How Do I Rest Without Feeling Unproductive?

Join Karen Cline, Holistic Biblical Counselor & Christian Health Coach from our Women Becoming Whole network as she explores a question so many women wrestle with: How do I rest without feeling unproductive? In this conversation, Karen shares why rest often feels uncomfortable when productivity becomes tied to our worth, and how God invites us into rhythms of rest that restore rather than diminish us. You’ll hear biblical insight and practical encouragement for releasing guilt, honoring your limits, and learning to rest with purpose.

If you or someone you know is ready for deeper biblical counseling or wellness support, you can learn more under our service tab at womenbecomingwhole.com.

How Do I Navigate My Current Reality When It's Not What I expected It To Be?

Join Jaime Jacinto, Founder, Biblical Counselor, and Wellness Practitioner of Women Becoming Whole as she explores a question many women face in unexpected seasons: How do I navigate my current reality when it’s not what I expected it to be? In this conversation, Jaime speaks to the grief, disorientation, and emotional tension that arise when life unfolds differently than planned. Through a biblical and holistic lens, she offers grounding wisdom and practical encouragement for meeting reality with honesty, faith, and compassion while learning how to move forward without rushing the process or losing hope.

If you or someone you know is ready for deeper biblical counseling or wellness support, you can learn more under our service tab at womenbecomingwhole.com.

How Do I Calm My Nervous System When I Feel Constantly Wired?

Join Rachel Dick, Holistic Biblical Counselor from our Women Becoming Whole network as she addresses a question many women are living with daily: How do I calm my nervous system when I feel constantly wired? In this conversation, Rachel explains why chronic stress can keep the body stuck in a heightened state and how biblical wisdom and gentle regulation practices support healing. She offers practical, compassionate guidance for calming the nervous system, restoring a sense of safety, and moving toward steadier rhythms of peace and presence.

If you or someone you know is ready for deeper biblical counseling or wellness support, you can learn more under our service tab at womenbecomingwhole.com.

Season's of Change...Are You Ready?

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.

Hebrews 13:8

LEARN

My favorite season of the year is Autumn. I love the cooler weather and beautiful hues of the last leaves clinging to their trees. I anticipate the family gatherings of sharing great food, love and thankful hearts. Don’t get me wrong, there are blessings in all the seasons of the year: Spring’s warm sunshine and flowers blooming, ripe watermelon and swim days in the Summer, and the stillness of Winter covered with a light blanket of snow. Nonetheless, Autumn is my most cherished time of year.

As much as I enjoy the changes of fall time, I really don’t like a lot of change in my personal day-to-day life. I like to have a schedule and a routine and to know what is going to happen next. My planner is my constant companion. However, life on this earth is constantly changing. People grow older, jobs come and go, children grow up, and favorite stores close down. Change is inevitable.

Recently, God has led my family and I through some major changes. In less than a two-year time span, we left our home church, had a major income loss, celebrated a son getting married, watched a brother-in-law of 43 years lose his battle with cancer, and dealt with some intense relational issues of extended family. To be honest, this season has been one of the toughest I have ever gone through. Some changes brought happy days such as celebrating the marriage of our youngest son and his beautiful bride. On the other hand, some changes ushered in dark days where I felt I could not go on. Depression and a heaviness settled in over my heart. I was broken and even began questioning the Lord and His goodness. I could not see the light at the end of the tunnel. But God never gave up on me.

One day, as I was journaling a desperate prayer to the Lord, like a small flicker of light, God reminded me that He was there, in control, still loved me, still had plans for me and HE WOULD NEVER CHANGE. At that moment, I felt hope in the midst of the valley. Peace flooded my heart as I read in Psalm 34 that God is near the broken hearted and crushed in Spirit. I remembered where it was that my Hope comes from. It was not in found in circumstances, success, health, or perfectly planned days. My hope came from the Lord who never changes. As I cried out to the Lord, opened up His Word and clung to His promises, the darkness slowly lifted. I began to make a conscious choice to get into His Word no matter how bad I felt, even if it was one verse at a time. Circumstances were the same, however, I made the choice, with God’s help, to believe HIS truth over my feelings.

During all the changes of that season, God was there. He never left me. He heard the cries of my broken heart when I couldn’t even speak a word. He saw my tears fall on my pillow as I tried to keep breathing. Our world was rapidly changing and I couldn’t keep up. It was in those darkest days, that God showed me hope that I could never muster up on my own. His love is unchanging and unfailing. His Word is an anchor as we are tossed about in this sea of life. When I can’t trust myself nor my feelings, I can trust in our steady, loving and unchanging God.

KNOW

Are you walking through a season of change? Are you struggling to find hope? I want to
encourage you to look to Jesus, the unchanging lover of your soul! He is still there and loves you deeply.

DO

Below are some ideas that may help as you travel through a dark season of the soul:

1. Make a daily list of what you are thankful to the Lord for. Even if you can only think of

one thing, it is a start.

2. Journal your feelings and prayers daily. Tell the Lord what hurts your heart and ask Him

bring healing and comfort by His Holy Spirit. Take time to listen for him to speak to your

heart.

3. Open God’s Word daily. Start in Psalm and write down any verses that stand out to you.

Write the verse on an index card and put where you will see often.

4. Reach out to a Christian friend, Pastor, or Biblical Counselor that can offer support and

prayer.

5. Get outside daily, even if only for 10 minutes. Breathe fresh air and feel the sunshine.

(or rain drops)

What is Biblical Stewardship?

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
– Colossians 3:23

LEARN

Stewarding the life God gave you to worship the God who made you….that’s really what biblical stewardship is all about. It’s not just about how you spend your money or manage your time. It’s about your whole life. Every thought you think, every decision you make, every gift you’ve been given, each one is an opportunity to honor God. At its core, stewardship is about living with intention, gratitude, and trust, knowing that your life isn’t your own, it’s a gift. And how you live it is your offering back to Him.

A biblical worldview of stewardship has been defined as:
"Utilizing and managing all resources God provides for the glory of God and the betterment of His creation."

A simpler way to think about it is this: stewardship is the act of worshipping with our lives. What we do, how we live, and how we care for what God has entrusted to us is both a reflection of our worship and our obedience.

Stewardship, when taken from a holistic perspective, encompasses every part of who you are, what you do, and how you do it. It is not about compartmentalizing your faith from your daily decisions. It is about honoring God in all things—from the way you parent or work to how you rest or nourish your body.

Let’s look at what it means to steward your life with purpose and faithfulness.

KNOW

1. Mind: Renew Your Thinking
   What we dwell on matters. Stewarding your mind begins with renewing it daily through Scripture, truth, and intentional focus.
   → Fill your thoughts with God’s Word and reject patterns of fear, comparison, or negativity.
   → Ask yourself regularly: Is what I am doing with my mind worshipful to God?

2. Body: Care for the Temple
   Your body is a vessel for God’s work. Stewardship means caring for it in a way that honors Him.
   → Choose rest, nourishment, and movement that promote health and strength.
   → Reflect: Is what I am doing with my body worshipful to God?

3. Time: Live with Intention
   Time is a limited and valuable resource. Living intentionally means aligning your schedule with what matters most to God.
   → Start your day with prayer and evaluate your calendar through the lens of purpose.
   → Ask: Is what I am doing with my time worshipful to God?

4. Relationships: Love Others Well
   Stewardship extends to how you show up in your relationships—with grace, truth, humility, and love.
   → Be fully present, seek reconciliation, and invest in people with eternal significance in mind.
   → Ask: Is what I am doing in my relationships worshipful to God?

5. Finances: Give More Than You Receive
   Money is a tool for kingdom work. Stewardship means giving generously, saving wisely, and spending with discernment.
   → Create habits of generosity and trust God as your Provider.
   → Reflect: Is what I am doing with my finances worshipful to God?

6. Career and Giftings: Invest What God Has Given You
   Your gifts and work matter to God. Whether you lead in the home, in ministry, or in the marketplace, your calling is holy.
   → Use your skills for the good of others and the glory of God.
   → Ask: Is what I am doing with my abilities worshipful to God?

7. Rest: Embrace Sabbath as Trust
   Rest is not laziness. It is a bold act of trust in God’s provision and goodness.
   → Build margin into your life. Choose moments of stillness and restoration.
   → Ask: Is what I am doing with my rest worshipful to God?

DO

A steward does not own; she cares for what belongs to another. When you steward your life well, you declare with your actions that your life belongs to God. You are not living for applause, success, or self-protection. You are living for Him.

In every decision, big or small, ask yourself this simple question:

Is what I am doing with my ________ worshipful to God?

This question can transform your habits, your home, and your heart.

In all things, honor God.

He has entrusted you with a life that is uniquely yours, full of purpose, gifts, and influence. Steward it well. Live it fully. Worship Him in every moment.

How Do I Not Let Anxiety Rule Me?

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God." - Philippians 4:6

LEARN

There are seasons in life when anxiety feels overwhelming—like a fog that settles over everything, making it hard to think clearly, rest peacefully, or feel grounded. For many, it’s not just an occasional worry but a persistent presence that disrupts daily life. As followers of Christ, we’re not called to pretend anxiety doesn’t exist. Instead, we’re invited to bring it honestly before God, casting our cares upon Him, knowing He cares deeply for us (1 Peter 5:7).

This act of surrender doesn’t eliminate anxiety in an instant, but it shifts the burden. It reminds us that we are not alone in our struggle. At the same time, we are called to steward the lives we’ve been given to tend to our spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being with intentionality and grace. Stewardship is an act of faith; it is saying, “This matters to God, so it matters to me.”

Let’s take a look at some practical, grace-filled ways to care for your whole self as you navigate the journey through anxiety. These resources are not quick fixes but steps toward greater calm, clarity, and connection with God.

KNOW

1. Prayer and Devotion: Dedicate time each day to connect with God through prayer and devotion. Express your fears, worries, and desires, seeking comfort and support from Him. Engage in reading and meditating on Scripture to deepen your spiritual connection.

2. Breathing Exercises: Deep breathing exercises have a profound impact on anxiety reduction. Practice diaphragmatic breathing by taking slow, deep breaths, filling your lungs completely, and exhaling slowly. This technique helps regulate your heart rate, activates the relaxation response, and promotes a sense of calm.

• Set aside dedicated time each day for prayer and devotion, offering your anxieties to God and seeking His peace.

• Practice deep breathing exercises whenever you feel anxiety creeping in, allowing yourself to find calm and relaxation.

3. Physical Activity: Engaging in regular physical exercise releases endorphins, improves mood, and reduces anxiety. Find activities you enjoy, such as walking, swimming, or dancing, and aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

• Engage in regular physical activity that you enjoy, aiming for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.

4. Mindfulness: Cultivate mindfulness by staying present in the moment, observing your thoughts and emotions without judgment. It helps you detach from anxious thoughts and find peace in the present experience. Utilize mindfulness apps or participate in mindfulness-based programs to cultivate this practice.

• Incorporate mindfulness into your daily life, paying attention to the present moment and cultivating a non-judgmental attitude.

5. Nutrition: Our diet plays a significant role in our mental health. Adopt a balanced and nutritious eating plan that supports overall well-being. Reduce or avoid caffeine, sugary foods, and processed snacks, as they can exacerbate anxiety symptoms. Instead, prioritize foods rich in nutrients that nourish your body and mind.

• Make conscious choices about your nutrition, opting for a balanced diet that supports your mental and physical well-being.

6. Adequate Sleep: Quality sleep is vital for mental health and anxiety management. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine, create a comfortable sleep environment, and limit screen time before bed. If sleep disturbances persist, consult a healthcare professional for further guidance.

• Prioritize quality sleep by establishing a bedtime routine and creating a restful sleep environment.

DO

Remember, seeking professional help is essential if anxiety persists or significantly interferes with your daily life. By practicing good stewardship of our spiritual, physical, and emotional health, we can experience God's peace and overcome anxiety.

What’s Holding You Back?

“Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.”

Ephesians 4:31-32

LEARN

When I was younger, I made decisions that profoundly affected my future. During those years, I was abused in many ways, and it shattered my heart into tiny little pieces. When I stopped running from God and turned back towards Him, there was much work that needed to be done. I not only had to learn how to live a different kind of life without my normal coping skills, but I had to heal from the inside out. During this time God took me through a journey of forgiveness towards myself and others. This was hard because many people had wronged me so deeply that I didn’t think I could trust anyone ever again. However, in the Bible, it says “For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you.” Matthew 6:14. And I knew I had A LOT that needed to be forgiven. So, I started walking through the process of forgiving those who had abused me, lied to me, stole from me, rejected me, etc.

What I learned is – forgiving someone is not saying that what they did was okay. It simply releases you from the burden of the hurt. What I found is as I released these people and these memories to God, the sting was taken away. As I forgave, I was able to now tell the stories without resentment or hurt in my heart. It was as if God was taking a magic eraser and erasing all the hurt that came with each painful experience. The more I forgave people, the freer I felt. I was being lifted from the burdens of resentment, bitterness, and pain as well as being forgiven myself for the wrongs I had committed along the way.

KNOW

Think of it like this – each time a painful experience happens, and you hold a grudge or choose not to forgive that person, your heart hardens. When our heart hardens, this causes us to not be able to love ourselves or others at our full capacity. It puts walls up around our hearts and causes us not to let people in. This can lead to a very miserable life. We were created for relationship with each other and when we have hardened our hearts, it makes it hard to have a close relationship with anyone, including God. And it’s a Biblical principle. In Hebrews 3:8, it tells us not to harden our hearts. This does not mean though that a person should just stay in an abusive relationship and keep forgiving the abuse. There are times when a relationship is toxic and/or abusive and it calls for a separation. Forgiveness of the events would come later in the healing process.

Forgiveness heals your heart so your heart can be whole again to receive God’s love, and the love of others, and allows you to be able to love others well.

DO

Here are some practical questions you can ask yourself to start processing any hurt you have from your past.

1. Ask God to show you anyone from your past that you need to forgive.

2. Ask Him where he was during that moment.

3. Ask Him if there is anything else you need to know about the memory.

4. Ask Him to heal your heart and help you to release this burden.

5. Pray this prayer, “Father, I choose to forgive _________ for _________. Help me

to release this burden once and for all. I realize this is not saying what ________

did to me was okay, but it says in your word that I must forgive so you can forgive

me. So, I forgive ___________ now in the name of Jesus.”

To grow in your relationship with God, find your identity and walk in your purpose - check out Rachel’s workbook called Unlocking Freedom. 

https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Freedom-Connection-Discover-identity/dp/B0CQV1HYJR/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=16G3B8WUP6UO7&keywords=unlocking+freedom&qid=1705007839&sprefix=unlocking+freedom+%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-4

Are you Desperate to be Healed From Your Pain?

LEARN

Are you desperate to be healed from your pain?

I get it. It is not a fun path to be in constant disorientation and discomfort, and because of the pain it is easy to go straight to fixing what you think is broken. It is easy to see suffering as a narrow doorway of only grief, and purposelessness where you long for the door to be opened so you can starting living your life again- living that life that is filled with filled with purpose and joy. In our pain we can struggle to see that both suffering & joy, and pain & purpose can be met together.

When we are in pain, we naturally want to do anything we can to get out of that suffering. However, before we begin to talk about how to fix our pain, we must first confront our pain. It is in confronting the reality of our pain that we are able to not be motivated by the fear of the pain but see it as something God is using for our good. This confronting of pain was something as a Biblical Counselor I knew, but as Jaime I did not fully understand until I had no choice but to face it.

I am just one person, and my experience is obviously different than yours, however I relate with those of you struggling with chronic illness and various forms and levels of pain. I relate to the uncertainty, frustration, and flat out difficulty in how it can effect EVERY part of your life. I suffer with you and for you in that, and more importantly God is also suffering with you. He suffers for us while also growing us closer to Him. He knows your pain, and is able to heal us yes, but more importantly save us. He is with us in our suffering and the first thing we have to do is recognize our suffering. We must fully confront where we are at so we can actively participate in the day God has set before us and the purpose He has for us even in our suffering.

KNOW

So however you are suffering today whether it is physical, mental, relational, financial, spiritual...

YOU ARE NOT ALONE and YOU ARE NOT WORTHLESS.

GOD LOVES YOU and HAS NOT ABANDONED YOU.

In fact it is quite the opposite, HE LOVES YOU.

DO

If you are dealing with illness or suffering of any kind and have not confronted the reality of the situation, I ask you to consider doing so. Consider what it might look like to see where you are and what you are navigating instead of only wishing it was gone, or waiting until it is fixed.

How might this shape your current experience in working through your pain? Then if you do decide to walk through your pain, I also recommend you open up to someone so you are not dealing with it alone.

And lastly, but most importantly, bring those burdens and feelings to God. God knows all and sees all. So even when we feel nobody else understands what we are going through, He does.

Are You In a Season of Waiting?

“ But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.”

Isaiah 40:31

LEARN

Seasons of waiting can be daunting especially when you have been praying for

something specific for years that you have yet to see come to pass. There are several

things that I have been praying for specifically for over ten years now and still... nothing.

There have been times when I got discouraged, got disappointed, and cried out to God

like, “Why have you forsaken me?” You may be laughing, and when I think about those

times now, I do too. But in those moments, there were real tears and real frustration.

But what I have learned is that even if God doesn’t answer all of my prayers and even if

some of the things I have been praying for for years never come to pass – He is still

good!

Psalm 136:1 “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever.”

In moments of frustration and disappointment I had to choose to praise Him anyway,

still my heart, and know that he is still good, regardless (Psalm 46:10).

KNOW

It can be hard to still trust God and know that he is good when your body is broken

down with chronic illness or you have no money in your bank account to pay your bills.

It can be hard to see God as a loving God when you feel like he has left you or

abandoned you because what you think should happen is not happening. It can be hard

when you have been waiting for your husband to come and you are still single, feeling

left behind. Or you are married, and your husband and you can’t stop fighting. There are

many hardships that we go through in life that can cause us to doubt God or think He is

not for us. However, the opposite is true. He is with us, always. He is for us and not

against us. Even in the midst of chaos and heartache, He is still GOOD!

DO

What can you do in the seasons of discouragement?

 Get out of the negative spiral by praising Him anyway and shifting to gratitude

 Find scriptures and meditate on the goodness of God

 Remember all the good things that He has done for you

 Sing praise music

 Dance unto the Lord

Anxiety and gratitude cannot take up the same space in the brain at the same time. And

when we are in moments of discouragement – this can turn into anxiousness, because

ultimately, we are trying to figure out a plan to make it happen ourselves.

Shift from the negative mindset to the positive by saying “thank you God that I have my

life. I have food in my belly, clothes on my back, and a roof over my head.” Add

whatever else comes to mind. The more we can stay in gratitude, the more those

negative thought patterns lose control in our lives. This is not only Biblically but it is

scientific as well!

God’s ways are higher than ours and for whatever reason in your season of waiting -

God has said it is not time yet. So instead of complaining and working yourself up into a

spirit of depression - Trust that he knows best, and, in His timing, everything will be

made perfect.

To grow in your relationship with God, find your identity and walk in your purpose - check out Rachel’s workbook called Unlocking Freedom. 

https://www.amazon.com/Unlocking-Freedom-Connection-Discover-identity/dp/B0CQV1HYJR/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?crid=16G3B8WUP6UO7&keywords=unlocking+freedom&qid=1705007839&sprefix=unlocking+freedom+%2Caps%2C164&sr=8-4

You can also connect with Rachel through her website at www.daretolivefree.net where she offers holistic biblical counseling.

How Do I Create Biblical Routines and Rhythms for 2024?

To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven."
- Ecclesiastes 3:1 (ESV)

LEARN

As we step into 2024, the opportunity to craft purposeful living through routines rooted in biblical principles becomes even more significant. The Bible consistently echoes the importance of seasons and times, inviting us to align our daily rhythms with divine principles. Consider adopting biblical rhythms not just for your day but as a guiding force for your entire journey in 2024. The Scriptures reveal the wisdom in recognizing the cycles of planting and harvesting, highlighting the delicate balance between work and rest. Drawing inspiration from these patterns, you can intentionally design routines that not only foster balance but also resonate with a deeper understanding of your unique purpose in this new year.

Think about how creating biblical rhythms into your daily life is not just about keeping a goal, but living purposefully knowing who you are and what your mission on this earth is. Living a life with intention will change the way you manage your time on a daily basis and shape your long-term aspirations.

KNOW

Establishing biblical rhythms isn't a one-size-fits-all endeavor; it's about understanding your priorities, seeking God's guidance, and aligning your daily activities with your core values. Embrace the realization that these rhythms aren't rigid schedules; they're flexible frameworks designed to honor God and contribute to your overall well-being.

Recognize the importance of prioritizing moments with God in your daily routine. Whether through prayer, meditation, or dedicated Scripture reading, incorporating these spiritual connections at the start of your day can set a transformative tone for all of the activities to follow. Understanding your values and consciously aligning your routines with them brings clarity to your actions and decisions, making your journey uniquely yours.

Moreover, reflect on how this alignment can influence your relationships, work, and personal growth. By weaving biblical principles into the fabric of your daily life, you're not just gaining direction; you're finding enduring satisfaction in authentically living out your values. This holistic approach to establishing biblical rhythms empowers you to navigate life's complexities with a centered and purposeful mindset, creating a life that resonates with your individual journey.

DO

• Devotions: Set aside time in your day to have intentional time spent in prayer and reading Scripture. Ideally setting aside a quiet moment to seek God's guidance, express gratitude, and center your thoughts on Him before you begin your tasks can help you remember to focus your minutes and days on honoring the Lord in all you do.

• Work and Rest Rhythms: Embrace the biblical concept of six days of work and one day of rest. Establish a rhythm of productivity during workdays and intentionally observe a day of rest, focusing on spiritual, mental, and physical rejuvenation.

• Family Time: Prioritize quality time with family. Establish routines for family meals, shared activities, and intentional conversations. These rhythms strengthen family bonds and create a sense of unity.

• Sabbath Reflection: Designate time for Sabbath reflection. Whether it's a weekly or monthly practice, use this time to assess your spiritual, emotional, and physical well-being. Consider areas for growth and celebrate achievements.

• Seasonal Reflection: Align your rhythms with the changing seasons. As Ecclesiastes notes, there's a season for everything. Use the transitions between seasons to reflect on the past, set goals for the future, and adjust your rhythms accordingly.

• Generosity Rhythms: Integrate rhythms of generosity into your life. Set aside time and resources for charitable acts, supporting others in need, and contributing to the well-being of your community.

• Digital Detox Rhythms: Establish rhythms for disconnecting from technology. Designate specific times for digital detox, allowing yourself to unplug and focus on real-life interactions, quiet reflection, and connection with God.

• Gratitude Practices: Cultivate a rhythm of gratitude. Daily, express gratitude for blessings, both big and small. This practice fosters a positive mindset and an awareness of God's goodness in your life.

• Learning Rhythms: Dedicate time to ongoing learning and spiritual growth. Whether through reading, attending classes, or participating in discussions, integrate rhythms that nurture intellectual and spiritual development.

• Evening Reflection: Conclude your day with an evening reflection. Review the events of the day, express gratitude, and seek God's guidance for the days ahead. This rhythm helps bring closure to the day and prepares you for restful sleep.

Crafting biblical rhythms is a dynamic and personal process. Adapt these suggestions to fit your unique circumstances and preferences, allowing God's Word to guide your daily, weekly, and yearly rhythms. By intentionally aligning your life with biblical principles, you embark on a journey of purposeful living that honors God and brings fulfillment to your soul.

If you are looking for more support on transforming your daily rhythms along with help for living more into the giftings and vocation the Lord has for you, you can learn more about my 30 Day Life Pathway Program!

What Does Hope Look Like in 2022?

“I pray also also for those who will believe in me through their (the disciples) message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me. I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me. Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the world. Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know that you have sent me. I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them.”
-John 17:20-25

LEARN

In 2022 it is easy to set a new normal of ANXIETY instead of HOPE. But we as Christians need not fear. Christ loved us so much that he laid His life down in obedience to the Father, and one of the often forgotten things to note is what he prays about before being nailed on the cross. One of the things he prays for is US. The Son of God, petitions for us as the perfect embodiment of love. The Word tells us that even while we were sinners Christ died for us, and not only that, He also fervently prayed for us before his death. He knows what it is like to be in the world and knows what we need in order to have HOPE. We need Him- and lucky for us Jesus gave Himself up for us to allow us the grace and freedom we have!

We get the immense privilege of demonstrating to the world what joy and gladness look like apart from our circumstances. Hope in the midst of chaos doesn’t seem natural, because it isn’t! Our hope, peace, joy, and assurance are supernaturally given to us by the Holy Spirit through Christ’s sacrifice! So let us battle within our minds to form habits that are pleasing to God, ushered by the Holy Spirit. Let us reveal His truth, not only for our own sakes but for those who do not know the truth and are watching us.

KNOW

Remembering Jesus’ sacrifice on the cross on our behalf in order to give us a future and a hope is so humbling and also in the midst of anxious thoughts, so reassuring. The love of the triune God is with us, and is helping us. It is Christ’s love that advocates for peace in our hearts and peace amongst our brothers and sisters. We are never alone, we are always loved, and we are given a future and a HOPE in Christ. 🙏 ❤️

DO

Who can you share this truth with in the final months of 2022?

Do You Need Spiritual First-Aid?

The heart is deceitful above all things,
and desperately sick;
who can understand it?
“I the Lord search the heart
and test the mind, to give every man according to his ways,
according to the fruit of his deeds.”

Jeremiah 17:9-10

LEARN

Growing up I was a klutz. I seemed to always have a broken bone, stubbed toe, or would run into people on the regular. As much as I don’t like to admit it I can be quite clumsy and aloof at times. It is a running joke in my family that my stepdad and I are like magnets because growing up we would always run into each other in the kitchen- and speaking of the kitchen, my Mom’s glassware seemed to get the brunt of my clumsiness over the years! Now as a married woman, I purchase my glassware based on how thick the glass looks in case I drop it or bang it against the kitchen sink it at least has a fighting chance.  

Maybe you aren’t accident prone like I am PHYSICALLY speaking but if you think about it, we are all accident prone SPIRITUALLY speaking. All of humanity is in a fallen state, and we all are sinners. Spiritually speaking, we trip and fall often, yet many of us go on as if we are somehow immune from our clumsiness. We purchase the thin glassware, pridefully believing that we have nothing to worry about, only to come home and find it already broken and our hands bleeding from the cuts as we try to quickly pick up the broken glass before anyone sees us. These open wounds we have are hidden due to pride, insecurity, shame, and a false belief about God and His grace.

I am here to attest to you today that if you try to hide your spiritual wounds they will start to get infected, and not the kind that you can just put some ointment on and call it a day- these infections go deep, and can only be helped by seeking the correct medical care.

So, if you are hiding some spiritual wounds today, it is a good time to take note because in this action you are actually revealing something about your heart. Generally speaking your heart is saying something in the form of “when I sin it is best to ignore it and move on instead of confront it, ask for forgiveness, and seek God to come bandage the wounds. God is ashamed of me, and if I go to Him with this mess he will just be angry and disappointed in me. He must be, because I am angry and disappointed in myself. All I am is a failure, and nobody loves failures.”

KNOW

The blessing of God is that He sees our self-inflicted wounds and tells us to show them to Him. His whole reasoning for Jesus dying for us is so that we would be freed from having to hide our wounds. How sad would it be for us to inevitably kill ourselves from not seeking proper treatment because we didn’t think the doctor would want to help us. Christ not only is our healer, he gives us the freedom to come to him not matter the reason. He won’t turn us down, and he will never withhold love from His children. 

DO

Do you take your spiritual health seriously? Are you willing to show Christ your scars and ask for help?

Our state is sinful and fallen so we need to recognize each day that we have to check on the state of our heart. So today, take your spiritual blood pressure to see if you are veering into an unhealthy zone and fight to heal your heart so it can continue to be molded more into Christlikeness. 

Is Waiting a Gift or a Curse?

Psalm 130:5 “I wait for the LORD, my whole being waits, and in his word I put my hope”

LEARN

I hate to wait. Wait in line. Wait for mail. Wait for a text back. As a society we are so accustomed to the “instant” whatever of what we want or perceive we need. Hello, instant pots! The slow cooker’s fast and simple cousin. However, as I have sat in several seasons of wait in my life I have realized two things. 

1. The season of wait is precious to the LORD and it can be a gift he gives us. I remember what seemed like long days of infertility as month after month the pregnancy tests came back negative for 3 years. Over 36 times feeling rejection from a simple little stick. The doctors didn’t have answers. The holistic professionals said relax. And as we hoped to one day be parents it seemed everyone around us was popping out kids and getting pregnant so quickly. Not easy for the girl who doesn’t like to wait! I had a sweet friend and mentor who calmly told me one day, “Just wait. Trust his timing.” While God’s timing has rarely ever been mine, His has always been the best timing. For all of the parents out there, you know having kids is not easy. While it was worth the wait, it is hard. God was teaching me things about him and myself before I had kids I could only learn and discover in the wait.

1. A place of wait can also be a gift to God. We often hear about worship and honoring God, but what about waiting on him? Patiently every day with our quiet trust telling ourselves and Him, “I trust you. I trust your plan. Your ways are not my ways and your plans are not my plans. Yet, I will trust your timing, not mine.” I love this verse in Psalm 130 that says “my whole being waits.” My mind finds rest because he is in control of the situation. My body finds comfort because he formed me in my mother’s womb. My spirit knows he had plans for me before the formation of the world. 

KNOW

Waiting for most will never be easy this side of heaven. Focusing on His word, worshiping and praying will bring comfort and “a peace that surpasses all understanding,” as Paul reminds us in Philippians. It is not an easy road, but worth it. Since hoping 8 years ago for a baby have I grown better and more patient in waiting? My husband would probably answer no! The waiting hasn’t gotten any easier, but it does get sweeter. Things don’t always work out like I hoped, but His nearness and what I can learn and where I have grown after a season of wait has me trusting Him even more. 

DO

• Has there been a waiting period that felt especially hard or long for you? Is there a verse or scripture passage or even a worship song that brought you comfort during that time? Share it with a friend or someone else in a similar situation. Having a community during a waiting period is so precious and helpful. 

• Can you recall a friend or even a person in the Bible you can point to that “waited well”? What did they do that stands out to you? How did they cope?

• If you are currently in a season of wait, hang in there! Pray a simple prayer “gifting” your wait to God. Tell Him you are grateful for this time and for Him to show you what you can learn or need to see while you wait. Ask him to draw near to you and He promises us He will! (James 4:8)

Where do I Start in Dealing With Stress?

“A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.” Proverbs 17:22

LEARN

Do you have chronic inflammation in your body, or constant restlessness in your soul? Most of us have some sort of inflammation or stress in our bodies and minds. As God created us as whole beings with bodies and souls it is important for us to look at every area of our lives that can be contributing to bettering or worsening our health in regards to stress! Understanding our stress allows us to be more authentic in our relationship with the Lord, others and ourselves.

KNOW

Below are the areas you can examine when desiring to work through stress in your life from a holistic perspective. We recommend you take an afternoon and journal a paragraph in each area how you feel you are doing in each category, and 1 thing you would like to work on.

Spiritual Health
Emotional Health
Physical Health
Digestive Health
Social Health
Detoxification
Nutrition
Sleep

DO

We have a few ways we are able to help you figure out how to tackle all the areas listed above!

1. Biblical Counseling- our counseling uses a whole health approach that helps women honor God with their bodies and souls.
2. Stress Mapping Intensive: Our stress mapping intensive gets to the root of your stress and helps organize all of your stressors in a way where you can concretely start to make steps away from stress and into peace.
3. Nourished: A 5 week (online) study for women on food, fitness, and identity as it relates to the fruits of the spirit.

And……
For those of you who are desiring to help other women in a more holistic way, consider doing our Holistic Biblical Counseling Certification or Christian Health Mentor Certification- for women leaders desiring to grow and teach other women about Christ-centered health and wholeness.

What Can We Learn From Anxiety?

“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”
Matthew 11:28-29

LEARN

As a biblical counselor I find many women come for help with their anxiety in order to find a cure. This makes sense as the desire in counseling would be to work through issues in your life, and there are many practical tools that can help alleviate anxiety that should be utilized- however, there will always be a piece of our anxiety that may not have a cure this side of eternity. It is in this piece of the anxiety puzzle that I encourage women to view anxiety as something we see as a daily battle, and to not expect to perfectly rid ourselves of the worries of life.

Instead of focusing on getting over our anxiety (which often times leads to more anxiety) our focus should be on working in our anxiety. In this understanding, our hope is not focused on fixing our anxiety as our main goal, but fixing our eyes on Christ. When we do this even in the midst of anxiety we can learn what it is like to suffer well, and not be surprised if we can’t find a quick fix for our worries. So, instead of rising above our anxiety we can rise within our anxiety. We can have small victories, while recognizing our ultimate victory has already been accomplished in Christ.

In an attempt to rid ourselves of anxiety we forget that our anxiety is an opportunity to turn to God and recognize our shortcomings as humans. It is in the midst of anxiety that God promises us a hope and a future- one that is not dependent on our own abilities. So don’t lose heart. God is with you, he cares about you, he has not abandoned you, and he is desiring for you go to him with your worries.

KNOW

Anxiety is inevitable in our world because of the fall. We are in the midst of chaos, confusion, pain, suffering, sin, loss, sickness, and sorrow. In this life your anxieties may never fully go away, and you may feel overwhelmed or powerless to stop your anxiety but DON’T FORGET - GOD ISN’T OVERWHELMED. In fact he is the opposite. He is in control, caring, present, and available to you. Just because God hasn’t rid you of anxiety doesn’t mean he can’t, or that he is not with you, or that you have failed God as a Christ follower. So don’t lose sight that however you feel doesn’t take away from God’s power and the ultimate victory we have been promised (check out the book of Job for further studying on this). As you can see there is a lot we can learn about ourselves and God because of anxiety, but the biggest thing we can learn is to let go of our expectations of ourselves and lean more on God.

DO

One of the resources we have available to help you work through your fears is our book Gospel Activities for Women: Anxiety Edition. This book is a resource for women with practical exercises that deal with anxiety from a biblical and whole person approach. For other resources on anxiety you can also check out our RECOMMENDED RESOURCES tab! And lastly one of my favorite, short and sweet encouragements for anxiety is a resource from Bob Kelleman titled Anxiety: Anatomy & Cure.

Forest Syrup for Christmas

“Set your mind on things that are above, not on things that are on earth. “
Colossians 3:2

LEARN

I love the forest. Wondering through a fairyland of ferns and moss is my idea of a perfect day. It’s a known fact in our home that for any holiday, I will always be thrilled with receiving pinecones.  Or really any cone from the many variety of conifer trees we have in North America. I am also smitten with acorns as well as seashells due to my love of Oak trees and the ocean. But it’s those majestic conifers that definitely have my heart. Maybe because of growing up near the giant Sequoias, Hemlock and Spruces in Central California they remind me of home or the Pines I remember being surrounded by when I first gave my life over to the Lord. It could possibly be the coastal Redwood trees I lived nearby when I fell in love with and married my husband. 

For whatever the reason may be I have a deep appreciation for those beautiful ancient trees that remove my eyes away from all that is happening around me and transfer my gaze right up into the heavens. In those moments I can’t help but be reminded of Colossians 3:2, set your mind on things above. It may just be me being sentimental but when I walk amongst those towering trees I feel like they were made for that very purpose. To draw my eyes in wonder away from this earth and up to the heavens to remind me of my creator, whom my heart and mind should always be set upon.  And the only one who can bring the peace that is so needed within this broken world. What a wonderful gift our Lord gave us in his creation. That it can draw us closer in worship to him. And what a wonderful gift that many of the conifer trees that fill me with awe and that we all love to fill our homes with during the Holiday season are actually also both edible and medicinal!

KNOW

The use of conifer trees for medicinal purposes can be traced as far back as the Middle Ages and it is well known that the Indigenous people of North America used the needles, bark and sap of conifer trees in a variety of ways and passed this knowledge on to the early settlers.  I have enjoyed foraging then creating salves, cleaning products & even cookies from the forest and woods.

 A cup of tea made from the freshly gathered tips of Redwood or Pine can be calming as well as healing. High in Vitamin C and useful for coughs where phlegm is present, chest congestion or for soothing a dry scratchy throat, a honey based syrup made with Pine (or even Fir, Hemlock or Spruce) is a wonderful natural remedy to have on hand during the winter.  And for those who may wish to use Pine in a more fun and festive way can instead make a simple syrup with Pine needles and sugar to add to cocktails or to create a delicious homemade soda…a very fun treat! It should be noted that either of these variations would make a wonderful homemade holiday or hostess gift! 

DO

Forest Syrup Two Ways

Pine & Honey: 

1 c pine needles

1/2 c honey

1 c water

Pine & Sugar:

1 c pine needles

1 c sugar

1 c water

Directions:

For both variations in a medium pot add water and bring to a boil. Add pine needles, turn off pot, cover and let sit until the water has completely cooled or as long as over night. Depending on how strong you want the flavor. Once it has cooled completely strain the water to remove the pine needles. Add the water back into the pot with the sweetener of your choice and heat until the sweetener has dissolved.  Keep refrigerated, for 2-4weeks.

Uses:

Both varieties are delicious and make wonderful additions to holiday cocktails & mocktails. 

For homemade soda- Add 2-3 Tbsp. of either variety to a 12oz glass and fill the rest with sparkling water 

As a honey cough syrup:

- 1Tbsp every 2 hours for a cough soar throat or chest congestion (ages 2 & up)

*Keeping in mind that although foraging is both fun and at the moment very popular it’s necessary to use precaution and be very informed before you go. Something to note is that any tree in the Yew family is highly toxic and should be avoided and also that women who are pregnant should not consume Pine.  So making sure you can properly identify trees in your area is very important. And please do not use any needles from a tree you purchased at a Christmas tree lot! 

A cup of Chai in the Season of Gratitude

And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and
with all your soul and with all your mind.”
Matthew 22:37

LEARN

As seashell collecting and sunburned shoulders transition to pumpkin filled doorways and cozy knitted scarves I will get out the banner that I needle felted the word Gratitude on many years ago, and hang it above a large window in our living room. It serves as a yearly reminder of my desire during this season to refocus my heart and my mind to be filled with gratitude for all that Christ has done and continues to do within and around me. Just as the season brings to mind memories of apple orchards and evenings by the fire my hope in this season is to intentionally draw nearer to Christ with thanksgiving in my heart. Seeing this banner throughout the day is such a practical reminder to me that God is always so good. And he is always worthy of our praise.

Yet, the constant information, strife and confusion we are bombarded with in our world can leave our minds and our bodies in a heightened state of stress and anxiety. When we experience long term levels of stress our bodies over time become taxed and depleted leaving us physically and mentally exhausted. In this state we can easily develop a weakened immune system, which can lead down the road to serious illness. It can be so easy in our fast paced world for us to ignore our body’s signs of distress and to continue pushing forward. As followers of Christ we are called to take care of our bodies well and to actively use our mind and body in service to him. But, if we do not take the time to care appropriately for ourselves we can become unable to mentally and spiritually focus on and honor Christ, even becoming unable to serve him in the ways in which he has called us to.

KNOW

Spending daily time in the word, meditating on the scriptures and intentionally focusing my heart on being filled with gratitude quiets my mind and lessons any anxiety and stress. As a part of a holistic wellness lifestyle I know the necessity of also maintaining a diet of nourishing nutrient dense foods and herbal remedies that will care for and strengthen my body. As an Herbalist there are many ways in which I use the plants that God has provided for us as methods of maintaining and strengthening the health of my family and myself. By far my favorite of all the herbal remedies I make is definitely Chai Tea! Rooted in India, Chai or Masala Chai is a warming, nourishing, soothing and immune boosting drink traditionally made with spice infused black tea, milk and sweetener. This spicy drink is helpful in preventing colds and flu, to relieve inflammation and to promote healthy digestion. Not to forget it is also delicious!

Usually year round but especially in these months leading up to winter I brew a large batch weekly and keep it handy in my refrigerator to make a daily cup of tea. Using the traditional spices and sweetened with honey I prefer mine with homemade almond milk and because I live in Southern California over ice until at least November. Along with the usual ingredients during this time of year I will add Astragalus, used in traditional Chinese Medicine it adds additional immune support, improves energy, strengthens the adrenals and has been known to improve heart function, kidneys and the liver. For those who wish to avoid caffeine the black tea can either be substituted with Red Rooibos or completely omitted. The recipe below is for a small batch, around three to four cups. I triple the recipe to have a weeks supply for our family. Hoping this season you will be filled with gratitude for the love and work of Christ, find time to slow down and enjoy a nourishing cup of tea!

DO

IMMUNE BOOSTING CHAI TEA RECIPE

Ingredients:

1 Tbsp. Cardamom Pods
1 Tbsp. Whole Allspice 1 Tbsp.
Dried Astragalus Root
2 Tsp. Anise Seeds
2 Tsp. Whole Cloves
2 Tsp. Fennel Seeds
2 Tsp. Whole Black Peppercorn
2 Cinnamon Sticks
1-2 Inches Fresh Ginger Root
4 Tsp. loose leaf or 4 Black or Rooibos Tea Bags
4 Tbsp.
Honey 2 c.
Water 1.

Directions:
1. In a medium pot place cinnamon sticks and ginger root.
2. Grind all remaining spices with a mortar and pestle and add to the pot.
3. Add water and bring to a boil.
4. Turn stove down to a simmer, cover the pot and leave for 10 minutes.
5. Add the tea, return to a boil, turn off stove and let it sit another 10 minutes.
6. Strain (making sure your strainer is thin enough to catch the spices)
7. Add honey and once cool keep in the fridge.
**To make a cup of tea heat on the stove 1/3-1/2c. Concentrate to 1c. Milk or place both ingredients in a cup over ice…however you want to enjoy your tea!

What Do We Do With All of Our Concerns

“The LORD is my light and my salvation— whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid?” Psalm 27:1

LEARN

When I see this scripture I think not only who shall I fear but what shall I fear? 2020 has definitely brought it’s fair share of concerns. One of the difficult things to realize within our fallen world is that there are always going to be things we are concerned about. The Bible makes that pretty clear. Another thing it is clear about is what we do with our concerns and how we are called to not allow them to turn into worry. When a valid concern over something turns into worry we are falling into anxiety. We are no longer trusting that God is good and His plan is something we can have hope in no matter the circumstances. In the midst of genuine concerns this seems impossible, but apparently it is possible because that is exactly what God desires of us as He has let us know in His Word. The hard part is in figuring out how we are to go about not worrying. So here is the blunt answer. Devotion. We usually think not being anxious is an emotional problem, but it stems from lack of devotion. Are we devoted to believing the Bible over our own thoughts? Are we devoted towards making God our ultimate fear or our circumstances?

This obviously is a simplified answer to a multifaceted problem, but it should always be where we start!

KNOW

Instead of allowing worry to consume us let us be a light to the world by being devoted followers of Christ. Let us replace worry with thanksgiving, prayer, and hope not because we always feel like it but because we are told it is what is best for us. Let us continue to serve when necessary, and share the Gospel at all times from an understanding of our amazing Lord and His love for us.

DO

Here are some good questions to ask yourself to see if your valid concerns have turned into sinful worry..
1. Are you bringing God your concerns or trying to fix them on your own?
2. Are your thoughts more focused on the what if’s of the future over being present where God has you today?
3. Are you neglecting responsibilities because of your concern?

What Does Jesus Look Like Through the Eyes of a Toddler?

Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good. Romans 8:28

But blessed is the one who trusts in the Lord, whose confidence is in him. Jeremiah 17:7

LEARN

Let me preface this blog post by saying you never know how much you can learn from a two year old! You think they are supposed to learn from you, and ideally they do, but boy oh boy can they teach you a lot about life too! I nannied for three years in college, and one summer I lived with the family I nannied for. I could probably write a whole blog post about all the things that sweet toddler taught me that summer, but instead I wanted to share how reading books with her taught me a little more about the heart of Jesus.

Here are some things I’ve noticed about reading books with a two year old. First of all, they rarely want to stay on the page you are supposed to be reading and would rather go back to previous pages, or jump ahead to future pages. Sometimes, when they try to “help” you turn the page, they take a big handful of pages and practically skip to the end of the book. They also want to read the story over and over, sometimes even pretending they have no idea what’s going to happen on the next page, when you know they already have it memorized!

Finally, you definitely cannot ignore the insane amount of times a two year old asks the question “Why?” when reading a simple picture book. Why did she do that? Why did he say that? Why are they wearing that? Why is it yellow? Why is it big, small, short, tall? You name it, they ask it! However, something I found to be particularly interesting is the fact that oftentimes they ask why about all the tiny details that have no relevance to the story. I’ve noticed that these irrelevant whys can lead them to miss the whole point of the story. One night in particular, when I will admit I got a little tired of all the whys, I realized this is likely very similar to the way God feels. In this moment I became overly aware of how many times I ask God why.

First let me pause to say I do not think God gets tired of us asking why the way we might get tired of a two year old asking why. I do not believe He gets annoyed with us, but instead honors our curiosity and our desire to understand and experience Him on a deeper level. He truly wants us to know Him, so I am confident He welcomes any opportunity to commune with us and respond to our questions, worries, fears, doubts, etc.

Therefore, I do not believe I am wrong for constantly wanting to ask God why things happen the way they do (both the good and bad things). Rather, I think the short, beautiful moments I spent reading with my tiny roommate began to open my eyes to the way Jesus wants me to live. When a two year old can’t get over the color of the mommy’s dress three pages back, or the size of the dog’s ears two pages ahead, I sit there and feel slightly frustrated, wishing she would understand what the story is trying to teach her (or at least let me stay on the right page long enough to finish reading all the words).

Maybe, just maybe, this is how Jesus feels about me, about all of us. Maybe He wants us to know that if we just stay on today’s page, the here and now, we will start to see the full picture of His movement in our lives. He doesn’t want us to stay stuck a few pages back in our story when He is ready to unveil the future pages He has prepared for us. Likewise, He doesn’t want us to skip so far into the future that we miss out on everything He has to offer in the day-to-day (which always seems to be a whole lot more than I expect… He definitely never fails to exceed all of my expectations!).

I know God has already written my story. He placed me in this world to fulfill a unique purpose crafted perfectly for me, just as I am certain He has done the same for you. However, when I obsess over all the whys and beg Him to reveal the reason and meaning behind everything that happens in my life, He probably sighs a little bit. Not because He is disappointed in me, but because He so desperately wants me to see what He sees. He wants me to be free to live in the moment, confidently acknowledging His sovereignty over my past, present, and future. Something tells me the answers are right there in front of me, and that maybe I’m asking why about all the insignificant details. Meanwhile, Jesus is so excited for me to fully embrace what He has in store for me today, right now.

KNOW

God sees you right where you are, just as you are. He sees your past and your future, but He has placed you in your present for a reason, to glorify Him. We are called only to trust and follow – trust the Lord to turn the pages when it is time and follow Him with confidence that He will work all things together for your good.

DO

• Meditate on the scripture verses above. Spend time in the word, prayerfully asking God to reveal His trustworthiness to you.

• Can you think of a time when you may have gotten ahead of God rather than staying present in the things He was calling you to? What was that like? How were you able to center yourself back toward the present moment with Him?

• Commit to spending 5 minutes before bed each night this week to reflect on where God was in your life that day, helping remind you of His presence and movement in your present moment.

How to Glorify God with Your Body?

Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (ESV)

LEARN

As Christians, we are called to love, serve, and honor God. When thinking about the practicality of this, we often think about what our relationship with God looks like and how we are serving those around us. 

An important topic that occasionally slips under the radar is how we love, serve, and honor God with our bodies. Our bodies are a blessing from God and it is important for us to take care of them. It is easier for us to serve others and honor God when our bodies are functioning properly. It is our responsibility to be good stewards of the body God has provided us with (apart from things beyond our control such as illness and accidents). 

KNOW

Our intentions for anything we do, including taking care of our bodies, should be to glorify God. If our intentions for physically caring for ourselves is to look or feel good, we must take a step back and remember that our bodies are meant to be a temple for God.

About six months ago, I was diagnosed with certain food sensitivities: dairy, gluten, eggs, cocoa, tarragon, brewers yeast, and bakers yeast. Luckily, my sensitivity is not enough to send me into anaphylactic shock, but it is enough to give me hives and rashes all over my arms and legs. When I first found this out, I did not take it very seriously. I thought to myself “I’ve been eating these foods my whole life, it can’t be that bad.” 

For a few months, I continued eating everything I wasn’t supposed to and my body was paying for it. By doing this, I was telling God that my own satisfaction through eating whatever I wanted was more important than the temple (i.e., my body) he has provided for me. I was stubborn and didn’t want to be inconvenienced. It took some time, but I finally realized that, by eating whatever I wanted, I was not honoring God. Once I changed my mindset and my focus was to honor God through everything I do, it got easier to stay away from those foods. Don’t get me wrong, it is still a daily struggle to avoid all of these things (especially cocoa - no chocolate!) but I find peace knowing that I am now feeding my body foods that provide nourishment and that I am able to honor God through this.

DO

Be in the Right Mindset

Take a moment and meditate on why you are taking care of your body. Are you trying to live a healthier life in pursuit of honoring God? First and foremost, we should be honoring God with our bodies and everything we do with them. As 1 Corinthians 10:31 says “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” Keep this verse in mind during the day as you are pursuing a healthier lifestyle.

Nourish NOT Punish

In today’s culture, it is easy to become obsessed with health and fitness. It is easy to over-work your body and restrict your calories when your mind is in the wrong space  Be mindful about what you are putting in your body. Many people think that eating a certain amount of calories or meals a day can lead to a healthy lifestyle. I want to challenge you to take a look at what you are actually putting into your body. Answer this: would you put diesel gas in a car that runs on regular gas? The answer would (hopefully) be no. Just because it is gas does not mean that is good for the car. In fact, putting diesel gas into a car that does not need it is harmful to the engine. This is the same for your body. Putting “food” into your body (or restricting food) is not enough to be healthy. We need to be fueling ourselves with foods that are nutritious. Eat when you are hungry but be mindful about what you are choosing to eat.

Listen to Your Body

God created our bodies to send us signals all the time. It tells us when we are hungry, tired, sick, and so on. One thing that we do not often pay attention to is our bodies response to food. Take a second to think about this. Some common symptoms of food intolerances/allergies include: bloating, fatigue, rashes (eczema), and upset stomach. Do you notice any of these symptoms after you eat? If you are not sure if you react to anything, keeping a food journal can be helpful. Jot down what you eat and how your body feels throughout the day. If you notice that you get an upset stomach every time you eat dairy, it may be time to reconsider the amount of dairy in your diet. 

Be Weary of Toxins

Unfortunately, there are so many toxins in our food and beauty products. Just because something is sold at a store does not mean it is safe for your body. Do your research and make easy, practical shifts in the type of food and products you buy. Read the ingredients list before you buy it! This goes for both food and household/beauty products. If you don’t recognize an ingredient, look it up or don’t buy it at all!

Move

Many jobs today involve sitting at a desk for 8 hours and getting up for the occasional snack or bathroom break. The lack of movement throughout the day can be so detrimental to our bodies! Moving gets our heart beating and blood flowing. This can be as simple as taking a walk around your neighborhood. Try to get in at least 30 minutes of simple movement a day.