food for soul - april 2015
DESCRIPTION
APRIL EDITIONTRANSCRIPT
April 2015
Awakens our faith…with a
A Write… Kind of Heart
Resurrection on the
Road
Pg. 5
A Write Kind of Heart
Pg. 6-7
Measure
Pg. 10
Burn the Burgers…Not
the Bridges
Pg. 13-15
Stop Dieting!
Pg. 16-17
The Real Beauty
Pg. 18
Grow on Purpose
Pg. 20-21
Got Cake?
Pg. 35
No. 6
M A G A Z I N E
2
Is a menu of inspirational articles, and information to encourage a deliberate lifestyle
physically, emotionally, but most important spiritually. Food For Soul serves up recipes for
the kitchen, as well as for life! The contributing writers come from all different
backgrounds, professions, and experiences that contribute much inspiration! We
currently have over 180,000 viewers via internet.
The magazine is a ministry tool to raise funds both globally and locally for causes such as,
WATER FOR LIFE, STAR OF HOPE MISSIONS, FAMILIES FEEDING FAMILIES, PREGNANCY HELP
CENTERS, Non-kill pet shelters, T.E.A.M., CitImpact, and the like.
We sponsor advertising for these organizations to encourage giving, and inspire
communities to get involved as we spread the gospel.
Our goal is to one day open up a crisis center that provides training, and resources for
women of domestic abuse. It will be staffed with professionals to teach skills for a variety
of jobs so that these women can support themselves and their children and be free from
welfare and being forced to live in dangerous conditions and lifestyles. The center will
include volunteer counselors for both the women and children to help mend from abuse.
There will be regular study classes offered to encourage a continued walk in Christ to
enable them to in turn help others. We pray to have a huge selection of professional
clothing to give these women starting out in their job search.
We pray you will join us on this mission to mend and to help enable a community broken
to become bold and bring out the beauty from ashes by sponsoring an ad in this
magazine.
Isaiah 61:3 (NIV)
…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning,
and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness,
a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.
Along with your sponsorship, we match the same ad space for your organization, and
or company, which runs for 30 days. We feature a link that would easily with one click
bring customers to you!
To find out more please call: 281-906-1597 or email: [email protected]
You can sponsor by visiting our website or mailing check to:
www.foodforsoulmagazine.com
P.O. BOX 304 TOMBALL, TX 77377
3
A Word from the Editor
Greetings and a warm welcome to our sixth issue of Food for
Soul Magazine! We couldn’t be more excited to have the
opportunity to bring to our reading audience pages of awe-
inspiring articles, information, and recipes for the soul and the
kitchen. Please take some time to get to know the layout of our
magazine. You will notice each page is filled with material to
enhance, encourage, and provide practical ways to grow
spiritually, mentally, and physically.
You can look at one category at a time, or examine the articles
page by page to choose which to read first. Just as with any
paper magazine, you can choose to sit and read the whole thing
at once, or come back to this issue several times to digest the
articles more leisurely.
We established this on-line magazine to promote a strong
deliberate life-style of giving and a heart to serve. What you will
find in the pages of Food for Soul Magazine, is a collection of
inspiring, educational articles written by actual, honest, down-
to-earth folks who work hard to live deliberately, but who are
not afraid to admit the struggles that we often sometimes
experience.
We are honored to share the work of committed people who
live their lives with a purpose and a plan to promote a work that
will help many lives. Feel free to leave comments and share your
thoughts or ask the authors a question.
We appreciate your support and are so pleased to have you as
a reader of Food for Soul Magazine.
With warmest thanks,
Brenda A. Graff
Being a former news reporter sparked a
great desire in me to continue writing
and researching, but with a purpose to
help others. Being a wife, and mom of
six has had its challenges, but it has
taught me much along the journey and
to utilize the experience to ignite a
passion for positive change in our
communities. Much time is spent on
projects, and ministry. At other times
you will find me in the kitchen creating
new dishes. Currently, I am a busy
homeschooler, Grandmother of two,
and when I’m not wrapped up with
family or community…spend many
hours working on my God-given
passion, which is pen to paper with a
purpose!
Seeking contributing writers
Send comments, recipes, photos, articles, or poems to: [email protected]
FOOD FOR SOUL MAGAZINE - P.O.BOX 304 TOMBALL, TEXAS 77377
www.foodforsoulmagazine.com
Brenda A. Graff FOUNDER
Food For Soul Magazine
4
5
The day before Easter, we had been scheduled for a road trip to College
Station, Texas to celebrate my father-n-laws eighty-fourth birthday. We live quite far,
but the scenery on the way up there can be breath-taking when the bluebonnets
are in full bloom. In anticipating to see a display of splendor, I made sure my camera
was ready to grab some pics. Not only were there some bluebonnets, but another
favorite of mine are the side-roads covered with the Castilleja flowers, also known as
Indian paintbrush or prairie-fire.
The flowers of Indian paintbrush are edible, and were consumed by various Native
American tribes as a condiment with other fresh greens. The Ojibwa, or Chippewa,
a large group of Native Americans used a hair wash made from Indian paintbrush
to make their hair glossy and full bodied, and as a treatment for rheumatism.
Nevada Indian tribes used the plant to enhance the immune system, but before you
go out and pick a hand full of these to consume, read up on them. They can be
very toxic if eaten in large quantities or consuming the root. Back to the road trip. As
I was enjoying the breeze through the window, and ironically listening to Third Day
on my CD player, and viewing patches of these spreading splendors, I was
overcome at the timing that these flowers begin to bloom. Remembering that
Sunday was coming the very next morning where families would gather in great
numbers all over the world to celebrate our risen Savior. It would be Easter. It brought
what I call an “ah-ha” moment. I thought of the magnitude of how God, our Creator
in heaven and earth had planted flowers all over creation. He chose the colors,
shape, size, and timing for blooming. I am always amazed as I experience the
display of artistry with each passing byway. Just months before on a Thanksgiving
trip through the area it was dry, and barren, with the whisper of bitter, cold, and
lonely winds blowing through the hills. Here it is spring, the rising up of the dead, the
buried, and sleeping…singing in full bloom the praises of our Eternal King as they
sway in the breeze. The trees in the fields clap their hands to Him, the birds in the sky
sing their praise to Him, the flowers in the fields bloom with passion towards their
Creator for all the world to witness as they celebrate the living, One and Only
Begotten Son of God, the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and our Savior. It was no
accident the petals were displayed in glory the weekend of the crucifixion and the
rising of the Son! God wasn’t placing flowers on the graveside of this sinful earth to
mourn His sacrifice of His only Son, He was planting life through His sacrifice as a sign
to never be forgotten, while giving ours back. Life eternal.
Isaiah 55:12-13 (NIV) You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. 13 Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow. This will be for the Lord’s renown, for an everlasting sign, that will endure forever.”
-Brenda Graff
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A Write… Kind of Heart
What if I really am honest and it doesn’t help anyone? What if I don’t write what God wants? What if, like when I have shared my heart before, people stare at me blankly with the kind of pity that reminds me of how he would look at an injured puppy? I hope that doesn’t happen, and I pray that my words will glorify God and encourage you. Despite the fact that I have attended Christian schools all of my life, my salvation story is nothing like that of the traditional youth group altar call. When I was fourteen, I surrendered myself to God late one night while I sat, weeping in the floor in the bathroom of my house. This surrender didn’t come easily either. It was the result of a broken person who had spent months wrestling with God, and like Jacob, I am still trying to recover from my dislocated hip, metaphorically speaking. Before this transformation, I lived with the comfortable and warped view of God as a genie. I thought I could keep Him locked away in my little lamp, rub it when I needed something, and have Him grant my wishes. This view of mine was completely shattered when I was thirteen. After countless prayers that God would heal my mom of her mysterious sickness, she passed away. I discovered that my faith was nothing but a foundation of sand, and my house collapsed quite easily when the rain and winds came. Grief is a weird thing. It feels a lot like suspense, like you are just sitting around and waiting for something to happen. You can’t start anything new. You can’t settle down. You have this constant restless feeling and an overabundance of time to think and feel. For me, this manifested itself in my trying to understand God. I couldn’t wrap my head around what had happened. God was supposed to be good. He was supposed to take care of those who loved Him and listen to our prayers. Why didn’t He take care of my mom? Why hadn’t He answered my prayers? This lack of understanding soon turned to anger. It turned into restless nights of screaming at God, telling Him that He didn’t know what He was doing, and asking Him where He was. For months I was depressed, hurt, and angry. Everyone around me attempted to help by telling me about how I needed to turn to God, and that only made me even angrier.
Recently, a friend of mine, Kevin Adams, asked
me to write a guest post for his blog. I almost turned it
down because I felt like the kind of Christians who
write…were close to perfect, and I knew that wasn’t
me. I thought that I was far too damaged to share
anything helpful. But I have realized lately that we are
all damaged. We humans are reckless creatures with
fragile hearts, and because of this, I know that you have
been hurt too. I am so genuinely sorry that you have
been through tough circumstances, but I have good
news. This news is actually something that God showed
me while I was reading in 1 Samuel 13. In this chapter,
a battle is about to take place between Israel and the
Philistines. It says that the Philistines had 30,000
chariots, 6,000 horsemen, and people as abundant as
sand on the seashore. Israel, on the other hand, had
around 600 men who didn’t even have swords because
there was no blacksmith. Instead of giving up, the
Israelites sharpened what they had, and went into
battle with axes, mattocks, and hoes. The Israelites
won the battle, and it obviously wasn’t because they
were the strongest or the most well prepared. The
Israelites won because they had God on their side, and
a faith in Him so strong that they were willing to go into
battle without swords.
So, whenever you feel like you can’t do good things for
God because circumstances have set you back,
remember that Christians aren’t called to perfection.
We are called to be faithful, and use everything God
has given us to fight our battles. That is what I tried to
do with this article. I wanted to use my experiences to
help you. I certainly don’t have a sword, but I did my
best to sharpen my axe.
When Kevin asked me to write about my faith, I realized
I am very inadequate for this task. I can’t even get
myself to consistently read the Bible. I will talk about
God’s love as long as you let me, but I am constantly
allowing fear and pride to keep me from showing His
love. For these reasons and many more, I didn’t feel like
I had anything to share except for maybe a few nice
words plated with a thick layer of hypocrisy.
By Jordan Sylar
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Kevin’s story has given me an example of a real life
person who does more than just talk about the heroes
of the Bible; He emulates them. He listens to God’s
voice and faithfully obeys. He has built his ark with no
sign of rain, and that is something that has inspired
and challenged me more than I can put into words.
This inspiration could not have come at a better point
in my life. Right now, when I am trying to sort through
colleges and careers, is when I will make the choices
that affect the rest of my life. From Kevin’s story I have
learned that I don’t have to have it figured out, that
instead of pressuring myself to take action, I just need
to listen and obey. I’ve learned that I won’t find God’s
purpose for me unless I seek Him “not only above all
things, but instead of all things.” This means that I have
to let go of areas of my life that God doesn’t approve
of. I have to take responsibility for my careless sinning
and selfish ambitions, even though it makes me
uncomfortable. Growing up and taking responsibility
for my life and actions is really scary, but I have learned
that all success really requires is that I keep a loose grip
on my plans and my ears trained to hear God.
When you follow God, your story is only sad if you stop
before it is complete. Yes, throughout life we are
challenged and hurt. We have moments of feeling
worthless, unloved, and inadequate, but because of
God that is all temporary. What is eternal is laughter,
joy, redemption and triumph. Our stories will never be
somber tales of tragedy, but triumphant ones of God’s
unrequited love and faithfulness. All that’s required
for this happily ever after is a wise God and a willing
fool.
Jordan is a 17 year old high school junior. When she isn't
doing homework, she likes to read, play sports, play guitar,
and tell cheesy jokes. She especially loves her family, and is
one of a set of triplets. She is passionate about people, and
filled purpose and desire to help them.
Not only was God ignoring me, but He was the One who had cut me open. Why would I want Him to help stitch me up? This awful cycle came to a head one night when my inner turmoil became too much to bear. I was just sitting on a staircase in my house because I didn’t know where to go. I began to pray, but this time it was different. It wasn’t accusatory. I wasn’t angry. I just told God that I needed Him. I told Him that I had been hearing rumors that He provided rest for the weary and that His burden was light, but all I could feel was exhaustion and heaviness. It was then when I finally understood what Christians mean by “God’s still, small voice.” God spoke to me gently and told me that He had always been there. His heart was aching because mine was. He said He had always been ready to take my heavy load, but I had to be willing to give it to Him. I understood what He meant and began to cry. I hurriedly locked myself in a bathroom so my family could not see my tears. In the floor of that bathroom God explained His process to me. Following God doesn’t mean saying a prayer and receiving a magic lamp that will solve your problems. It means daily surrender and trust. God wants us to surrender our dreams, desires, and ideas of what we want our life to look like to Him, and trust that what He has in store for us is so much better, even if the process is painful. That’s exactly what I did that night, and it was the best decision I have ever made. However, just because it is a good decision, doesn’t mean it is an easy one. Following God is a never-ending process of obedience, which honestly, I have never been good at. I’ve always marveled at the courageous, faithful people in the Bible. I’ve always desired a faith like David’s or Abraham’s. I’ve wondered how anyone could possess a belief so strong in God that they would boldly fight giants; That they would be willing to sacrifice their own son, knowing that God’s plan is always best. Even though I desired it, this kind of blind devotion was always something that I shrugged off. I thought that it was impossible to fully rely on God in a world that teaches you to rely on yourself. That’s why I feel so blessed to have been able to read “The Extravagant Fool.”
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Kevin Adams is a fresh voice among today’s best Christian writers.
What he’s not, however, is a pastor, theologian or pulpit preacher; he doesn’t have a church, a fan
club, or a flock. He’s just a regular guy with a powerful story, and a God given gift for sharing it that
will challenge the faith of even the most seasoned, veteran believers.
His transparency and intentional, elevated writing style has earned him a trusted reputation across
the online Christian community. His work escorts readers through his own challenging experiences
of loss, betrayal and impossible odds, to just beyond the comfort level of most Christians–the place
where absolute faith is required.
Kevin takes a genuine approach to modern Christianity that would rather tear away empty pockets
than fill them with empty promises. Yet, his story is filled with indisputable proof of our Heavenly
Father’s better-than-we-can-imagine desire for each of us, and the delight He takes in our learning
to rest in His arms like happy children.
Kevin is the author of The Extravagant Fool: A Faith Journey That Begins Where Common Sense Ends,
Released May of 2014, and founding partner in a new discipleship ministry being developed around
the book. He is also the founder of the Wake up My Faith blog, which has garnered a social media
following of over 100,000, reflecting varied backgrounds and locales.
Kevin’s life verse is Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all
these things shall be added to you”. (NKJV)
And his philosophy on life can be summed up in a single thought:
“Only when God becomes all that we want do we truly see that He is all we need.”
–Kevin Adams 2014
Kevin is husband to Holly, his beautiful partner in faith, father to three wonderful children, and a
compelling new author for Zondervan.
Website: http://www.extravagantfool.com Extravagant Fool Book Trailer
Blog: https://wakeupmyfaith.wordpress.com/
Twitter: @wakeupmyfaith
10
A couple waits anxiously for the first ultrasound.
They want to make sure everything is perfect.
Measurements are taken.
And the measuring of our kids just keeps going.
As soon as this child enters the world, another
measurement is taken - the Apgar score gives
necessary information but when a child does
not reach the highest number, steps are taken
and parents worry. And the measurements just
keep coming. Our kids are compared to
others in their age range to find out if they
meet percentile standards. Parents proudly
boast of great percentiles, while others worry
endlessly over numbers that do not seem
normal.
And the measuring continues.
My children never presented on the percentile
chart. They were all small. Very small. But now
my daughter towers over me in height. I knew
when my first was born that I had small kids.
Thankfully, my doctor assured me they were
fine. While I know that measures are necessary
for determining health, it becomes a little
overdone. Parents often turn a simple
standard growth chart into a comparison
game that brings unnecessary pride or
overwhelming worry. Many times for naught.
And the measuring continues.
Fast forward to school - tests and grades put
measures on our kids daily. Yes, these things
are important but not all kids test the same. As
an educational therapist, I work with struggling
learners. Many times these kids know the
material if it is presented to them in a way they
can grasp - usually not in textbook format. Yet
the material is presented in textbook format.
Then tested it textbook format.
And the measuring continues.
Another measure. Another missed
opportunity for true growth. The older our
kids get, the stricter the measures become.
However; something changes. They know
the measuring exists. When they feel
measured, they thrive or fail on that
measure. The situations become about the
measure. When that happens, true growth
is missed. For the child and the person
holding the measure. When you hold
someone to a measure, chances are, they
will fall short.
It’s time to drop the measure.
I see the importance of tests and results, and
know eliminating them would be
detrimental. How can you help someone if
there is no way to know they need help?
But as parents, there is one thing we can do:
Focus on the heart, not the measure.
If you nurture the heart, the measure loses its
grip.
Simple ways to do that are by asking these
questions:
1. Did you do your best? If not, what could you
do differently next time? If so, celebrate!
2. How do you feel about it? Value their feelings.
Our feelings aren’t wrong. When you, as a
parent, think your child’s feeling is inaccurate,
off, or something you don’t wish for them, it’s
really just a sign that attention needs to be given
to that area.
3. Did it honor the Lord? If not, go to Him for
forgiveness without shame. If so, praise Him, not
yourself. This is one that some children might not
see right away. Modeling this attitude helps. That
means sharing with your children when you
don’t honor the Lord. Model forgiveness without
guilt.
MEASURE By Kimberly Vogel
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Model praising Him instead of boasting in
yourself.
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.
-Galatians 1:10
Before you can throw out the measure for your
children, you have to first lay down the
measure you have of yourself. That might just
be the hardest step of all.
But when they measure themselves by one another and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding.
-2 Corinthians 10: 12
CLICK HERE TO ORDER BOOK
Kimberly shares God’s love for children through her
writing, and encourages moms through her blog. Ribbons
of Rainbows is Kimberly A. Vogel’s first children’s
storybook, published with Reflective Life Ministries. She
lives in Texas with her husband, Kevin, and four
daughters. The whole family enjoys serving God together
at church, where Kimberly leads the children’s ministry.
When she’s not homeschooling her girls, serving, or
writing, you can find her spinning words into stories or
twisting yarn or wire into crafty creations.
It wasn’t always that way. After a time of living for Him
when it was convenient and hoping our children just
caught on, God moved in our family bringing us to a place
where He is the center of our lives. I noticed in my family
a disconnect between my husband and me with our
children. Step by step, God grew our family together. I
guess you could say we’re still growing – always working
on our relationships, because it is a process, constantly
needing attention. We now walk with Him as a family –
serving, worshiping, and living life together.
Most days I stand amazed that God blessed me with an
amazing husband and trusted me to be the mom of four
beautiful daughters. Several years ago, I made the switch
from teaching in a classroom to teaching our children at
home. Besides being certified as an Early Childhood and
Elementary teacher, I’m certified as an Educational
Therapist through NILD. Just as life became comfortable,
God called our family from a large church where we
served as teachers in the children’s ministry to a small
church where I now lead the children’s program. Church
is taking on new forms and I’m learning what church
family really means. I write as an outpouring of my heart
and soul and in my small amount of free time, I craft.
Visit my Blog
Kimberly Vogel – Author of Ribbons of Rainbows
Ribbons of Rainbows tells the story of two young
Stones in search of God’s glory. Peeking through the
window, Jem and Jeweley notice Mama Stone reading
her Bible. Ribbons of rainbows flow from her. The
little gems want to shine like Mama, but don’t know
how. Jeweley hears Mama say something about a veil
and reflecting Jesus, so she runs to her room, finds a
veil, and covers her face. To her surprise she likes it!
She’s able to hide her feelings and her freckles too.
But, when she looks into the mirror, she isn’t shining
like Mama. Her disappointment leads her to a selfish
attitude. A picnic in the garden provides the perfect
opportunity for Grandma to talk to Jem and Jeweley
about Jesus. Jem’s search for Jesus leads him to his
closet where he realizes he wants to live for Him.
Jeweley also wants to shine and connect with Jesus.
But something is wrong – her veil is stuck! Will it ever
come off? Will she shine with ribbons of rainbows
too?
12
www.reflectivelifeministries.org
13
Burn the Burgers, Not the Bridges By Nancy McDade
Have you ever had a day when everything you attempt to do seems impossible, a day
when nothing goes right and even the simple things are difficult? You are convinced that
the ceiling will probably come crashing down, any minute, on your head because that is
just the kind of day you are having. These are the days where you stop and think: "why did
I get up today? Maybe I should just go back to bed and try again tomorrow." I think we
have all experienced days like this at one time or another. Last weekend my husband,
Brain, took his truck into the shop because of a rattling sound. Nobody had been able to
diagnose the problem but, finally, the mechanic at this one garage said that this particular
make/model/year truck is known to have engine failure at around the number of miles
my husband's truck has. He said "the only solution is a new engine." Yeah, that's just what
we wanted to hear, a new engine. Both my husband and I saw dollar signs, dollar signs
that we did not have in the bank. Due to ongoing medical expenses, our finances have
been very strained the last few years. Having to replace an engine was not what we were
hoping for.
Then Sunday morning, just as we were about to head to church and with both our boys
already in my car, it decided to break down too. The car would not shift from park into
drive. My husband got out and tried pushing it but, ‘no-Sir-Ree-Bob’, it would not budge.
It was stuck in park and not going anywhere. At that very moment I had decisions to
make. Was I going to allow two broken down cars to ruin my day or not? I could have
gone into a fit of rage and allowed all the neighbors to see me in my church clothes, with
Bible in hand, having a tantrum in the front yard. I could have just fallen apart sobbing
and went back inside the house. Trust me, everything inside me wanted to do both and
many times, in the past, I have reacted that way. This time, in an instant, I said to myself:
"No way am I staying home from church today." It was as if the "warrior princess" inside of
me came to life. We helped both boys out of my car, put them into my husband's truck
and drove, with the rattling engine to church. Now we had a truck in need of a new
engine and a SUV that would not shift from park into drive and no idea where the money
to repair two vehicles was going to come from. Things were looking pretty bad from our
vantage point in the physical realm. Little did we know that God had a purpose for all of
this. I will say we felt pretty discouraged by all the expenses. Later that afternoon, as my
husband was weed eating our yard, our neighbor came out. We had been praying for
our neighbor although he was unaware of that.
I believe, with all my heart that my husband was meant to share the message of Christ to
this person. We had been waiting for the right opportunity. After talking for a while, my
husband decided to invite him to have burgers at our house for dinner. I had only bought
enough meat earlier that week to feed four people because having company for dinner
had not been our original plan. It's funny how God opens up doors that are not our
"original plan." In a hurry, I rushed to the store to buy more hamburger meat and a few
other things to be sufficient for all.
14
I had to, once again, drive my husband's truck with the rattling engine because, even
after my husband replaced six fuses, my car still would not shift from park into drive. Not
long after I returned home with the hamburger meat, our neighbor rang the front door
bell. Brian had everything prepared for grilling the appetizers: (jalapeño peppers stuffed
with cream cheese, sausage and wrapped in bacon). He was on a grilling mission. I have
eaten his appetizers before and, boy, they are mouthwatering! The last step was mashing
out the hamburgers into patties.
As we worked on the final preparation, we talked with our neighbor who had joined us in
the kitchen. We shared some of the challenges we had been experiencing with our cars
and he told us about his new job. He seemed happy that someone had invited him over
to eat. We rarely see him around other people. After the crazy day we had with two
broken down cars, we were both excited about having our neighbor over, relaxing a little
and soon to be munching on some tasty stuffed jalapeños and hamburgers. God had
heard our prayers and opened this door for Brian to share Christ, we just knew it. After
placing all the food on the grill, my husband, came back inside, briefly, and I do mean
briefly. To our amazement, I kid you not, when he went back outside, he found the grill
on fire with flames almost reaching to the roof of our house. The bacon on the jalapeños
had caught fire and burned everything, including the burgers. Now what?
We had spent money buying extra food just to make friends with our neighbor who
seemed like he needed a friend. I had rushed out to the store earlier in a truck with a
failing, rattling engine because my car would not shift from park into drive. My husband
had spent time prepping a meal when he had a laundry list of other things that needed
to be done. Now the food was burned. Why on earth would God open this door to reach
out to our neighbor just to have the food go up in smoke? At that very minute, again, I
had decisions to make. Would I allow a few burned burgers and some stuffed jalapeños
which now looked more like flaming missiles ruin my day?
Would I have a meltdown in front of my neighbor who we had welcomed over for dinner?
The old me, would have probably threw her hands in the air and just went into "negative
mode " and decided, no way, let’s just forget dinner and any conversation too, thank
you very much!!! So there we were, was a few burned burgers going to cause me to
crash and burn when I was called to show the love of Christ to a lost and hurting world?
Not this time! This time, by God's grace, the "warrior princess" went to battle. I scrapped
off the crispy on the burgers and buns and we ate it anyway. I actually like my meat well
done. Our neighbor asked for some mayonnaise for his bun which, in hind sight, is kind of
funny. He was so polite and never even complained. It would have been so easy to
just say "I give up,” but then, instead of just burning the burgers, we would have burned
the bridge also. Our neighbor was a trooper. He did not care that the burgers were
burned.
We all enjoyed conversation over burned burgers with extra mayonnaise. I wonder how
many times God calls us to do something and we let "stuff" get in the way? I am the first
to say, I am guilty of this. How many times does a stranger or an acquaintance just need
someone to smile at them or show a tiny shred of interest in their life but we are too busy
or frustrated over the little stuff?
15
There is the grass that needs mowing, "if I stop now to speak to Mr. Jones, he will talk
forever and I will never finish."
I asked God why He allowed the burgers to burn that night after all the preparation to
make a nice meal for a person in need of The Lord and a friend. This is what God said
to me as He spoke into my heart: "I allowed the burgers to burn so that your neighbor
could see that you are human."
So many times, as Christians, we think we have to be perfect to win someone to Christ.
God does not need perfection, he needs a willing heart. Sometimes the appearance
of "perfection” can be a turn off to those who are lost and hurting. They need to see
that our cars break down, we struggle sometimes to make ends meet, and we burn
burgers at mealtime. When they see these things and, yet, see a joy that is
unexplainable in the midst of the struggles, then they see Christ in us. If we allow the
failures and disappointments in life to keep us from reaching out to others, then, in
addition to burning the burgers, we have burned the bridges too.
God showed me last weekend its ok to be real, no need to pretend life is perfect. Allow
the hurting to see you in your struggles. Don't burn the bridges by waiting until things
are smooth to share Christ with someone. Your struggle and how you deal with it may
be what wins them to The Lord. Amen and Amen.
Nancy McDade is a wife and mother of two boys,
ages 7and 3. She has been a registered nurse for 21
years and has worked in various areas including
orthopedics, general medical and surgical, home
healthcare and pulmonary specialty clinic. She
enjoys writing, reading, camping, and spending time
with family.
16
Counting calories is so old school. It’s not about the amount of calories. It is about the quality of the calories:
(quality over quantity) less calories from carbohydrates and more from protein sources. My heart pains me every
time I hear someone is counting or even cutting calories. People place themselves on 2000 calorie diets, 1500
calorie diets and even 500 calorie diets. 500 calories is not safe.
0-400 is starvation or near starvation.
400-800 very low calorie diet – fluid and
potassium shifts causing problems
800-2500 low calorie diet – commonly used by
diet specialist, primary care managers.
Above
1500
balance deficit diet – (BDD) or reduction
of 500-1000 cal/day from the daily
recommendation in one category such
as simple carbohydrate or low fat.
I am going to stay out of the DIET wars. But just to be clear, there is one common factor among all the ‘diets,”
reduced carbohydrates.
Food addiction is different than other addiction. You can stop drinking alcohol with help and never go back. You
can stop smoking with help and never go back. But you cannot stop eating food and never go back. Not going to
happen. Food is a necessary part of life. Without food we die. But we also know that an overabundance of food
can also kill.
Our bodies need micronutrients and macronutrients to fight infection, for proper wound healing, to grow healthy
hair, healthy nails and healthy skin, and other really important processes of the body. Three-fourths of the U.S.
population does not meet daily recommended dietary allowances of these nutrients.
There are several different diets. Have you heard of one
of the following? Atkins, Protein Power, ZONE, LEARN,
ADA diabetic, South Beach, Weight Watchers, HCG ,
Nutrisystems, Mediterranean diet, Body for life, DASH,
AHA, Ornish, Vegan, Vegetarian, Kosher, Whole Food.
All just a combination of low fat, high fat, low
carbohydrate or high protein. ADA diabetic, South
Beach, Weight Watchers, HCG, Nutrisystems,
Dr. Sonya Brock shares insight on why dieting isn’t always best.
Drawing by Adalynn Brock 2014©
= 50 g
I’m okay.
I’m not gaining
Or losing weight.
<50 g
I’m tired and
I’m gaining weight
>50 g
I feel great!
I’m losing weight.
17
They are the folks who are diagnosed as overweight or obese. So please, stop starving. You can eat 2000 calories
a day and loss weight. It is about the quality of the calories and not the quantity.
Take a look at the folks in the picture. Person #1 gets less than 50 grams of protein every day. This is not enough
to power the many metabolic function of the body. This guy is gaining weight because his body is storing any
food that is able to be stored. He is starving for protein. Person #2 is getting 50 grams of protein every day. This
guy can’t lose weight even though he is eating only healthy food. The body can’t risk losing the stored fat because
he may drop his protein consumption any day. Person #3 is getting more than 50 grams of protein every day. The
body is getting the micronutrients and macronutrients it needs to repair itself and then energy to maintain an
adequate metabolism. The body is ready to start using and losing those fat stores.
So to be direct, eat more protein and less processed carbohydrates. Every adult needs 50 grams of protein to
process the micronutrients and macronutrients consumed in order to be healthy and have energy. Without them,
your body is starving and will store any food possible as fat in adipose tissue. So even if you cut down to 1000
calories, if you don’t get the necessary amount of protein your body needs, your body will store as many of those
1000 calories as possible.
When you get 50 grams of protein every day, your body will stop storing the excess as fat and use it as energy.
When you get more than the daily recommended 50 grams of protein, your body is excited and will start to burn
away the stored fat because it is getting all it needs plus extra. So eat more. Eat more meat, beans, raw nuts, low
fat dairy products, raw fruits and vegetables. The more of these food sources you eat, the more you will stop
starving, stop storing fat and start losing stored fat. Stop eating processed foods. They have no nutritional value.
Try 25 grams of protein sources for breakfast, 25 grams for lunch and 25 grams for dinner. Try this for 6 weeks
and you will see amazing results. You will have more energy, you will gain muscle tone, your waist size will start
to decrease, you will sleep better and so much more. Notice I did not say anything about weight. Remember, you
have to stop the storage process and then your body will start to burn the stored fat. This burning of stored fat
occurs with the continuation of healthy eating of protein rich foods from all food categories.
You will see results and never starve. You can do it.
Sonya Brock, M.D., is board-certified in family medicine and provides all basic health care, from routine
exams to treatment for chronic conditions. Dr. Brock values the patient/doctor relationship as well as the
education of the patient, medical staff and physician. She is also a member of the American Academy of Medical
Acupuncture. Dr. Brock received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from University of Georgia, Athens. She
completed her medical degree at the Texas Tech Health Sciences Center in Lubbock, and her residency at the
Naval Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. Her experience includes management of large medical offices, both in the
U.S. and overseas.
Sonya Brock, MD, Med, Lac
18
There was my firstborn with needle in arm, sitting
up, in the safety of the nurses and doctors who
knew immediately the cause of her drowsiness.
Thank you, God that You have guided her to her
own street, almost 15 miles from her class, on the
freeway, and through busy traffic. Thank You that
trained officers knew my husband and called so
quickly, recognizing that she had a physical
problem. And thank You God that the neighbor,
not even knowing my daughter, acted promptly
to call the police.
On a day that started with my focus solely on
beautifying my hair, ended with the realization of
what could have been, and caused me to see the
beauty in His blessings. Thank You God, for this
reminder of how precious this life is and for your
daily protection. Amen
Oh, there are many days I could say that God
blessed me, but the day I am about to describe is
special in a memory that spins out from the back of
my mind. On this particular day, I set out early for the
hair salon. Anyone who knows me will attest to my
obsession with my hair. On this day before cell
phones, I sat in the chair, rollers tight, oblivious to a
fact that validated that God blesses me daily.
The phone rang and as my husband picked it
up, the voice on the other line blurted, “Sarge, I think
we’ve picked up your daughter.” Picked her up.
How? Why? When? It seems that her little white
truck was found in a ditch just two blocks from our
house. A neighbor had called the police, and
fortunately the officers yelled to her through the
window glass, and she was able to unlock her door,
eyes drooping and speech slurring. The officers who
found her recognized her last name. At first they
thought it was drugs! But, on second glance, they
noticed her medical bracelet and the name on her ID.
They called their friend and fellow officer, my
husband.
You see, my daughter, then 20, has
diabetes—Type 1. On this day, she was driving home
from her class at the University. Later, at the hospital
she reflected that she had shown signs that not all
was right. Some of her classmates had asked, “Are
you all right?”
But she didn’t recognize that her blood sugar level
had dropped, so much so that she lost control and
ended in the neighbor’s yard. When I arrived home,
head nicely coiffed, I pulled down the note that was
dangling from the ceiling fan—the designated place
for family communication. “We’re at Bayshore
Hospital,” the note read. Grabbing my essentials, I
raced frantically to the ER.
The Real Beauty
-By Brenda McAninch
A retired elementary school teacher and children's
minister at a former church. I published a book
which was a journal of how God stepped in to my
life at a desperate time titled As the Ice Thaws. I
have recently finally retired from tutoring at a local
community college. I have two daughters and
three grandchildren.
19
You will often see the long line of anticipating drivers every morning or afternoon hovering
around the favored coffee and latte brewery drive-thru. Some spend as much as $2,000
a year in this sweet addiction.
Others have the misfortune of being forced to give up coffee altogether due to stomach
issues.
Whether it be the debt factor of fueling this favorite fixation or the horrific effects on the
gut, you can still enjoy this craving for 75% less the cost, and 69% less acid effects on teeth,
and stomach by simply using an alternative method.
You can make it at home! Any flavor, any amount… Tall, Venti, Grande, or Trenta. It
won’t cost you any extra! And you can add all the flavors at no extra charge too.
Directions:
Using 16oz Mason jar fill 1/4 cup ground coffee of your choice. (I prefer Texas Pecan or
French Vanilla roasted) the flavor is out of this world good. Now all you do is add 8oz. ice
cold water and seal with lid. Let sit at room temperature for 24-48 hours, depending on
how strong you want it.
Using a large mouth funnel place over opening of another 16oz Mason jar. Add a cone-
shaped #4 coffee filter, gently strain contents of cold-brewed coffee. Add 8oz. water,
shake, and refrigerate. Last 2 weeks in fridge. You can also heat up if prefer hot, this
does not change the reduced acid or flavor.
Cold brewing retains more of the valuable antioxidants essential in the coffee. Due to less
acid it is a benefit to the bones and digestive tract. This method allows the full spectrum
of flavor to come through without the bitter edge of the oil released by traditional hot
brewing.
Disclaimer of Content
Food for Soul assumes no responsibility for the relevance, accuracy, completeness or quality of information provided in this magazine or on the website. Liability claims against Food for
Soul which refer to damage of a material or immaterial nature caused by use or disuse of the provided information, or the use of incorrect and incomplete information, are excluded
unless Food for soul is at fault through intention or negligence. All tips, and offers through advertisement and or articles and content provided by contributing writers are subject to
change and are non-binding. Food for Soul reserves the right to change, add to, delete and temporarily or permanently alter and or edit articles, commentaries, and content in part or in
its entirety without prior notice.
A MOURNING KISS…
So relax, go ahead and grab a
cup and relish in the reality that it
is possible to enjoy the sweet
savor and aroma of a morning
kiss of coffee!
20
Early in my career, I experienced a number of incredibly difficult
challenges in a relatively short period of time. I know you’ve been
there too.
Creating Your Business Vision Book
Although my team was experiencing record-setting achievements,
relationships were strained and my influence was dwindling. I
couldn’t make sense of it. And I didn’t understand why my
colleagues resented my passion for my work, my aggressive goals,
and the long hours I put in. I loved my work. I loved the outcomes.
I loved my team. I loved how they were growing. But it never
occurred to me that my passion, energy, and achievements would
intimidate those around me. After all, I was laser-focused on
improving the organization we were all part of. Their fear morphed
into resentment. I began pushing harder, defending the vision and
strategy, and reacting to challenges. As you might imagine, none
of this improved the situation. In fact, it made matters worse. It
should have been obvious. Finally, two administrators shared with
me what should have been obvious – “Michael, your team doesn’t
trust you. Some don’t even like you.” This feedback was extremely
painful for me to accept and even more difficult for me to
understand and process. I was in denial. I simply could not bring
myself to see from their perspective. Yet I was convinced that the
work environment was not sustainable – for me or for my team.
The decision
So, on the recommendation of a friend, I hired Building Champions
executive coach Raymond Gleason to help me work through life
and business planning, priority management, and decision-making.
This decision was a life-changer for me. In fact, Sarah (my wife) and
I recently spent an evening with several of our friends – they sat in
the restaurant and joked about how differently I now approach my
life and work.
What vision can do for you?
Most organizations have a vision statement somewhere in a file or
on a conference room wall. Yet, unfortunately, these vision
statements seldom serve as an energizing guide toward
exponential growth and remarkable success for the organization.
MICHAEL NICHOLS has led unprecedented growth
in businesses, colleges and universities, churches,
and non-profits for more than 25 years. He has
served as Chairman and CEO of an international
marketing firm, a college and university executive,
and a non-profit executive. He is the author of
Creating Your Business Vision and has a Doctor of
Education degree in Organizational Leadership.
Michael coaches leaders and teams through vision
development, strategic planning, process
development, and life and work balance. He is a
keynote speaker at conferences, events,
businesses, and on university campuses all over the
world on a variety of topics, including Personal and
Business Planning, Vision, Team Leadership,
Organizational Growth, and Marketing. Michael
works every day to help people excel in life and in
their work. He is deeply committed to serving
organizations and leaders in our region and around
the world.
In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty.
-Proverbs 14:23
21
A vision is energizing. It’s enlivening. Vision is the guiding motivation for all great human efforts. I get that. My
problem was not vision – I didn’t understand how to get focused and stay focused on the vision. I was not
communicating vision effectively.
To address these challenges, I developed a Business Vision tool to help me think through and write out my vision.
My experience creating a life plan and a business vision, regularly reviewing them, and updating them, has been
transformational. These documents have kept me on track as my family, friends, career, and other interests have
grown. My life and work are fast moving. And when work gets hectic, my business vision and plans get me back
on the path to my envisioned destination.
So I wrote a book
Realizing the importance and potential of the business vision tool for leaders in diverse markets, I have compiled
my experiences and the process into a simple, step-by-step book.
In reality, Creating Your Business Vision is less a book and more a career planning experience. I intentionally made
it short so you could read it in one sitting. For a limited time, you can get a free copy of Creating Your Business
Vision by joining my newsletter list.
In the book, I will take you through:
The story of a struggling leader and how to find clarity on what matters most in your work.
The basics of vision and how to create a career, position, team, or organizational vision.
A four-step process for identifying where you are NOW, and how to get from there to where you want to be.
A step-by-step process for leading your team through vision development
Planning templates, Word documents and PDF documents that will make it easier for you to create your plan and
keep it up-to-date.
You can do it too
I now have greater clarity and purpose than ever before in my work. And I’m able to create very specific plans
to move toward the enormous goals of my vision – daily, weekly, quarterly.
Creating my business vision has been one of the best business decisions I’ve ever made. It will be for you too!
www.michaelnichols.org
Commit your work to the Lord, and your
plans will be established.
-Proverbs16:3
22
23
On January 17, 2015, a multigenerational group of women met to sew crib sheets for the Tomball Pregnancy
Center. The day began with a short devotional by Linda and was followed by a short presentation by Kelly
Bursmith, the Executive Director of the Center. After that the sewing machines began to buzz and whirl! We had
a blast making 19 crib sheets and some other items. We laughed; we learned from each other; we ate; we
bonded…we truly became “stitched together.” And there is more to come!
We’ll be gathering again on April 25, from 9 – 2, to sew nursing covers for the Center. We are also working to put
together a Saturday in July to offer basic sewing instructions in a workshop type setting. For the fall we are
developing ideas for ornaments to be made and given out during the Tomball Christmas Festival. For next year
we will continue to sew for the Tomball Pregnancy Center but also plan to expand by making pillowcase dresses
for Little Dresses for Africa.
How can you help? Currently, we are in need of:
Lightweight fabrics (minimum 1-1/4 yard lengths) for the nursing covers.
This would include quilting cotton, seersucker, and pique.
We welcome women from our local area to join us, too…becoming “stitched
together” as a community.
If you have questions or are interested in getting “stitched together” with us, please contact Linda Keltgen via:
-Shirley Utz
VISIT CHRISTBRIDGE WEBSITE FOR UPCOMING EVENT AND DATES
WWW.CHRISTBRIDGEFELLOWSHIP.COM
24
Save a Life by Donating
EVERY DOLLAR MAKES A DIFFERENCE!
It's easy and secure to give at our website! You can even tell us how to use your money.
Sponsor a dog or cat, 100 feet of fencing, medical care, or donate to the Angel Memorial Parvo Puppy
Fund, food fund, bedding, and equipment, etc.
Become a regular monthly giver and help us to take care of these precious gifts from God.
CLICK HERE TO DONATE OR MAIL TO: 4PAWSFARM P.O. BOX 759 HEMPSTEAD, TX 77445
FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT: WWW.4PAWSFARM.ORG
4 Paws Farm is an all-volunteer group of pet
rescuers! Every penny goes to either food, medical
expenses or equipment!
God said, “You don’t have to worry about love,
as long as I’m existing, you will always be loved”.
– Abba
I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore
I have continued my faithfulness to you.
-Jeremiah 31:3
Each year, approximately 2.7 million dogs and cats are killed every year because shelters are too full
and there aren’t enough adoptive homes. Act as a publicist for your local shelter so pets can find
homes. Approximately 7.6 million companion animals enter animal shelters nationwide every year.
DO SOMETHING!
25
COLLECTING ITEMS FOR T.E.A.M. AND GENTLY USED PURSES
WWW.CHRISTBRIDGEFELLOWSHIP.COM
26
`
Swedish
Meatballs…American
Style
INGREDIANTS
1 lb. Ground Chicken Breast
1 lb. Ground sirloin
1 cup fresh Italian parsley
½ Sweet yellow onion
1 Green Bell pepper
1 cup Oats
3 raw eggs
½ cup fresh mushrooms
2 crushed garlic cloves
1 tsp. Thyme
1 tsp. Smoked Paprika
1 tsp. Pink Himalayan Sea Salt
1 tsp. Ground Black Pepper
Directions:
Prepare veggies by washing and mincing. Using large
bowl mix well 3 eggs, oats, and seasonings. Add meat and
blend well. Roll into 1” x 1” balls, place in a broiler pan
with drip bottom, and bake at 350 for 30-45 minutes.
Sauce: 2 oz. Goat’s cheese
1 can Goat’s milk
1 stick Butter
½ cup real Parmesan grated
1 clove crushed garlic
¼ cup chopped onion
¼ cup mushrooms
Sea Salt and Pepper to taste
Melt butter on medium adding garlic and onion until
caramelized. Melt in the cheeses and mix spices, don’t
over boil. Let cool, will thicken. Pour over dish served
with whole grain rice or veggie pasta or rice noodles.
Photo taken by Brenda Graff
Bon Appetit! `
27
Opposing sexual exploitation. Defending human dignity.
All individuals have a right to be free from the effects of pornography
and all other forms of sexual exploitation
Areas of Concentration:
DONATE
202.393.7245
www.EndSexualExploitation.org
30
Disaster Relief, Recovery, and Rebuilding to Resilience
Victims in Disaster situations require
immediate relief aid, transitional
recovery assistance and long-term
resilience. CitiIMPACT believes that
local churches are uniquely positioned
to lead the way.
Forging partnerships with local faith
communities, CitiIMPACT brings
organizational experience, a calming
influence, and resources from its
nationwide partners to make a
difference in others’ lives.
Response, Recovery and Resilience
"It can't happen here." "It's never happened here." "It won't happen here."
These are phrases we've all heard or maybe even said... They're simply
NOT true!
CHAOS of disasters can be managed, when a clear plan is in place and trained individuals are
ready.
Since no disaster response agency can meet all of a community's needs during a disaster
situation, the greatest impact results from preparation and collaborating partnerships for
response.
31
With multiple experiences in every phase of disaster response, CitiIMPACT will design and
provide customized training with the needs of each church or organization in mind.
CitiIMPACT is a catalyst of HELP & HOPE... with you.
WHAT CAN YOU, YOUR CHURCH
OR LOCAL ORGANIZATION DO?
Click on website below to find out
citiimpact.org citiimpact.org
For more information on bringing this
to your city email: [email protected]
Or call
704.507.6579
DONATE
32
LIFE is…a word from the Publisher
What do you do…when the wells dried up, the digits in your bank account look more like
donut holes, the dog has the flu, the plumbing needs repair, your kids need new shoes,
the lawn mower breaks down in the middle of cutting, and one that needed it so badly
you couldn’t find your kids, or car?
Life can be overwhelming.
Appliances usually seem to break down all at once, and this only after a much needed
car repair or dental visit has nearly severed your finances to the point you’re digging
through your sofa for any loose change, and sneaking into your child’s piggy bank.
Life can be hard.
How does it feel to watch others around you struggling with the choice of which designer
purse, or suit they are going to purchase, while you’re struggling to choose health
insurance over rent, or seeing that your family is going to eat another week?
Life can be unfair.
Do you find yourself clinging by a thread of hope? Frustrated that on every turn of a
corner, you’re met up with yet another crisis?
Life can be tough.
Are you able to breathe, make decisions, feel, speak, or hear? Can you hug your
children, and listen to their laughter? Does the sound of birds singing bring an ounce of
joy to you? Or is it the sound of a waterfall that sweeps you off your feet? Can you whisper
in the night to what may seem to be an invisible God, yet feel Him lullaby you to sleep?
Then life is good!
But it can be better when a community comes together and watch faith arise in the
process of helping others in crisis. When people are struggling they tend to draw back,
hide in shame, too prideful to ask for help. This is in turn brings hopelessness. We need to
seek out the silent cries in our communities by working together to be mindful of the
needs around us. Prayerful, and involve ourselves in giving time and provision as much
as possible with the leading of Gods instruction and plan.
Become involved with Food For Soul by sponsoring a ministry in our ad program, and help
us build on this mission to keep feeding the hungry and helping the poor in spirit, mind,
and body. It is our mission.
-Brenda Graff
The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for
the prisoners, 2 to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who
mourn, 3 and provide for those who grieve in Zion-- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil
of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. –Isaiah 61:1-3
WWW.FOODFORSOULMAGAZINE.COM
33
I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in
prison and you came to me.’ 37 Then the righteous will answer him, saying,
‘Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you
drink? 38 And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or
naked and clothe you? 39 And when did we see you sick or in prison and
visit you?’ 40 And the King will answer them, ‘Truly, I say to you, as you did
it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me.’
Matthew 25:36-40
Referenced Bible verses in magazine used versions: KSJ, NIV, NKJV, ESV, HCSB, CEV, CEB
“It's not how much we give but how
much love we put into giving.”
― Mother Teresa
34
Creates Disciples who
Impact their Community for
Eternity.
Our worship service begins at
10:30 a.m. every Sunday!
29510 Tomball Parkway
Tomball, TX 77375
Get Directions
281.351.4445
Rick is the Pastor of ChristBridge Fellowship who is
also the author of two books:
ME Addiction: Having it my way isn’t so great after all and
X-Odus Files: Following God in an Alien World.
Rick is the Pastor of ChristBridge Fellowship in Tomball, TX,
and has served on a City Council. He spends much time
writing, speaking, and coaching others. He is married and
has two grown sons and one daughter-in-law.
www.christbridgefellowship.com
www.rickbrown1Life2Love.com
Bridging People to God, Others, and Ministry
35
Even the best dieter’s in the world can hardly resist cake. There are so many variations of cake, ones
with velvety frosting, and some with pudding or ice-cream in between. There is chocolate, white wedding,
cream cheese, vanilla swirl, strawberry, confetti, the list is endless. Despite all their differences, they each have
a unique flavor, and a desire to be eaten up! Who can resist? However, you have some that will never allow
themselves to relish in the delight and joy of eating a piece of cake. Some won’t ever want to go to great
lengths of preparing a cake from scratch. It’s time consuming and can be costly. You can purchase a cake
mix in a box and it will taste good, but there is nothing like homemade from scratch recipe that will tantalize the
taste buds. You can’t get enough of it! Yet, because it takes work to find out how good that homemade cake
would taste, most live their entire lives never tasting the difference. As a matter of fact most opt for the quick
fix in the box…straight from the grocer to home. This is where you get to enjoy some of the flavor that resembles
the cake from scratch without putting much effort into it. After a day or too if not eaten right away it becomes
stale. It doesn’t preserve as well as the ones from scratch. No, this isn’t a “How To” recipe for cake. This is about
relationships, your soul mate, best friend, lover, and spouse.
Often when we are in long term relationships we become stagnant, stale, losing its flavor. This happens too
frequently in marriages. Spouses want their mates to react and be the same they were when they first met, full
of excitement, joy, laughter, and wonder…just like that first fresh piece of cake. Yet, by the time they notice
their mate has lost the ability to laugh, or feel anything above frustrated, and only wonders when the washer
will get fixed…it’s usually almost too late. Marriage is hard work! It is a deliberated lifestyle. You cannot expect
to enjoy the smooth sailing of marriage, if you’re not going to hoist the sail. You can’t man a ship, if you’re not
in it. You cannot enjoy the luxury of a savory piece of cake if you won’t take the time to make it. Just like a car,
you can put the keys in the ignition all day long, but if that car is on empty…it ain’t going nowhere! What are
you putting into your relationship? Is it sour grapes, or strawberry jam? Do you make them feel wanted,
appreciated, or attractive? Or do you spend your free moments playing games on your cell phone, computer,
iPod, or tablet avoiding any kind of intimacy. Do you focus more on your job, hobbies, ministry, or even your
kids then you do your spouse? Is your relationship stale like week old bread left unwrapped on the counter?
Has your “sweet cakes” become hard, bitter, and dried up? If so, then sometimes frosting a little sweetness on
top and heating them up will spring them back to life! It really doesn’t matter the flavor of the frosting…it’s
about the texture, and consistency.
Do you take ownership for your wife? Do you treat them like no other man would? Wives, do you own your
husband? Do they know they are desired, respected, and trusted? Or are they living out their fantasies online,
or with their secretaries, and co-workers? In this day and age it’s too easy to have an affair with online
accessibility, and a society with loose morals, we are teetering on dangerous ground. This is why I said, it is a
deliberated act, a thought process involved in marriage. You can choose to ignore the warning signs and
procrastinate your way right into a divorce, or you can be proactive and ignite a fire back into that marriage.
The relationship’s essence depends on action, not words. And just like the layers on a cake with that sweet
goodness spread in between, if God is not sandwiched in your marriage it will crumble to pieces where the
vultures can devour it. So if you’re up for cake, you might want to read the recipe, it’s called the Bible. It can
save your marriage, it won’t be a cake walk, but it will certainly be easier to palate.
-Brenda A. Graff
got cake?
It does the marriage
good…
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Do you have something inspiring to share? An experience that has changed your life?
We would love to publish it!
Send to: [email protected]
Or mail to:
FOOD FOR SOUL
P.O. Box 304
Tomball, Texas 77377
What’s
Your
Story?
But He answered, “It is written: Man must not
live on bread alone but on every word that
comes from the mouth of God.” - Matthew 4:4 (HCSB)
We are a forgetful people.
We need storytellers.
We need someone to lay the drama of God’s love before us.
We need to be reminded of the uncommon grace of God.
-William R. White