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TRANSCRIPT
FOOD FOR SOUL May 2015
The Verdict is in
Pg. 5-6
I Can’t Live
Without Your Love
Pg. 7-8
Hydration
Pg. 11
Go Green
Pg. 15
Shake a Tail
Feather
Pg. 21-22
Changing the
World Never
looked So Good
Pg. 23
Who’s Got Your
Back?
Pg. 25-26
No. 7
M A G A Z I N E
Look inside to read how this Christian Contemporary Artist
overcame addiction, the agony of loss, and gained life through
Jesus Christ.
John 3:16
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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 OF AMERICA,
4PAWS (non-kill) PET SHELTERS, and T.E.A.M., etc.
We sponsor advertising for these organizations to encourage giving, and inspire communities to get
involved as we spread the message of Jesus Christ.
Our goal is to one day open up a crisis center that provides training, and resources for families of domestic
abuse.
We pray that 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.
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
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A Word from the Editor
Greetings and a warm welcome to our seventh 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 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
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The Verdict is in… -Nancy McDade
Not guilty, not guilty, not guilty! The verdict has been read. There is no changing the outcome now. The court has decided and there is absolutely nothing you can do to change their mind. My question is: Why on earth would you want to change their mind when they have declared you not guilty? How many times in life do we walk around with shackles on our feet that other people have placed us in? There we are smiling and striving as we work so hard for approval. Maybe someone close to you has caused this. Maybe their constant words of negativity and “woe is me" attitude has placed you in a place of condemnation. There you are trying so hard to reach higher, work harder, catering more to their needs, and overlook your own i.e. (resting), in hopes of not ever raining on their parade. They have declared you guilty, not because you have truly done anything wrong, but because you are an easy target. Or, perhaps, you have declared yourself guilty because, throughout your entire life, others guilt trips have sent you on a journey that you never intended to take. Let me tell you a little secret, you are not the cause of their unhappiness. For whatever reason some people choose unhappiness. They always see the glass as half empty. Don't become a victim too by allowing someone else to condemn you when God, the creator of the universe, has declared you not guilty. Feelings of condemnation and guilt can keep a person beat down to the point of physical exhaustion. Nothing is ever good enough and so we work harder and harder trying to please everyone. Guess what? You will never please everyone. No matter how many cakes you bake, clothes you wash, gifts you buy, cards you send, meals you cook, or compliments you give, there will always be one who still feels short changed
Truth is, maybe their attitude is the reason they
feel short changed. You cannot force a person to
change their attitude if they don't want to.
Sometimes in life things happen to us that are
completely out of our control. Children grow up
in dysfunctional homes every day, not because of
choices of their own, but because of others
choices. These events can leave impressions of
guilt, anger, condemnation or a victim mentality.
It’s natural to feel that way when a child is left to
defend himself at an early age. The good news is,
we do not have to stay that way. We do not have
to remain shackled to past events in our life.
There was a man by the pool of Bethesda who
had been sick for 38 years. (John 5: 1-15). The
man could not help himself. Every time he tried
to make his way to the pool to be healed,
someone would jump in front of him and they
would get healed instead. I am guessing this man
was discouraged. He was probably angry and felt
like a victim. Can you imagine the audacity of
someone jumping in front of a lame man who is
trying with all his might to make it to the pool for
healing? I am convinced the lame man must have
thought "woe is me" quite a few times. He may
have even had resentful thoughts about the
people who jumped in front of him as he
struggled in pain. The Bible does not say exactly
when the man sinned or what the sin was but, at
some point, the man had sinned because Jesus
later said to him, “Sin no more, lest a worse thing
come upon you."
Being mistreated does not give us a license to
mistreat others. We can get so accustomed to
being mistreated that we develop a bad attitude.
We develop coping mechanisms to ease the pain.
Maybe we use sarcasm, passive aggression,
whining, abusing alcohol or drugs, laying guilt
trips, or lashing out at others.
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We can become comfortable in our discomfort
and start to accept our hateful ways as being
acceptable. Jesus asked the lame man by the pool
of Bethesda, "Do you want to be made well?" The
man answered with excuses of why he could not
be made well. "Sir, I have no man to put me into
the pool when the water is stirred up; but while I
am coming, another steps down before me."
Jesus immediately says to the man "Rise, take up
your bed and walk." Jesus had compassion. He
healed the man who, for 38 years, had been
overlooked, stepped over, and disregarded. This
man simply did what God told him to do which is
"rise, take up your bed and walk." It makes no
difference how many people have jumped ahead
of you to get to the pool, God wants to heal you.
Stop making excuses and don't allow yourself to
lick your wounds anymore. (By the way, I am
preaching to myself) Get up and walk!
Now after the man was healed the Jews said to
the man “It is the Sabbath; it is not lawful for you
to carry your bed.” Instead of being happy for this
man who had been lame for 38 years, they had to
see the glass as half empty. There will always be
those who want to crush your dreams, spoil your
milk, spit in your lemonade. For whatever
reason, some people will choose not to rejoice
with you in your success just like the Jews who
scolded the lame man for carrying his bed on the
Sabbath.
Be careful when this happens not to sin because
of it.
We are not responsible for how others treat us
but we are responsible for how we react.
Sometimes it is better to just walk away than to
hang around and try to defend ourselves by
getting into a heated debate.
This is what the lame man, who had been healed,
ended up doing. Jesus found the man right after this
occurred and said to him, "See you have been made
well. Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon
you."
Sometimes not becoming a victim means taking
up your bed and walking. If the lame man had
lingered too long in excuses I wonder if he would
have lost his opportunity to be healed. Instead, he
chose to listen to the voice of God. He took up his
bed and he walked. It was the perfect time for him.
I think he was tired of being tired. He had spent way
too long watching others get healed. Praise God, he
listened and he walked.
Maybe life for you has not been easy. Maybe you
have been overlooked, stepped over, criticized,
mocked, or unappreciated. Maybe life has left you
feeling hopeless, resentful, guilty, undeserving or
even angry. God understands but wants to make
you whole. Don't go there anymore. Don't allow
feelings of guilt, inadequacy, anger or
condemnation to rule anymore. Seize the
opportunity now and forget the excuses. Jesus
declared you "not guilty" the day you asked Him to
save you. Don't put the shackles back on my friend.
Today is the day. Not guilty, not guilty, not guilty.
Nancy is a wife, mother of two boys, and a
registered nurse for 21 years. She enjoys
writing, reading, camping, and spending
time with family. She is A Warrior Princess
for God – A powerfully prayerful soul.
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My dear friends, Chris Gomez here. I want to say that I
am 1st a vessel of the Lord and second a musician.
Ministry must always be the first and foremost reason
for what I do.
Chris Gomez, now a BMI Contemporary Christian Artist,
was a 19 year front man of popular rock cover bands. After many spiritual revelations he finally surrendered his life to the Lord completely in June 2013. Letting the life of a rock star go and turning to a life dedicated to God was no easy task for Chris. He realizes now that his talents must deliver a message as he has finally found his true calling. The Lord is speaking through Chris’s writing and singing. Delivering the message of God with kindness and compassion is truly the greatest calling of life.
Chris Gomez has been no stranger to trouble as he became heavily addicted to hard street drugs from 2001 to 2003. In those three years, Chris lost everything he owned to pawn shops, drug deals, and foreclosures. Chris will tell you himself, “When I was sick and tired of being sick and tired, I walked away from hard drugs in 2003 and never looked back.” In June of 2013 Chris plead his life to God at the most broken moment of his career. "I told God", Chris says, "I'll do anything and everything you want to take the pain and conviction out of my heart. Look at the voice and guitar skills you gave me!! Send me out into the world to sing for you I don't care, I just need this pain and conviction to go away! My life is unmanageable. I am dysfunctional. I beg you to help me. I'll do anything you want". Chris woke up the next morning still sitting in the car seat he had pleaded his life to God in the night before. That was the day he permanently left the mainstream music business and dedicated the rest of his life to the Lord. He feels that he made a promise to God that is as serious to him as God's promises are to all of us in the Bible. Redemption always makes for a great story and Chris’s story is indeed a great example of how anyone can turn their life around even in their worst moments. Chris has now devoted his life to Jesus and spreading the good word of the Lord to all who will listen. Chris continues to shine despite the recent loss of his mother. As a tribute we dedicate this to all mom’s here or awaiting for us in the eternal.
Food For Soul Magazine has become a huge fan of Chris Gomez (His Love), your family, and ministry will forever be in our prayers. “You put the “C” in courage, and the “S” in strength by faith…my friend by revealing His strength, what a testimony”. –Brenda Graff
I CAN’T LIVE WITHOUT HIS L VE
DOWNLOAD
SONG
TODAY!
Romans 5:8 -but God shows his love for us in that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
Read more: http://www.whatchristianswanttoknow.com/20-inspirational-bible-verses-about-gods-love/#ixzz3a9NrAVs3
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Who is Chris?
Chris Gomez is a Contemporary Christian
Artist called to change lives through music
and testimony. He is first a vessel for God
and second a musician. He is a former front
man of popular rock cover bands.
After a spiritual revelation, Gomez turned his
life around, both spiritually and musically.
For his new group’s debut, he said, his goal
wasn’t to melt faces anymore. It was to save
souls. In the last 7 years Chris was:
- A three time award winner of
'Chattanooga's Entertainer of the Year' by
the Chattanoogan.com music editor.
- Invited to perform three times in the
Chattanooga All Star Band at the annual
Riverbend Festival.
- His group was chosen the Chattanooga
Times Free Press Newspaper 'Cover Band of
the Year'.
- His group was also a three time award
winner of 'Chattanooga's Party Band of the
Year' by the Chattanoogan.com music
editor.
If you would like to find out more about Chris Gomez
mission on ministry and music visit:
WWW.CHRISGOMEZ.NET
Listen to his new hit!
HIS LOVE
DONATE
“HIS LOVE” is Chris Gomez’s first single dedicated to the Lord. It truly inspires
and uplifts as Chris reveals his feelings and acknowledgment of finding God’s
love.
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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
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I just walked into my kitchen and was greeted by the
fully blossomed hydrangea I had received for Easter.
It was a delight to see the blooms hydrated, as last
evening its leaves were drooping so low they almost
touched the pot of dirt.
Sometimes I think Jesus sees me like that
hydrangea I held last night—shriveled and wanting.
Until I go to the Living Water Jesus speaks about, I still
feel wilty and weak, like I can’t face another problem
that confronts me. But Jesus said he’d always be with
me and would always go before me to make the path
straight. Norman Vincent Peale wrote, “Believe that
problems can be solved.”
Yesterday, my youngest was like that
hydrangea. She was so in need of hydrating, but by
the end of the day, her outlook was blossoming again.
She had hope that she would be able to handle her
block in the road.
What made the difference this particular day?
First, her family recognized that she wasn’t herself—
her sweet and confident self. She began opening up
to us amidst dripping tears. Because we had all been
there, we shared how we had gotten through such
enemies in our own lives. Then as I left her I turned
to Jesus, “Lord, help me to know what to do and give
me the words to say.” Should I call her again? Should
I urge her to see a doctor? Put into my mind what to
do.
It’s hard to put into words, but I felt the urging of the
Holy Spirit on how I should handle my part. I asked
my friends to pray, I prayed without ceasing all day,
and I waited. As I prepared for bed, I got the call of
reassurance that God had stepped in. She was able
to get a doctor’s appointment, her dad had taken part
of her burden for the day, and she took another
physical step toward solving the dilemma.
Sometimes the quenching and hydrating that
Jesus promises comes through family and friends,
and definitely by lifting the problems to Him.
Thank you, Lord that I have grown enough to trust
and wait. Your answer always comes.
Is a retired elementary school teacher,
former children's minister, Mother of 2
daughters, Grandmother of 3, and Author of
As the Ice Thaws.
Many people, unless they have experienced
mental illness in their family or own home, do not
have an idea about how someone with such an
illness behaves or if there is any hope for recovery.
The media is left to educate through television or
movies, and the usual depiction of someone with
such an illness is someone who is psychotic and
violent. Brenda McAninch in her book, As the Ice
Thaws, presents hope for those with bipolar illness
and for those who live with them. Brenda
McAninch started her career teaching elementary
grades. She worked with all levels of students, but
her proudest achievement was starting and
directing an afterschool program. While working
with college students, she began to see the path
of some as similar to hers. She has taken a risk in
revealing her struggles with bipolar illness and
shows how her personal God stepped in for her in
specific ways.
Now Available at Amazon
HYDRATION
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www.reflectivelifeministries.org
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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!
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COLLECTING ITEMS FOR T.E.A.M. AND GENTLY USED PURSES
WWW.CHRISTBRIDGEFELLOWSHIP.COM
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INGREDIANTS
4 large green tomatoes
2 eggs
½ cup milk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup cornmeal
2 teaspoons coarse kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
1 quart canola oil for frying
Directions:
Slice tomatoes 1/2 inch thick. Whisk eggs and
milk together in bowl. Place flour in plate. Mix
cornmeal, salt, pepper, and cayenne on another
plate. Dip tomatoes into flour to coat. Then dip
the tomatoes into milk and egg mixture. Place
in the cornmeal mixture coating both sides. Set
in fridge for 20 minutes.
In a large skillet, pour ½ inch oil in and heat over
a medium heat. Place tomatoes into the frying
pan in batches of 4 or 5, depending on the size
of skillet. Do not crowd them, they should not
touch. When tomatoes are browned, flip frying
other side. Drain them on paper towels.
Bon Appetit! `
Photo taken by Brenda Graff
You don’t have to live in the south to
enjoy these tasty appetizers!
Benefits of Eating Green Tomatoes
One cup of green tomatoes supplies as much
as 42 milligrams of vitamin C, which may help
you strengthen your immune system so your
body is able to fight off colds, flu and other
illnesses more easily. Vitamin C is also crucial
for the health of your teeth, gums, bones and
skin.
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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
19
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.
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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
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One afternoon I was sitting outside and noticed my cat, Tiger posing in prey mode
on the fence. There was a blue jay just merely a snatch away in front of him, and yet
another propped up on fence directly behind him. He started creeping towards the one
in front, trying to stay focused as the one behind him would swoop down and shake their
tail feathers at his tail end. After a grueling ten minutes or so of this repeated attempt to
pounce his prey, he would get dizzy from circling back and forth trying to catch one of
the birds. He’d then lose balance, and hang on for dear life as he wavered on the post.
These birds were relentless. They would swoop down, and then inch by inch get
just close enough to provoke his craving to chase. It was comical to watch. I could just
hear the conversation between the birds, as one would squawk demands, “Hey as soon
as I get within an inch of his paw, you distract him with a swing of your tail
feathers…ready, set, GO!” It was painfully obvious that Tiger was getting frustrated, and
unable to focus. It wasn’t fun for him anymore. He finally took one last look at both of
them, and raised his white flag in surrender, as the blue jays chimed in chirping with
laughter at him. Climbing down fence, he meowed in defeat and curled up and went
to sleep. He was exhausted.
This reminded me of how Satan works to get our head spinning with so many
distractions, we cannot focus. It’s like gnats swirling around your head from every angle,
you exhaust yourself with swinging arms trying to wipe them out. Yet, the more you swing,
the more they attack. There are many circumstances we have to experience in life that
are just part of it…the good, the bad, and the really ugly. And it is Satan’s job to distract,
dislocate, and disturb our every thought or effort to live out the plan God has in mind for
us each day. If we are not careful, we lose sight of our purpose. We take our eyes off
Jesus. We start walking around like defeated dummies mimicking puppets on a string to
the songs of Satan, “Nothing’s ever gonna work”… “Why does this always happen to
me?”… “Is God seeing this?”… “Does He care?” Seriously, we become exhausted by
exhausting all our resources focusing on the situation at hand. I personally have recently
been through some ridiculous life distracting issues that upset me more than some more
serious ones I experienced in the past. I mean it was making me certifiable! Yet, God
kept reminding me to offer Him a sacrifice of praise regardless of how I felt. Despite
discouragement, there was no debate. I had to keep thanking, keep giving, and keep
marching around my walls of Jericho until the final trumpet sounds with victory.
Joshua 6:1
Now the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one
came in. 2 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king
and its fighting men. 3 March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. 4 Have
seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city
seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. 5 When you hear them sound a long blast on the
trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will
go up, everyone straight in.”
Shake a Tail Feather
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God doesn’t want us losing control by moving too quickly in solving a situation without His
leading. If we prematurely take steps, it could put us twenty feet back.
10 But Joshua had commanded the army, “Do not give a war cry, do not raise your voices, do not say a word
until the day I tell you to shout. Then shout!”
At that the moment Joshua’s men shouted with the instruction from the Lord…and the
walls came tumbling down! But not one second before that. Oh, it’s so hard to be
longsuffering when it seems results have you running in circles. Yet, if we would hang on
despite the burdens in flight, and shake off the tail feathers poking at our progress, we
would see a light at the end of the tunnel long before the glow and shake our own tail
feathers to the beat of victory, shouting praises in the presence of the Lord!
-Brenda Graff
Founder
Food For Soul Magazine
Inspiremefoodforsoulblogspot.com
Referenced Bible verses in magazine used versions: KSJ, NIV, NKJV, ESV, HCSB
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Changing the World Has Never Looked so Good:
Noonday Collection Launches Spring 2015 Collection
Fair trade fashion brand Noonday Collection has released a new line of fashionable
jewelry and accessories made by artisans around the world for Spring. Noonday
partners with 30 artisan businesses in 13 countries, empowering them to grow
sustainable businesses and create dignified jobs. The company also invites people to
become Noonday Ambassadors—stylists, storytellers, and social entrepreneurs who
create a marketplace for artisan businesses by selling their handmade products at
Trunk Shows across the United States.
About the Spring Collection
Noonday Collection designs products in collaboration with talented artisans around
the world, creating pieces that are both authentic and on-trend. In designing the
Spring Collection, Noonday’s designers were inspired by the tropical landscapes in
which many of their artisan partners live and work. The designers incorporated rich
jewel tones, organic lines, and natural motifs into the collection to capture the look
and feel of the jungle.
Some of Noonday’s most popular accessories are created from vibrant paper beads
handmade in Uganda or are upcycled artillery made by artisans in Ethiopia. In
Ecuador, artisans hand carve massive tagua seeds to make polished necklaces and
bracelets. New for this season are pieces made by artisans in Afghanistan, Mexico,
and Nepal. Afghan artisans have created an intricately embroidered clutch that
Noonday projects will be a favorite for spring. In Mexico, another talented group of
embroiderers work from their homes to create a bag that features local Otomi
designs. Noonday’s artisan partners in Nepal use “Dhaka” - a fabric traditionally used
in men’s hats - to make an eye-catching handbag.
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For more information: Visit
www.emilymacha.noondaycollection.com
Contact: [email protected]
832-506-3955
What difference is Noonday
Collection making?
Noonday Collection is now a
quickly growing business that is
giving more than 900 women
across the United States the
opportunity to make an impact
across the globe. In partnership
with artisan businesses from
Guatemala to Rwanda to Vietnam,
the company creates economic
opportunity for over 2,000 people,
impacting over 8,800 family
members. In less than four years,
Noonday Collection has grown to
become one of the world’s largest
fair trade retailers.
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Who’s Got Your Back?
-Brenda Graff
Sunday eve, Mother’s Day, I was basically forced into watching a movie that I had no interest in.
How may you ask? I was exhausted after a very long morning, and decided to plant myself on the sofa. An
area usually unknown by my presence as I am usually on the go most of the time. I rarely spend time in the
living room. If I’m not in my kitchen or at desk working, I’m driving somewhere. Not today, I vowed. I was
not going to move once I got there. I even had Hubby bring in my snuggly, and pillow…just in case I
dropped into a coma of sweet dreams. However, as I am laying there, my husband, and two of my boys
had formed a consensus against my wishes to watch a chick flick, and not even a romantic one at that…just
one of those feel good ones. After all, it was supposed to be the day of which a mom had the right to
choose whatever she wants right? They put in “The Hobbit” the prequel to “Lord of the Rings”. Now I realize
this movie series has been famous and popular for years. There are seriously dedicated Hobbit fans!
However, this type of movie just isn’t my sort of crave. It’s full of freaky looking trolls, dwarfs, goblins, and
faces that looked more like a grotesquely marred armpit, then any of the ugliest creatures I’ve seen. Then
there is this horrible dragon with really bad dental issues. Ugh...the sights and sounds almost caused me to
go hibernate in the bedroom, but I couldn’t budge. Too tired. I tried to dose off in between the raging
maniac battles, and demonic sounds of chaos of good versus evil, but it wasn’t happening. Instead, I
became mesmerized at a scenario that seriously caught my attention. No, it captivated me!
There is a scene in the beginning of the movie where a father is fighting off a dragon named, Smaug. Who
was considered to be a "great" fire drake of the Third Age, considered to be the last "great" dragon to exist
in Middle Earth. Smaug was furious as he swarmed back and forth over the village breathing fire, destroying,
maiming, and killing everything in its path.
"My armor is like tenfold shields, my teeth are swords, my claws spears, the shock of my tail is a thunderbolt,
my wings a hurricane, and my breath death!" —The Hobbit, Inside Information
The scene: Smaug, after reaching Lake-town, proceeds to destroy the city for their part in aiding the
Dwarves. Bard, the father of Bain… having escaped imprisonment from the Master of Laketown, climbs atop
the belltower and tries to shoot Smaug with arrows, though each attempt fails, harmlessly bouncing off
Smaug's armor. Eventually, Bain, Bard's son, arrives to aid his father with a Black Arrow. Unfortunately, as
Smaug flies over, he claws at the tower. With the tower now being half-destroyed, Bard is forced to make a
makeshift crossbow using a rope that held a bell, some pieces of broken wood, and use his son, Bain as a
stand.
Now picture this, the dragon is now viciously aware that the son is there, a precious commodity to the father,
and wants to destroy him. He not only breaths out fire at this point, but wickedly proclaims his attack. Bain
is trembling in fear, but still standing by his father. Smaug lands, and looks towards Bard, sneering at his
attempts to stop him. The father braces himself on this broken tower positioning his son, with Bain facing
him. He balances the arrow across his son’s shoulder instructing him to be still. Bain’s back is to the dragon
approaching, and becoming more threatening. Bain keeps looking back as he can feel the heat of fire
approaching. Father using hand gesture, begs his son...“Keep looking at me, stay focused on me”. “Be
still!” The son would start to look back and the father would remind him, “Look at me”. Bard notches the
arrow, while Smaug charges him and his son. Bard fires his arrow, which hits Smaug straight in the chest on
his weak spot. The dragon stumbles, knocking Bard and Bain off their perch, before flying back up. Clawing
and biting at the sky, his internal glow fades as he dies in mid-air. Smaug's body, upon falling to the water,
lands on Laketown's corrupt master, killing him.
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I couldn’t take my eyes off the movie at that point. What really got me, is that we live in a world with a
real demonic presence. This isn’t fairy tale. That breathing dragon in the movie is no different than the
one that seeks whom he may devour on this earth.
Think about this. As believers in Christ, we often find ourselves having to fight off the Smaug’s, trolls, and
goblins. Some are uglier than the other. Then there are some that are so beautiful, you can easily be
deceived if not grounded in God's word, or walking with the leading of the Holy Spirit.
Yet, either way they all come from the same family of demonic power…Satan! He and his posse fight hard
to take down the villagers of hope. He wants to deceive the dedicated, tear down the true. He wants to
do whatever it takes to keep you trembling in fear and disbelief. Yet, our Father (Abba) is asking us to
keep our eyes on Him. I can hear Him now saying. “Stay focused, don’t look behind you fearing the
attack”, “I GOT YOUR BACK”!
“Be still and know that I AM GOD!” (Psalm 46:10)
He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield
and rampart. Psalm 91:4
So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help
you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand. Isaiah 41:10
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes
with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Deut 31:6
I keep my eyes always on the LORD. With him at my right hand, I will not be shaken. Psalm16:8
What a beautiful revelation to think of a father, but not just any father standing there telling their
child…don’t move, don’t look back… “Trust ME”… “Don’t let the ugly threats take your focus off of ME. I
will take the enemy down, just watch me”.
Revelation 12:9
And the great dragon was thrown down, the serpent of old who is called the devil and Satan, who
deceives the whole world; he was thrown down to the earth, and his angels were thrown down with him.
Satan has especially waged war on women beginning with (EVE) and the rest of her offspring (which
means anyone living) of those who hold true to their testimony of Christ. But his time is coming! Just know
that in the realm of the unseen there are angels battling it out right now, and a Father who is urging us to
stand still and secure ourselves in Him. Whose got your back? Our Abba Father,
El Shaddai (Lord God Almighty), Jehovah Shammah (The Lord is there), Jehovah Jireh (The Lord will
provide), Jehovah Tsidkenu (The Lord our righteousness), Jehova Shalom (The Lord is PEACE).
Revelation 12:17 (NIV)
Then the dragon was enraged at the woman and went off to wage war against the rest of her offspring—
those who keep God’s commands and hold fast their testimony about Jesus.
Revelation 20:2 (NIV)
He seized the dragon, that ancient serpent, who is the devil, or Satan, and bound him for a thousand
years.
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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
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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