Thirst with Sheryl: season 2- Holistic Change

'See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.  Now before we go and discuss this verse, for the sake of context, let’s back up a couple of verses. In verses 15-17, God reminds us that He is the Lord, the powerful Creator and King who orchestrated deliverance of the Israelites out of bondage from Egyptians.  God did this, by commanding the Red Sea to part & allowing the Israelites a way to escape; but as the Israelites were making their way out, the Egyptian armies were right behind them with their chariots and horses. And use your imagination to visualize this, as the last Israelian stepped out of the path of the parted Red Sea, God commanded the Sea to come back together to its natural flow, drowning the Egyptian army!   In verse 18, God tells his people not to dwell on the past because, by doing so, they are hindering themselves from moving forward and embracing the new things that God has planned for them. I can imagine God saying to the Israelites, “just keep it moving, do not worry about the drowned enemy!” Now this is what God wants for us as well…The emphasis is on shifting from old patterns and challenges to trust in God's ability to create new paths and bring new blessings.   Droplet Reminder: The past, whether good or bad, does not define the future God has prepared for us!   You see, for the last nine months we have discussed holistic change and building our spirit, soul & body.  And my prayer, is that you have not only been listening, but also acting/doing what was shared. James 2:17 says that Faith without works is dead. So, we have to make a decision to intentionally act, to make that change.  We can’t stick with our old ways of doing things, our old ways of thinking, our old mindsets and expect fresh new results. Mark 2:22says that we cannot put new wine into old wineskins. So therefore, forget about all that & move forward.

1Cor6:19-20 CEV says Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies. Honor God with your body by getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, eat a well-balanced meal free from all unwholesome foods as mentioned above, and find some form of activity to participate in, at least 3-4 days per week.

A Recap on what’s necessary for our body: Sunshine, Fresh Air & Water.  These are things that we might not think about often, and may even take for granted. So, Lord, we thank you now for the sun, fresh air and water.

According to the National Institutes of Health, constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal problems in the U.S., affecting about 42 million people. Although, there are several causes, today we will discuss poor dentition. Dentition is the arrangement or condition of the teeth in a particular species or individual. Poor dentition can contribute to constipation and other digestive issues through impaired chewing. In addition to constipation, I want to mention other issues that poor dentition may affect: When poor dentition and severe gum disease or periodontal disease is involved, this can cause harmful bacteria from the mouth, to spread throughout the body. In the instance above, when the oral bacteria enter the digestive tract, it can cause an interruption in your microbiome of the gut which leads to an imbalance in the good bacteria and the harmful bacteria in the gut. This disruption, not only can contribute to constipation, but other digestive issues as well. Lastly, continued poor oral health, also creates chronic inflammation, which can further impact the digestive system.  Help, what can we do? First, see a dentist. Address missing teeth by exploring options like implants or dentures to restore your chewing function. Also, improve your diet and hygiene. Focus on a fiber-rich diet and maintain good oral hygiene. And finally, if you experience chronic digestive issues, consult a healthcare provider. It is very important to address the issue holistically by considering both oral and digestive health.

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The mouth is the only part of the gastrointestinal tract that we have a say over.  In other words, we can control what we do and how we do it in regards to our mouth. So let’s discuss those 5 actions… We Decide what to eat; we choose whether or not to eat nourishing, wholesome foods or processed unhealthy foods. Will you eat that Whopper with fries or will you eat the salad topped with fresh veggies & olive oil & vinegar dressing? You Decide!   We Decide how much to eat; Now the stomach can only hold so much food; and overeating puts a burden on the stomach, causing it to expand beyond its normal size to adjust to us overeating.  Additionally, to digest the extra food, the stomach produces extra hydrochloric acid, which in turn may cause a backup into the esophagus, resulting in heartburn. So, will you go for seconds on that holiday dinner plus add desert or will you have one plate & take the desert home? You Decide!   We Decide how long the food stays in the mouth. Now, the stomach does not do all the work when it comes to digestion. The teeth are very important for breaking down food into small fine pieces. This breakdown is the beginning of the digestive process; it increases the surface area for enzymes and saliva to break down food, and release nutrients. When food is not effectively chewed, the process of digestion is compromised. Your food should be chewed slowly and thoroughly. As a matter of fact, for optimal digestion, some experts suggest chewing each bite 20-30 times, depending on the consistency. If you “wolf” down your food and don’t chew it thoroughly, it can lead to bloating, gas, stomach pain or indigestion; therefore, You Decide!   We Decide how often we eat. The stomach squeezes food and mixes it with acid and enzymes to break it down. Now this process takes about 3-4 hours to digest a meal; therefore, it is very important to give this process time so that the stomach, can rest at least an hour after digestion. Why? So that the gastric glands have time to replace the stomach juices, in preparation for the next meal. If you decide to eat prior to the 3-4 hours, you run the risk of indigestion, bloating, or acid reflux. So, You Decide!   Lastly, We Decide what environment we eat in. Mealtimes should be pleasant and relaxed. If you rush to eat, discuss controversial issues while eating, eat in the car while driving or even eat while looking at the news, the digestion process is suppressed, and the “fight or flight” process is triggered. The brain will slow down the contractions of the digestive muscles, and decrease the amount of hydrochloric acid, which is required to process the food. Eating your meals in any of the scenarios above will interrupt the digestive process. Will you allow the “fight or flight” process to occur while eating or will you “rest & digest?” You Decide!   Listeners, when you know better, you do better! Please consider the 5 actions as mentioned above while eating.  A healthy meal, not overloading your plate, chewing your food thoroughly, giving your food time to digest and eating in a pleasant environment are all very crucial factors to a healthy gut. In 1 Cor 6:19 the apostle Paul tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit and therefore to glorify God with our physical bodies. 

Today, we want to continue discussion by focusing on nutrition, herbs or actions that may be helpful or harmful to the most important muscle in our body, the heart. While all muscles play vital roles, the heart is essential for life, pumping blood and oxygen throughout the body. Let’s consider Prov 4:23 NIV says Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do, flows from it. And just as the heart is the core of the person spiritually, physically it is also the center keeping us alive! So let’s begin with some helpful nutrition, herbs or actions: Cayenne Pepper- this herb is not only is an effective blood thinner, but also a dilator. It dilates the blood vessels and strengthens the arterial walls.  You can take in capsule form or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper in a cup of hot water.  Both Garlic and ginger contain blood thinning and cholesterol lowering active ingredients in their chemical structure.  Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid found in flaxseed, chia seeds, and walnuts. With 3 double bonds in its chemical structure, this oil has a blood thinning effect. Many fish contain Omega 3, but are commonly found to contain high amounts of mercury as well. So, you need to eat it, yes, but in moderation.  Fats that are healthy, like avocado, coconut oil, olive oil, nuts and seeds, contain essential nutrients that are required for heart cell membrane function and repair.  The most effective exercise for heart strength, is High Intensity Interval Training otherwise known as HITT. HITT is known as intervals of high intensity of 30 seconds and recovery of 90 seconds.  This may be done in cycles of 3, 6, 9 etc. Now, for the harmful nutrition, herbs or actions Licorice root. This herb, sometimes used for digestive issues or sore throats, can raise blood pressure and potentially interfere with blood pressure medications. It can also cause a dangerous drop in blood potassium levels; and potassium is crucial for the heartbeat.  People with irregular heartbeat, should abstain from having wheat in their diet. The complex structure of wheat is hard for the gut to digest and can cause, partially or undigested particles to enter the bloodstream. This, can potentially cause an allergic reaction or response, which in turn, may produce irregular heartbeat  Red Meat. As good as that burger may look and taste, red meat and processed meat have been associated with increased deaths from cardiovascular disease. There are also some studies that associate red meat, with a higher risk of strokes.  You are four times more likely to die of heart disease. With its 4000 chemicals, tobacco has the potential to damage the heart muscle. The carbon monoxide, that is released by the cigarette, competes with oxygen, which effectively robs the heart cell of oxygen. And may I add, smoking of cigars, pipes, vapes etc., is just as harmful.  You’ve heard the saying, “A glass of red wine, is healthy for the heart.” While this may be true to a degree, drinking it in excess, can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure or stroke. Excessive drinking can also contribute to cardiomyopathy, a disorder that affects the heart muscle.

The great and first commandment says love the Lord, your God, with all your heart and soul and mind. And I believe we are to give this our all!  Now, we can say that loving something with all our heart, can mean loving with our deepest affections, our entire being, our thoughts, and our physical resources.  And, as far as this podcast goes, which is named, love it with all your heart, the “it” in the title is the HEART! The heart is a muscle, therefore it can be strengthened, just like any other muscle; on another note, this muscle can be weakened as well if we do not take care of it. The blood, which carries water, nutrients, and oxygen to every cell in the body, is pumped by the heart. The “highway” in which the blood travels throughout the body, are the blood vessels. Heart disease is the number one killer in the world today. Why is this? I believe it is because of our ignorance of the cause. Hosea 4:6 says we are destroyed by the lack of knowledge.  Listeners, if we can get a better understanding how the heart, blood and blood vessels function in the body, we will gain knowledge on how to give them the optimum conditions to prevent and conquer heart disease. Prov 14:6b says that knowledge is easy to him that understands. Listeners, a healthy heart to a body is like a new engine to an automobile! Just as we educate ourselves on what Octane of fuel to put in our automobiles so that it may run properly; we must educate ourselves on what foods/herbs/supplements are best for the heart & what foods etc. to avoid!

This podcast is a brief discussion on some natural ways that may be used for respiratory relief. There are some herbs that have a cleansing and toning effect on the respiratory (bronchial) system. They may be taken as a tea, swallowed as pills, used as aromatherapy or bought from an herbalist in high potency tincture form, making them easy to take. We will discuss 5. Licorice- Licorice root has anti-inflammatory effects and at the first sign of a cold, take licorice root as a tea. It will stimulate your immune system by coating and calming your mucus membranes. Thyme- Thyme has a bronchodilator effect and acts as an antifungal, antibacterial, & anti-microbial for the lungs. It works as an expectorant and brings up phlegm or mucus. Peppermint- Peppermint oil is a natural decongestant which can ease breathing in people with coughs. When inhaled, the menthol in the peppermint creates a cooling sensation that can help relax the muscles in the windpipe and soothe a scratchy throat. It also acts a fever reducer. Lemongrass-Lemongrass has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help coughs, colds & flu. It also has high levels of vitamins C & A and antioxidants trigger the immune system and keep diseases at bay. Brew a hot cup of lemongrass tea with a dash of turmeric to ease congestion, move mucus from the chest and soothe a sore throat. Echinacea- Echinacea’s is a plant where it’s upper parts and roots can be used in tablets, tinctures, extracts and teas for the prevention or treatment of upper respiratory tract infection. You can combine Echinacea with ming or other ingredients, such as the lemongrass to make a more pleasant tasting tea.

The respiratory system brings O2 into the body and removes CO2. It includes the lungs, airways of the nose, throat & trachea, and the diaphragm, facilitating gas exchange. Without the proper functioning of the respiratory system, one would experience health complications and ultimately death.   This title of this episode is Respiratory B&M; But what is B&M? Well in this session, B&M will stand for breath & mucus!   The Bible often references breath and/or breathing as symbols of life and divine presence. God is the source of breath and life for all living things. In Genesis 2:7, God breathes life into Adam, in Ezekiel 37:5, God promises to breathe life into dry bones and in Acts 17:25 Paul explains that God is self-sufficient and gives to all mankind life and breath and everything." Every one of these scriptures mentions God breathing life into or giving life and breath to.  God breathes life into us; therefore, breath is necessary.   

Ears & Eyes are paired organs located on our head. The ears are symmetrical on each side of the head and they are organs of hearing and balance. The Eyes are paired organs at the top and front side of our head and are sensory organs that allow us to see. Hearing and seeing are 2 actions that a lot of us take for granted. Many do not value having ears/eyes until one or both malfunctions.  Consider the blind and the deaf…think about it. Without eyes, we cannot see the beauty of creation, the food that we eat, or our family and friends. And without ears, we cannot hear others talking, the sound of the rain, or the birds singing in the early morning as the sun rises. As we walk with Christ, we develop and heighten our spiritual ears and eyes. We hear scripture and receive revelation knowledge, rather than human reason. Our spiritual eyes can see what the natural eye cannot; on the same note, our spiritual ears, hear what the natural ear cannot.

The slang phrase, “It’s a headache,” means that something is an annoyance. Today we want to discuss that annoyance or bothersome nagging feeling of (pause), a headache!A headache is defined as pain or discomfort in the head or face area. Headaches are pretty common for many people; In addition, they are categorized into 2 main types: Primary- these are conditions where the headache is the main problem, not a symptom of another illness. The 3 types of primary headaches are tension, with mild to moderate pain often caused by stress or muscle tension in the neck/shoulders. Migraines which are moderate to severe; they are often throbbing sometimes one sided with nausea, light/sound sensitivity, visual disturbances and all of this comes prior to the pain. And lastly, the cluster headaches which produce extremely severe & sharp pain, pain is usually around one eye, and occurs in clusters over weeks or months The causes of primary headaches are often linked to brain chemistry, genetics and triggers like stress, lack of sleep, foods or hormonal changes.   Secondary-these are symptoms of an underlying medical condition; for example, sinus headache is due to sinus infection/inflammation; there are also headaches that occur with medication overuse and dehydration. Then you have the more serious headaches due to brain tumors, aneurysms or meningitis. The causes of secondary headaches are the underlying condition itself such as infection or other medical disorders   Having a headache is a distraction and can be so much of a distraction that you forget that we can go to God in prayer. In lieu of medication, depending on the cause of the headache, you can take some deep breaths in and exhalations out.  Deep breathing activates the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for helping to lower heart rate and blood pressure. It also increases oxygen intake, which can improve mood, focus, and even pain management, according to some studies. 

The organ inside the head that controls all body functions of a human being, is made up of billions of nerve cells, and is protected by the cranium, is the brain. Just as the engine is the main component that powers and controls the movement and function of an automobile, the brain, is the central processing unit of the human body that directs nearly all of its operations, thoughts and actions.  Today I want to briefly discuss different aspects of its function and health & compare this complex organ with an automobile   Complexity: Modern car engines are complex machines with many interconnected parts working in harmony. The human brain is probably the most complex known structure in the universe; it is composed of billions of neurons and trillions of connections. Performance: the performance of an automobile depends on the health and efficiency of its engine; Similarly, our cognitive abilities, physical coordination and overall, well being are dependent on the healthy functioning of our brain. Maintenance: Just as a car engine needs regular maintenance, like oil changes & tune-ups, to run well, the brain benefits from maintenance through good nutrition, sleep, mental stimulation and stress management. Damage Impact: Damage to the engine can severely impair or completely stop a car from functioning.  In a like manner, damage to the brain from injury, stroke or disease, can have profound and often devastating effects on a person’s abilities and life.   Now why is she using an automobile as a comparison? Well think about it, it would be very difficult to function without a car or not have the ability to be able to call an uber/lyft to assist you.  While no analogy is perfect, the brain compared with the engine of a car does convey its crucial role as the powerhouse and command center of the human body.

Today, we want to discuss some conditions that may occur, “on our covering.” Now, although there are several conditions that can arise,  I want to briefly discuss 3: Acne, Eczema, & Skin Cancer. Acne is a common skin condition characterized by clogged pores or hair follicles that become inflamed. This happens when excess oil, dead skin cells and sometimes bacteria build up. Acne can manifest as whiteheads, blackheads, pimples/ pustules, nodules or cysts. Acne commonly appears on the face, neck, chest, back and shoulders. What triggers acne? Hormonal changes, genetics or certain medications can trigger acne. Stress or diet, will not only trigger it, but worsen it. Hands off! First, keep your hands/fingers away from the area where you have acne. As tempting as it appears, you may want to pop or squeeze the pimple/blackhead/whitehead, thinking that you can help speed up the process of healing if you just remove the pus or blackhead, but it will only make the inflammation process exacerbate. What helps? I recommend you drink plenty of water, avoid fatty, greasy & sugary foods. Get ample sleep so that your skin can rejuvenate & heal. Gently wash the face twice daily with a mild cleanser avoiding harsh scrubbing, and using a non- pore clogging product. For the more severe cases of acne, like cysts or nodules, see your dermatologist. Eczema is the name for a group of inflammatory skin conditions that cause itchiness, dry skin, rashes, scaly patches, blisters & skin infections. Although, it mostly occurs in babies and children, it can also affect adults. Eczema usually manifests itself in the folds of the skin, but may occur anywhere on the body where there is skin.  In extreme cases, the whole body may be covered. What triggers Eczema? Genetic factors and environmental triggers cause eczema. Many people with eczema have a family history of eczema, hay fever or asthma. Additionally, an overreaction of the immune system to minor irritants or allergens can mistakenly identify them as a threat & can lead to inflammation in the skin.  Furthermore, there are some environmental factors that can trigger eczema: soaps, detergent, fragrances, certain fabrics like wool, dust, mites, pollen, pet dander, mold, certain foods. What helps? The first thing to do is to investigate and find out the cause of the eczema. Once the cause is found, you want to remember these things while you heal: Don’t scratch, apply ice, take oat baths & baking soda baths; some try natural oils with Calendula and have reported relief. Skin Cancer is a disease that arises when skin cells, particularly in the epidermis (outermost layer), multiply uncontrollably due to DNA damage.  There are 3 main types: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): The most common type, typically developing on sun-exposed areas like the face, head, and neck. It often presents as a pearly or waxy bump or a flat, scaly patch.  Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): Another common type, also usually found on sun-exposed skin. It can appear as a red, scaly patch, a firm bump, or a sore that doesn't heal. Melanoma: The most serious type, as it's more likely to spread to other parts of the body if not caught early. Melanoma often develops in or near a mole. What triggers or causes skin cancer? Damage can be caused from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. What Helps? Seek shade especially between 10 am and 4 pm. Wear protective clothing including wide brimmed hats and UV blocking sunglasses, use broad spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+ daily and reapply frequently; try to avoid tanning beds entirely! Lastly, regularly check your skin for changes and see a dermatologist for professional exams.

Saved, unsaved, young, old, black, white, brown, liar, sinner, optimist, narcissist, apostle, teacher, pastor, lawyer, nurse, doctor, writer, it covers us all.  That it is, the skin! The skin is our protective coat and is the largest organ of the body.  It is made of water, protein, fats, and minerals. The skin acts as the primary boundary with the external world. The main functions of the skin are: Protection-the skin protects us by keeping bacterial, viruses and other microorganisms from entering the body. It protects us against scrapes, cuts etc. The skin reduces absorption of harmful substance. Additionally, the melanin pigment helps shield the skin against the sun’s potential damaging ultraviolet rays. Temperature regulation- the skin helps maintain a stable internal body temperature through sweating. Sweat cools the body as it evaporates. Additionally, through sweat, the skin helps eliminate small amounts of waste products like urea (which is a substance formed by breakdown of protein in the liver) and ammonia (a waste product formed when the body breaks down proteins). Moreover, the skin assists with the dilation of blood vessels to release heat or constricts blood vessels to conserve heat. Sensation-the skin is packed with nerve endings helping us to feel touch, pressure, and pain. Vitamin D Production- when we are exposed to sunlight, the skin synthesizes Vit D which is essential for calcium absorption, bone health and immune function

Today, we will discuss 3 additional Body Essentials that should be, if not already good habits you participate in “on a regular; “Good Nutrition, Exercise & Sleep. Listeners, I have 1 question for you: Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies. 1Cor6:19-20 CEV Honor God with your body by getting 7-8 hours of sleep per night, eat a well-balanced meal free from all unwholesome foods as mentioned above, and find some form of activity to participate in at least 3-4 days per week.

Today we will continue with our holistic transformation sessions with a brief discussion on 3 Body Essentials Sunshine- Everybody seems to have a better attitude when the sun is shining. The sun makes us want to get out and do things, like garden, thrift, ride bikes, sightsee, go to the park, grab lunch etc. Eccl 11:7 CEV says Nothing on earth is more beautiful than the morning sun. A breath of fresh air…the biblical concept of fresh air or breath is used to represent God’s presence and lifegiving power. 3 scriptures in the bible that point to this are Eze 37 depicts God breathing life back into dry bones symbolizing revival and restoration; John 20:22 where Jesus breathes on the disciples and says “Receive the Holy Spirit, signifying the impartation of God’s power and presence  and  Phil 2:14-15 where Paul encourages the believer to be a positive influence in the world, like a breath of fresh air in a corrupted society.” All these scriptures represent God’s presence and lifegiving power. Water. The body is made up of 50-75% water. Water lubricates and cushions the joints, regulates body temperature, transports nutrients, eliminates waste through urination, perspiration and bowel movement, supports digestive processes and maintains hydration.

Today, we are going to continue our session on the body, with our discussion on the senses involving the 2 T’s which are Taste & Touch Tasting occurs in the mouth gate and is described as the  sensation  of flavor perceived in the mouth and throat on contact with a substance. We can say that this is eating and drinking. Now the enemy traps many Christians with this being an inroad.  For example, some of us who love, let’s say, apple pie, but instead of us eating one slice, we may opt for 2 slices or even 3. Then we wonder why we have gas, bloating or gut discomfort! And don’t forget those of us who love to go out to lunch or dinner and have that glass of wine with the meal. In addition to tasting, we also use our mouth to speak. We have discussed watching what comes out of our mouths in Season 1 and this Season.  The bottom line is, your words indicate where your heart is and if you just blurt anything out of your mouth, it shows the condition of your heart and what you believe. We have to be very careful… Prov 18:21 NIV says The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.   Touch: Touch is the deliberate contact with something or someone. There are touches that indicate positive connotations which have numerous physiological and emotional benefits, including reducing stress, easing pain, and boosting mood.   However, in contrast, touch can also be used to depict negativity. Negative touch makes one feel unsafe, uncomfortable, or violated.    Isaiah 43:19 where God is reminding listeners that He is doing a new thing with us. It says: 'See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Today, we are going to discuss the body, by beginning with emphasis on the 3 S’s: Sight, Sound & Smell Sight: Sight is what you see or observe. When you enter your space where you listened to your podcast sessions, what do you see? How does what you see make you feel? Is the space cluttered again? Sometimes what we see and how we perceive our space, affects our mood.  For example, if we see a child giggling and playing with a puppy, this makes us smile; on the other hand, if we see a dog has bitten a child, it makes us feel sad. Mat 6:22-23 NIV says the eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. Additionally, the eye gate can be understood as a point of vulnerability where the enemy can make an inroad through the thoughts, emotions, and actions of a person, ultimately leading to their spiritual or emotional destruction.  Sound: Sound is what you hear externally. What sounds do you hear during the day? Sounds of nature, praise & worship, rap music, heavy metal, piano music, water falls, construction? What sounds do you hear when you’re listening to this podcast? Sound is also what you hear internally? What is your self-talk like or internal chatter like? You know sounds can impact our focus, relaxation or stress levels. We can create a soothing environment by listening to nature sounds, spa music, rain or praise and worship.  Sounds like an infant crying, traffic, construction, or your neighbors quarreling can cause you to become a little stressed. The ear gate can also be a point of vulnerability where the enemy can make an inroad. We have to watch what type of music we listen to. There is some music that disrespects women, some that uses profanity; on another note, sometimes we may hear voices that may tell us to do something contrary to the word of God; for example, you may hear the enemy whisper to you, “go ahead, you only had one drink; go ahead and get behind the wheel.” We know that is the enemy because the Holy Spirit would not tell us to do anything that would harm us. Mat 11:15 NIV says Whoever has ears to hear let him hear." Now this scripture isn't referring to physical hearing but rather to spiritual understanding and receptivity. I mention this scripture because remember our body is the temple of the Holy Spirit as discussed in last weeks podcast. Smell:  to smell means to perceive or detect odors or scents. Different scents impact memory, emotions and physiological responses. For example, what do you smell when you walk into your room. Do you have the window open and smell the rain? Do you have your window open and smell your honeysuckles? Or do you have your window open and smell the neighbor’s strong scent of marijuana? Does the scent of the honeysuckles remind you of when you were a child sucking the sweet honey from the flower? Does the strong scent of the marijuana send a physiological response and cause your allergies to flare up? 2 Cor2:15-16 NIV says we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing are an aroma that brings death; This scripture describes both believers and unbelievers, to those who are saved, believers are a "sweet aroma of life". To those who are perishing, they are a "stench of death.”  The nose can also be an inroad for the enemy to creep into our lives.  For example, what if you used to smoke weed, but you’ve been clean for years, the constant smell from your neighbor might stir up memories of when you used to smoke and lead you to relapse.

We are spirit beings, with a soul, and live in a body. This statement highlights our three distinct but interconnected parts of our being. Today, we begin our sessions on the body.   Physique, frame, soma, build, figure, shape. These are some of the terms used to describe or identify the body. No matter what term you use, Our body is HIS Temple. 1 Cor 6:19-20 NIV says Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 20 you were bought at a price. Therefore, honor God with your bodies. If we back up a couple of verses, Paul describes that when one joins to a harlot or commits fornication, the two become one flesh; but in verse 17, Paul says “he that is joined to the Lord, is one Spirit with HIM.” Our body, HIS Temple.   In the Old Testament, God’s presence resided in the temple which was in the Holy of Holies, where the Ark of the Covenant was kept. When we accepted Jesus as our Lord & Savior the Holy Spirit came and made His home in us. Our body, HIS Temple.

For the last 4 months we have been working on building our spirt and soul. Prayerfully, you have been participating, by not only listening, but also doing? Also, you should be acting with intentionality.  Additionally, I am hopeful that you have been working in a decluttered space with your necessities of your bible, your journal/notebook, pen/pencil, & highlighter; and your intangibles of faith & expectation. We began with the Spirit first because it sets the tone for the entire journey. By focusing on spiritual growth first, individuals can establish a deep connection with God. Additionally, building the Spirit provides a strong foundation of faith, purpose, and inner peace.  Not to say, this can also influence and inspire changes in other areas of your life.  Then we progressed to building your Soul. The soul, which includes your mind, will and emotions. The mind is pretty much the control center for our actions. Thoughts enter the mind and then we act on the thought by saying or doing. The will is the part that does the “choosing.”  The will has 3 perspectives:  God’s will, Human will and Free will. For more, please circle back and listen to Podcast Episode 10 of this Season 2. Finally, we discussed the emotions, which is the 3rd part of the soul. Emotions are the voice of the soul. Now our emotions can lead us to sin, while God’s emotions or feelings are righteousand come from a place of love for His people. For more on this please circle back to Episode 11 of Season 2. And let’s not forget the practices to build our emotional resilience, the 4 P’s, R.A.I.N. and the “Let Them” theory. These practices are discussed in episodes 14, 15, & 16. Listeners, my prayer is that you have been following along & intentionally making choices that are leading you to a more holistic state. This is a good time to revisit the previous podcast episodes and tighten up and/or modify your notes/journal.  Straighten up your area, if you some clutter has crept in during these last 4 months. I know I have. Are you feeling, or have you noticed, that you have changed in any way? Remember one of the necessities for these sessions is expectation. You should be expecting change for the better. It is a process and if it is just one small change, we can celebrate!

The Let Them theory helps us expose our controlling nature. Why are we so concerned what others are doing? Why do we feel the need to control them, because you cannot control anyone, but yourself; so, the Let Them theory is important and can be very liberating. Some of you listeners might be saying, “I don’t struggle with the problem of control.”  Everyone has this struggle in one way or another. So… Here are 3 reasons we need, the Let Them theory When we control & ruminate about something, we are showing a form of anxiety. When you act with overbearance with someone, or you cannot stop thinking about something, this is a form of anxiety. And anxiety is an alarm inside of you, going off & saying to you, “something is wrong!” And why are we so overbearing anyway? Because sometimes we think that forcing, manipulating, pushing people, etc. is showing a sign of love. “Don’t forget your wallet,” “don’t forget your umbrella,” “did you remember to take your headset to church?   In our minds, we are looking out for the person, but in reality, we are suffocating them. Another reason we need the Let Them theory, is because it is easier to focus on other people. You see we trick ourselves into thinking that we are going to be in control if we control other people.  But it doesn’t work that way, Sheryl, because we cannot control other people; we can manipulate them or guilt them or shame them. However, we can’t control them. Every time we use the Let Them theory, we immediately turn the control back on ourselves.  Another reason we deal with controlling behavior is because it distracts us from what is really going on with us, on the inside. The controlling is triggered by the way you’re used to things being, and you are not comfortable with the uncertainty; which is why you jump in and out of control.

We have been discussing and placing emphasis on managing our emotions and building emotional resilience. We were given emotions from God, but if not careful, our emotions can lead us to sin. So, lets discuss this stress exercise, RAIN, which was created by Michelle McDonald and is a popular tool for developing emotional resilience. R= RECOGNIZE: Acknowledge and name the emotion you are feeling. Don’t judge yourself for having it, just acknowledge it. Take note of what it feels like in your body. For example, I’m feeling anxious and there is tightness in my chest when I feel anxious. To get rid of this tightness, take a deep breath in and exhale slowly several times to calm down your nervous system. My friend Gayle usually repeats the name Yahweh with the in/out breaths. Yahweh. A= ALLOW: Let the emotion exist without trying to push it away, change it or suppress it. Now of course with the example above, anxiety and the feeling of chest tightness, the deep breaths help calm that nervous system down to rid the chest tightness, but you are still aware and except the fact that you are anxious. It is okay to allow your feeling to exist   I= INVESTIGATE: Be curious about what caused this emotion. Were there any bad or negative thoughts that crossed your mind? What kind of sensations did you experience in your body? Like above, you experienced chest tightness.   N= NURTURE: Don’t beat yourself up for feeling this emotion, specifically if it was a bad feeling. Be kind and compassionate to yourself. I mean, you are a human being and not a robot!  

Pause. When you feel like you are overwhelmed, anxious or upset and someone asks you something, step back and take a moment to reflect. Psalm 46:10 reminds us to "Be still, and know that God is God." Pausing creates space for calm and allows us to refocus on God’s presence instead of reacting impulsively. So instead of that, Pause & take a moment to breathe deeply and ground yourself. This will allow you to resist the urge to respond emotionally and gives you time to compose yourself. We don’t want to say anything that we may regret. Psalm 141:3: "Set a guard over my mouth, Lord; keep watch over the door of my lips." Pray. Now what if someone says something to you and you are insulted or offended?Before reacting, pause of course, but say a small prayer. Maybe, “Help me Holy Spirit!” You see, in moments of emotional intensity, prayer will help connect us to God’s peace and guidance. But we have to act with intentionality! Don’t just think about praying, be intentional about praying. Paul encourages us in Philippians 4:6 not to be anxious about anything, but in every situation, pray and make your requests known to Process. Now really think about why you were insulted or offended. Is it touching on a past wound or insecurity? Also, consider whether the person’s words say more about them, than about you! Remember, you just prayed, and by inviting God into this, you gain clarity and discernment to handle your emotions with wisdom. This means you will have some self-control. Proverbs 16:32 reminds us: "Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city." Proceed. Now we’re ready to respond or make our move; but do so with poise; whether it’s addressing the situation, setting boundaries, or choosing to let go. It is a must that you act in a calm & honest manner. If it is not worth addressing, walk away, but make sure you are letting it go period. Do not bring it back up again later on. Now if you want to respond, maybe you can respond, “Let’s keep this conversation respectful.”  The key is to stay grounded, avoid reacting impulsively, and focus on maintaining your peace and values. Managing the situation with grace often leaves a greater impression than reacting with a salty attitude.

 There are several practices that can assist with building your emotional resilience; however, we will just review 4:   Now faith was one of the necessities that was mentioned earlier in the season that was needed for all of these podcast sessions.  Heb 11:1 LIV bible version Faith is the confident assurance that something we want, is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it up ahead. Read with my emphasis!  Practice prayer, reading scripture and meditating on the word to help with supporting and building your emotional resilience. Faith provides a foundation of hope and trust, allowing you to see challenges as part of a greater plan. Unforgiveness or holding onto anger or resentment can block not only prayer but also, healing. On the other hand, Forgiveness creates a space for peace and renewal towards building emotional resilience.                                                                                     Change your mindset! Embrace the belief that every challenge is an opportunity for growth. Instead of focusing on what the heck went wrong, ask yourself, “ok, what can I learn from this experience?” Build a support network. Surround yourself with people who uplift and encourage you—whether that’s family, friends, or a faith-based group. Be very careful to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to lead you to your network. Everyone you think is for you, is not!

Emotions were given to us by God as a gift, and we should do our best to manage our gift; In last week’s podcast, we discussed that not only are emotions the voice of the soul, but emotions also reveal what is in our soul (i.e. the heart.) Additionally, our emotions can lead us to sin; thus, the importance of managing them. Today this podcast episode will discuss the importance of stewarding over our emotions.

Emotions…when you ask someone what are emotions, most people answer this question with, “they are feelings.”  But emotions are more than that. As the third part of the soul, emotions are the voice of the soul. We mentioned in last weeks episode that the will is the part of the soul that does the “choosing;” so after the choice is made, our emotions, whether happy or sad, etc. are the voice of the soul. Emotions tell what we value, believe, or desire; and they also affect our behavior.  Emotions can also show what is in our hearts…fear, joy, anger, bitterness, jealousy, love, trust, etc. 

Back to the 3 perspectives or views of the will. Let us begin with the most crucial view: God’s Will. God has a divine plan and purpose for us and submitting to God’s will involves seeking His guidance through prayer, Scripture, and the Holy Spirit.  In a nutshell, God’s Word is His Will for His believers/followers.  There are many scriptures that point us to God’s Will in His Word, but I will just select 2: Joshua 1:8 tells how we should meditate/ponder on the Word of God often, do what is said in the Word and then it will make our way prosperous or successful. Proverbs 3: 5-6 tells us to trust in the Lord and not lean to our own understanding. It further tells us to acknowledge Him in all our ways, then God will make our paths straight or guide us in the right direction. The next perspective is the Human Will. Although it is a gift from God, the human will, can be influenced by sin and our selfish desires. Our God is such a gentleman that He does not force His way into anyone’s life on doing things that they really do not want to do.  Look at this example:  a person walking down the street is hitch hiking and wants someone to pick them up to go a couple miles. Now this will not happen unless drivers see the thumb up in the air. In the like manner, God is waiting for people to ask for his help or guidance before intervening in their lives. Mat 7:7 NIV says Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. To take it step further, James 4:2 says that you have not because you ask not.  Which brings us to our final view or perspective of the Free Will which is the unrestricted choice whether to accept or reject God’s love and direction. This highlights personal responsibility in moral and spiritual decisions. Some Christians take this for granted and use the excuse of Grace.  However, those that decide to use their free will to make decisions, shouldn’t forget Galatians 6: 7-9 NIV says Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life. 9 Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

Now the soul consists of the mind, will and emotions. Today in Pt. 1, we will discuss the mind. The mind is pretty much the control center for our actions. Thoughts enter the mind and then we act on the thought by saying or doing. Essentially, the mind is considered a battleground where faith, temptation, and transformation occur. Joyce Meyer has a great book called “Battlefield of the Mind.” This book instructs believers on how to win the Battle in your mind by lining up our thought with God’s thoughts. Our mind has to be retrained, sanctified or renewed. And only the Holy Spirit can do this, but we have to do our part as well. We work in conjunction with the Holy Spirit. Romans 12:2 implies that the mind can be sanctified and aligned with God’s will through spiritual transformation. How? By actively seeking God’s truth and allowing His Word to shape your thoughts and perspectives.  This means, yep you got it, getting into the word. Romans 12:2 CEV Don't be like the people of this world, but let God change the way you think. Then you will know how to do everything that is good and pleasing to him.  

So today, I want you to pick your Life Scripture. What’s a Life Scripture?  A Life scripture is one that will define your mission and/or inspire your journey. To find your life scripture, follow these steps: Begin with praying & asking God to lead you to a verse that will speak to your heart and guide your path 119:105 NIV say Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. Reflect on your journey thus far or consider any challenges and triumphs in your life. Are there any areas where you need to seek God’s wisdom, comfort or encouragement? Ask God and He will show you. Matt 7:7-8 NIV says Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. 8 For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened. Look for Resonance. Notice the scriptures that resonate with your heart and spirit. A life scripture will often give you a sense of peace, clarity, and alignment with God's purpose for your life. Don’t be anxious if you cannot find it right away, just continue to pray and trust God. Phil 4:6 CEV says Don't worry about anything, but pray about everything. With thankful hearts offer up your prayers and requests to God.  Think about themes, like faith, love, hope or any concerns you want to address like fear, anger, insecurity that slows you down in moving forward. Isa 41:13 CEV is my life scripture which says I am the Lord your God. I am holding your hand, so don't be afraid. I am here to help you. About a year ago, whenever I would set out to do something new that God had instructed me to do, I would experience fear which would slow me down; thus, the reason for this scripture. Now once you’ve found your life scripture or scriptures, embrace it fully. Memorize it, write it down, and keep it in a place where you can see it daily, print them out to place in a frame and put up in your office or bedroom. Let it be a constant reminder and source of inspiration😊

Today I want to add to our essentials in building our Spirit man, the action of Fasting. Fasting is the voluntary abstinence from food (or other things, like TV, Internet, talking on the phone, social media, etc.)  We want to Fast from any distraction that takes our attention away from God. Fasting is done for a specified period, to focus on spiritual growth, self-reflection and seeking God's presence. Now for our action steps: Be Intentional (that is one of our necessities for this podcast)-Be clear on your purpose and specific prayer points for the fast. Pray and seek God's guidance on the type and duration of the fast. Plan meals around fasting times, or have plenty of water available; also consider alkaline water and/or mineral drops to add to the water. During the fast, dedicate more time to prayer, worship, reading the Bible and journaling. Minimize distractions (another one of our necessities for this podcast) Keep it to yourself! You do not have to go around broadcasting it. Matthew 6:16-18 NIVsays 16 “When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 17 But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, 18 so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. Don’t forget, the whole purpose for fasting is to focus on spiritual growth, self-reflection and seeking God's presence. It is not necessary to let everyone know. When you come off of the fast, gradually re-introduce your body to light foods, like a bowl of chicken noodle or vegetable soup. Reflect on what the Holy Spirit showed you during your fasting time; did he lead you to a scripture to read, did you journal a specific bible verse, was a certain praise & worship song in your mind? Offer prayers of thanksgiving for the spiritual growth and insights gained.

Last week’s discussion focused on Deepening your connection with God; if you have not listened, please circle back and tune in.  Today, our discussion will focus on Engaging in practices that will strengthen your faith There are many ways to engage yourself in fellowship and community, but today I want to discuss just three: Join a Faith Community. This is something that most of us are already doing, I hope; and that is being involved in church or participate regularly in worship services and church events. This includes going to regular service, worship services, church revivals, bible studies and small prayer groups. Cultivate accountable relationships. Accountability in the Bible symbolizes responsibility, stewardship, and the interconnectedness of the community of believers. The Bible emphasizes that individuals are not only accountable to God but also to one another. Romans 14:1 CEV And so each of us must give an account to God for what we do. This verse underscores the idea that we are responsible & accountable for our actions before God.   Galatians 6:1-2 CEV My friends, you are spiritual. So, if someone is trapped in sin, you should gently lead that person back to the right path. But watch out, and don't be tempted yourself. 2 You obey the law of Christ when you offer each other a helping hand.  This passage highlights the communal aspect of accountability, where believers are called to support and help one another in their spiritual walk.  So, find a more mature believer who can be your spiritual mentor; or a person to share experiences, challenges and victories with, i.e. a peer support. Serve others by using your gifts to volunteer within your church or community. Look for opportunities to bless others showing the Love of God in you, by performing acts of kindness.

Now for the nitty gritty, or the most important aspects of building up your spiritual man. Now Building your spirit man goes beyond establishing healthy mindsets & thoughts. In light of this, to include your entire spiritual being, there are 2 mandatory things that are essential: Deepening your connection with God Engaging in practices that will strengthen your faith. Daily scripture reading. You can begin with a verse or a chapter daily. It doesn’t matter, just as long as you are consistent with daily action.  As you continue, and begin to develop longevity, the Holy Spirit will give you the yearning or Thirst to do a little more! May I suggest to focus on short manageable sections to prevent getting overwhelmed. I love the book of Proverbs, because it teaches on Wisdom about everything.  The Contemperary English version (CEV) is one of my favorite versions. Pick yours! Reflection and Journaling: Now prayerfully, you have been obedient with having your necessities in proximity, as instructed in episode 1. You are, not only in your clutter free area without distractions, but also, you have your bible (tangible or electrical) and your journal/notebook with your pen/pencil and highlighter. Write down insights, questions, and how the scriptures apply to your life. Study to get understanding. Think about joining a group to study the word or use study guides to delve deeper into the specific books of the bible. By studying, consistently, the holy spirit will bring clarity to you. While studying, write down key verses and commit to memory, especially those that address what you are searching for or what you are going through. Ps 119:105 NIV says Your word is a lamp for my feet, a light on my path. We know that a lamp gives off light, therefore this scripture is saying that the Word gives me light for which way to go or do. Apply the biblical principles that you’ve learned and be a doer of the word and not a hearer only as the scripture says in James 1:22. Share what you’ve learned with others to foster mutual growth. Prov 27:17 CEV says Just as iron sharpens iron, friends sharpen the minds of each other. As we conclude this session, I encourage you to continually cultivate a strong prayer life and immerse yourself in God's Word. These practices are foundational to building and transforming your spirit man.

Thoughts are important because they directly influence our emotions, behaviors, and decisions, essentially shaping our perception of the world and dictating how we navigate life; Listeners, “what we think" becomes "what we do," so we need to make our thought patterns, a powerful tool for creating positive change or overcoming challenges.  Now for our Action Step: Identify the thought you need to change When you get the thought, say “STOP IT!” say it out loud or to yourself, but say it. This will stop the irrational thought; you cannot think 2 thoughts at the same time! As we learned in episode, 3 ANTs or Automatic Negative Thoughts, make a covenant with God by turning the negative or irrational thought into an affirmation. REMINDER: IF YOU HAVE NOT LISTENED TO EPISODE 3, PLEASE GO BACK AND TUNE IN;  If this thought is stopping you from completing a task, turn your attention back to what you are trying to do; if you are not trying to complete a task and you are just having this thought, use your imagination to turn that negative thought into a positive vision. For example: imagine yourself laying on a beach in the warm sand with the sun beaming and the ocean waves flowing in and out. Calmly repeat this process every time you get an unhealthy thought.

I want to discuss 5 ANTs or automatic negative thoughts. Always Thinking: This happens when you think something that happened will always repeat itself. He’ll never stop drinking or getting high Focusing on the Negative: this occurs when your thoughts only see the bad in a situation and ignore any of the good that might happen. -He is late picking me up, which means I’ll be up all evening cooking dinner; (not realizing he is late because he stopped to get her a dozen of roses to give her when he pulls up) Fortune-telling: this is when you predict the worst possible outcome to a situation. -I’m not wearing this dress because people will laugh at me or think I look inappropriate. Mind Reading: this happens when you believe you know what another person is thinking when they haven’t even told you. A lot of people do mind reading and more often than none, it gets them in trouble. -She didn’t say good morning to me today; she is mad at me. Thinking with your feelings: This occurs when you believe your negative feelings without ever questioning them. - I probably won’t get the job anyway so I am not going to apply.

Action Step:  Write down in your notebook or journal the challenges, attitudes or mindsets that have gotten in the way of your progression.  Find the scripture in the bible regarding the challenge/attitude/mindset. Write it down. Writing it down creates a Personal Connection to the material, further aiding memory retention. Read it out loud 3 times. This is called Active Engagement. Writing information down forces you to engage actively with the material rather than passively reading it. This active involvement helps reinforce memory retention.

Holistic is defined as encompassing the whole of a thing, and not just the part; as far as this podcast, the spirit, soul, & body; all 3 and not just one. So, we are setting out to begin our journey and there are some essential requirements that are necessary: (don’t worry, not for this episode, but for upcoming episodes) Your Bible Notebook or journal Pen/pencil and highlighter Intentionality-to be deliberate, conscious & purposeful Faith- Heb 11:1 TLB version says faith is the confident assurance of something we want is going to happen. It is the certainty that what we hope for is waiting for us, even though we cannot see it ahead. Expectation- a strong belief that something will happen  Let me bring to your attention 3 sneaky distractions: Listening & not doing. And yes, we should be listening & doing/participating.  There is no since in listening and not doing! How are we going to make a holistic change without acting! Remember, I said that one of the items listed above that we need for each of these podcast sessions is faith. James 2:14 NLT version says What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? The scripture also goes on to say in verse 17 that Faith without the works is dead and useless. Listening in an area or room that is cluttered.  Clutter creates visual distractions, constantly drawing your attention away from your study material, making it harder to stay focused on the task at hand. 1Cor 14:33 NIV says God is not a God of disorder but of peace. Some Christians believe that maintaining a clean and organized space reflects God's order and discipline in creation. Unbelief/Doubt. I pray that everyone that is listening to this podcast, is not only a believer, but also believes that God’s Word is true? This will also be a distraction if you think that the bible is just a story book from the past about how this great guy named Jesus walked the earth healing and performing miracles. Heb 13:8 NIV says Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.  This means that healing is still taking place, deliverance is still taking place, miracles are still taking place! The bible is not a la carte, where you can pick & choose what is true. Listeners, if you want to see and experience a holistic change, in the spirit, soul and body, then true change begins internally; it starts by what’s on the inside of you. If you want to see change outwardly, it has to begin on the inside…your attitude, thoughts and expectations.   

In each of us lies a profound desire—a thirst for a holistic change that honors God and transforms our spirit, soul, and body." Welcome to Thirst for a holistic change, where every step of your journey is intentional and each choice brings you closer to wholeness.  I’m your host Sheryl Tyner and this podcast is intended to give you, the listener, droplets of information to set you on a path to a healthier, more whole & restored “you” So, if you want to quench your Thirst for a holistic change, join us on January 19th with a community of believers committed to living fully, authentically, & joyfully.  Embrace the journey & transfigure your life through Christ. This, is your moment to Thrive! music credits: Music by Aleksandr Abrosimov from Pixabay

It has been 53 episodes of Thirst with Sheryl.  We started out a year ago & it was made known that the podcast sessions were dedicated to my beloved mother, Alice Harriston, who went home to be with the Lord on October 15, 2023.  I then set out on the journey of doing a weekly podcast, with God’s help beginning, December 26, 2023 ending with this podcast on today, December 16, 2024…53 episodes! God has been faithful and has kept me through many challenges with my work, health & my personal life.  To God be the Glory! Hebrews 2:1 NIV We must pay the most careful attention to what we have heard so that we do not drift away. 2 Tim 3:16-17 NIV all scripture is God breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.

Have you ever thought about the fact that you have breath, in your lungs, in your body, when you wake up? Therefore you can function! Do not take this for granted! And because we have breath in our lungs, what better thing is there to do, than to praise him, by saying, thank you God for waking me up this morning?  We are the recipients of the benefit of new mercies, that God gives us, every morning. Lam 3:22-23 ERV says the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness .

This is what the Holy Spirit told me, “Sheryl there is not one human that you can totally trust in; I don’t care if it is your family, friend, spouse, Pastor. & Guess what, they can’t totally trust you either; But you can trust & depend on Me!” Ps 118:8 Easy Read Version says, It is better to trust in the Lord than to trust in people. The KJV says it like this, It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.   Action step: 1. Ask God to help you fully understand this and to allow Him to be placed as a higher priority in your heart; 2. Listen to this podcast episode again; 3. Affirm: Lord you are my only guarantee and I place my confidence in You! Remember: Proverbs 3:5-6 NKJV says Trust in the Lord with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; 6 In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths.

Will you choose to mend? Listeners, we are deep into the season of autumn; and the falling leaves, serve as a natural reminder that letting go is a necessary part of life's cycle, making room for new growth and renewal. Just like trees shed their leaves to prepare for spring growth, we too as born-again believers must shed our bitterness, resentment, & holding of grudges to make room for spiritual growth.

Lamentations 3:22-23 ESV says The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; 23 they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.  Steadfast according to Merriam-Webster,  means firmly fixed in place, immovable, and not subject to change .  Therefore, God’s love for us is firmly fixed in place, immovable and not subject to change . I want listeners to get that fixed in your mind! The verse continues by saying his mercies never come to an end.  Mercy is not receiving something you do deserve.

There are many biblical definitions of wilderness, one being, an uncultivated and uninhabited region; another definition, is a state of disorder.   In this wilderness or like the example above, the desert, there is no one that will listen to you complain, no one that will sympathize with you, no one who can help you by sending you a mode of transportation, an air conditioner, a heater, or even a meal etc.  It is just you & God in the desert, in your wilderness.  Hopefully, by now, you can identify. Either, you remember a time when you were in the wilderness, or you may even be in your wilderness right now. It could be a job loss, severe illness, multiple deaths of loved ones, marital turmoil, wayward children, financial burdens, etc. Remember part of the definition of wilderness is a state of disorder. And in the wilderness, there is usually such a state of disorder, that it is simply impossible for you to get out. In Mat 19:26, Jesus was speaking to his disciples. The NIV says, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”

Patience is a behavior showing high moral standards.  The phrase “Patience is a virtue” means it's a good quality to be patient and tolerate delays, pain, or misfortune without losing your temper. Self-Control is a behavior where one is able to exercise restraint and/or keep composure. And let me remind you that both patience and self-control are fruit of the Spirit.  The fruit of the spirit is a set of attributes that the Holy Spirit develops in people who have accepted Jesus Christ as their savior.  Supporting scripture, Gal 5:22-23 The CEV reads as such, God's Spirit makes us loving, happy, peaceful, patient, kind, good, faithful, gentle, and self-controlled. There is no law against behaving in any of these ways.    

Ok let’s get right to it. The Big T, Truth!  The truth cannot be suppressed or hidden. Truth is indestructible. People may refuse to face the truth, they can disguise the truth, they may try to ignore the truth or even refuse to accept the truth. Although truth is not always favored, it is ALWAYS RIGHT!  And guess what? truth always wins in the end!

You see not only do we need to read, study & meditate on the word of God to help bear fruit, but we also need each other in the body of Christ. Prov 27:17 NIV As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.

Just as the tomatoes, peppers and watermelon need the calcium, watering, & moisture to develop fruit, we as Christians need to read/meditate on the Word, develop intimacy, prayer time, and worship with other believers; if not, we too, will be deficient in developing our fruit. 

So here is a faith exercise, for casting all your cares, worries & anxieties, so that you, we, can enter into His REST.  Remember faith without works is dead in other words, listeners, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead Write down a list of everything in your life that is causing you stress/worry/anxiety. Just a suggestion, write each worry separately on a piece of paper, because at times it takes us a minute to give certain things to God. Be honest & transparent with yourself, because God already knows what is causing you unrest. Nobody has to know, just you and your Daddy. Once you have it on a piece of paper, AFFIRM out loud, “God I give my worrying of my daughter over to you. Then your action step is to Ball up that piece of paper, and toss it into the trash can.  And receive rest.  Receive inward quietness, composure & peace.

First, let me just clarify that rest does not mean sleep, inactivity or stillness. Biblically, the meaning for rest is to be inwardly quiet, composed, peaceful. Verse 10 tells us that even God ceased from his own works to rest.  Verse 11 tells us to labor to enter that same rest. Now if God entered into the rest, what makes us think that we don’t need to enter into that same rest? Aren’t we God’s children? I mean, aren’t we supposed to, “Act like our Daddy?”