Thought I'd give an update for anyone who follows my journey through this.
Last I posted in regards to my health about a month and a half ago, I had just started the reintroduction phase of the elimination diet I'm on. I had also recently started a new herbal protocol instead of antibiotics for my Lyme Disease. One or both of those changes caused me to decline. Since then a lot has happened.
I'm at 83 days of eating only organic, non-gmo, antibiotic/hormone free. 83 days of not eating outside of home even once. 83 days of pretty much meats, veggies, healthy fats, and a bit of fruit.
I told myself I'd be extremely strict through at least 90 days. Just so happens day 90 is my day of travel in which it will be harder to eat so strict. I'm still going to stick to it as much as possible but I'm no longer going to pass up on a social opportunity in order to stick to my diet.
So what I've discovered after the 1 month of completely eliminating and 2 months of reintroducing foods is my body reacts to almost everything in different ways. Since I obviously can't live off of nothing, it's decided what is best for me for now is still all organic, non-gmo, antibiotic/hormone free- meats, veggies, healthy fates and a bit of fruit... but I can add to that a couple types of beans and a couple types of nuts. What I am to continue to not have due to worse reactions are nightshade veggies (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant), lime (I had no idea that bothered me until doing this!), dairy, corn, oats, some beans, some nuts. Gluten was an absolute no and not even a reintroduction.
I have to re-re-introduce some things again to figure out if I can tolerate them or not. That's because with my ongoing symptoms it's hard to determine what was food affecting me and what was lyme/MG/etc. Those foods I reintroduced but have to again are peanuts, soy, other gluten free grains, other legumes and pork.
Through this I discovered one more thing, bigger than all this other stuff. You see, I've had this huge bubble like thing in my stomach for probably years now. No doctor can tell me what it is or what to do about it, nor has anyone ordered any testing on it. It's like a bunch of sloshing water that doesn't go anywhere except staying in my stomach. Sometimes it's worse, other times it's better. Other people can hear it. A lot of times it affects my breathing by putting pressure on my diaphragm, that was the worst part. During this diet, it got worse. Well I finally decided google was in order, and my doctor agrees I seem to have figured it out...
Fructose intolerance! Who knew such a thing even existed? What this means is my body cannot tolerate/digest fructose properly. So as I was going through this diet, due to such restrictions, I was eating more fruit than normal, that means more fructose. I was also eating more avocado and broccoli than normal, more fructose. I had no idea how fructose is in so many things naturally. So now in addition to this very limited diet, it is becoming more limited as I have to very much watch my fructose. I have a list of foods that are high in fructose, and those are the foods I need to avoid. I've already seen the benefit, but it's hard because I feel like I'm lacking nutrients. Back to taking a multi-vitamin on top of everything else.
I'm not trying to lose weight but I'm down 9 lbs from when I started... and I was already eating healthy before that, this just took it up a notch! People may think I'm getting too thin but the thing is this is probably what normal is if everyone ate this way. And hey if you are looking to lose weight, skip all the fad diets, and stick to this! Aside from a cold or something I have going on now, I was starting to improve a little bit. My doctor thinks the longer I keep with this the greater benefits I will see.
And so I conclude...
You see, none of us should be eating the garbage mistakenly called food, pretty much anything in a box or from a restaurant. The benefit to not eating that stuff, not eating anything GMO (genetically modified) is that it will help your health in the long run, maybe even immediate if you make a drastic change. It will be harder at first as it was for me, as your body adapts, but it's worth toughing it out. Regular chicken, beef, etc. most of the time was treated with hormones and antibiotics. That means we are ingesting that. Too many antibiotics is what leads to resistance and then you can't treat a serious illness. Too many antibiotics also leads to yeast overgrowth/candida which can ultimately harm every and any organ or system in your body. Ingesting additional hormones will mess with our own hormones. Ingesting non-organic means that stuff was sprayed with pesticides and who knows what other toxic chemicals. These chemicals are harmful to your health and can cause serious illnesses over time. Ingesting gmo foods means that "food" was genetically modified/processed, you aren't even eating food anymore. All of this adds up and contributes to a wide range of illnesses, obesity, mental health and a weakened immune system that won't be able to fight as well if something bad does hit.
One thing that REALLY bugs me is this. This is a "fix-it" society. Why not prevent it before it starts?? YOU have the power to do so. Eating truly healthier in the ways described will help you take care of the one and only body you were given. Giving up those sweets, snacks, hot chocolate, soda, candy, fast food, etc. is investing in your health and probably giving you more years of life. It will almost certainly help you from getting sick as often or as serious. I wish I knew all this before I got sick. But now instead I have to try to reverse it by doing this after the fact. If you aren't yet sick, do it now!
And if I don't write again before then, Merry Christmas!! God bless and eat healthy!
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Monday, December 14, 2015
Originally Posted: Happiness
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: September 24, 2013
Happiness?
I'm so happy. I didn't come here to be happy, in fact I thought I'd be everything but. I thought I'd be miserable. Furthermore, I was in no way looking for happiness, searching for it, trying for it, not even really thinking about it. Happiness- it's an emotion- it's fleeting. But, I'm happy.
Why am I happy? I'm happy because of Jesus. I have Jesus. I found Jesus. I devote my attention on Him and he blesses me with such goodness. I'm going through the absolute toughest times in my life with everything that many of you don't even know the start of because I can't talk about it on here. But in the toughest time I feel the most comfort, the most peace, the most relief, the most happiness. And it has absolutely nothing to do with or without anybody or anything else. It is completely irrelevant to any external matters.
Happiness isn't about how many "things" you have, how much money you have, what job you have or if you even have a job, not even about your family and friends. Any single one of these things can be gone in an instant. If your happiness was based on that person or that thing, and it leaves, then what? You are left without happiness.
Happiness, as in true joy, it is from within. When you repent your sins and turn to Jesus and make Him your Lord and Savior, following Him always in the mist of all you go through, the Holy Spirit lives within you. It's in the inside! This means no matter what you encounter in life, you always have that peace, comfort and joy from within. You can turn off all that is external and turn inward.
You can blame unhappiness on another, void things and people from your life thinking it'll take care of the problem, entirely up and change everything about yourself, but it all doesn't matter if you don't truly have Jesus. Without Him, happiness- it's fleeting. It'll come, it'll go, it won't last and it won't be the true and lifetime joy you can experience with Jesus in your heart.
I do not fear my circumstances when I focus my heart and mind on Jesus. I know what lies ahead for me after my short time on this planet. I know where I'm going because I know I am saved. I said Yes to Jesus and He said Yes to me! It's a love like never before. I just want everyone to experience and feel that love. Love and be loved. Really, that's all it comes down to.
"The Second is this 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no command greater than these." Mark 12:31
Here's a challenge for all of you that leads kind of into a new topic I will talk about at a later time... Do you listen to Christian music? K-love radio station for example? If not, try to. Try to for 30 days. K-love gives this exact challenge for their station. Listen for 30 days and see if/how it blesses you. Being a Christian means putting Jesus first. Are you doing that? Are you doing that in every aspect of your life? Start right here by one simple change. I hope it blesses you immensely and brings you into a transformation you couldn't even imagine, that you ultimately then find your happiness also. http://www.klove.com/
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 1 Peter 3:14
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: September 24, 2013
Happiness?
I'm so happy. I didn't come here to be happy, in fact I thought I'd be everything but. I thought I'd be miserable. Furthermore, I was in no way looking for happiness, searching for it, trying for it, not even really thinking about it. Happiness- it's an emotion- it's fleeting. But, I'm happy.
Why am I happy? I'm happy because of Jesus. I have Jesus. I found Jesus. I devote my attention on Him and he blesses me with such goodness. I'm going through the absolute toughest times in my life with everything that many of you don't even know the start of because I can't talk about it on here. But in the toughest time I feel the most comfort, the most peace, the most relief, the most happiness. And it has absolutely nothing to do with or without anybody or anything else. It is completely irrelevant to any external matters.
Happiness isn't about how many "things" you have, how much money you have, what job you have or if you even have a job, not even about your family and friends. Any single one of these things can be gone in an instant. If your happiness was based on that person or that thing, and it leaves, then what? You are left without happiness.
Happiness, as in true joy, it is from within. When you repent your sins and turn to Jesus and make Him your Lord and Savior, following Him always in the mist of all you go through, the Holy Spirit lives within you. It's in the inside! This means no matter what you encounter in life, you always have that peace, comfort and joy from within. You can turn off all that is external and turn inward.
You can blame unhappiness on another, void things and people from your life thinking it'll take care of the problem, entirely up and change everything about yourself, but it all doesn't matter if you don't truly have Jesus. Without Him, happiness- it's fleeting. It'll come, it'll go, it won't last and it won't be the true and lifetime joy you can experience with Jesus in your heart.
I do not fear my circumstances when I focus my heart and mind on Jesus. I know what lies ahead for me after my short time on this planet. I know where I'm going because I know I am saved. I said Yes to Jesus and He said Yes to me! It's a love like never before. I just want everyone to experience and feel that love. Love and be loved. Really, that's all it comes down to.
"The Second is this 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no command greater than these." Mark 12:31
Here's a challenge for all of you that leads kind of into a new topic I will talk about at a later time... Do you listen to Christian music? K-love radio station for example? If not, try to. Try to for 30 days. K-love gives this exact challenge for their station. Listen for 30 days and see if/how it blesses you. Being a Christian means putting Jesus first. Are you doing that? Are you doing that in every aspect of your life? Start right here by one simple change. I hope it blesses you immensely and brings you into a transformation you couldn't even imagine, that you ultimately then find your happiness also. http://www.klove.com/
But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear their threats; do not be frightened.” 1 Peter 3:14
Monday, December 7, 2015
Originally Posted: Salvation Debate
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: September 13, 2013
Salvation Debate
So for some time now, God's been telling me to write on a certain topic. As you can see, I haven't written on this blog in quite some time. The main reason was I was unsure what to write. I don't know why I'm doubting. If God says "write" I'm sure once I start typing He will give me the words to send out. This is also a topic of controversy, but that shouldn't matter, since ultimately if I'm doing what God wants that's what matters.
Today a friend asked me something that had to do with Catholicism. This got me rattling off to her all about something which I later realized was the exact topic God told me to write about. God was definitely using my friend as a means to get through to me. It worked. So, here it goes...
Within Christianity, there are many denominations. Some Protestant Christians believe Catholicism isn't a Christian denomination. What I feel God wants me to do here is briefly describe some of the differences so that those reading can take that and go find out for themselves.
One major topic which I feel is the one God wants me to touch on is that of salvation- I mean that is pretty much the most important topic right? Our life here on Earth is extremely short compared to that which we cannot even fathom, that of eternity- are we going to spend it in Heaven?
Catholicism believes that you have to get baptized- preferably as a baby (and receive the other sacraments), have faith/trust in Jesus, and you must do good works all in order to be saved. Christianity outside of Catholicism believes in salvation by grace through faith alone.
So does salvation come through good works or through faith alone? The major conflict here is that one says you HAVE to do something in order to be saved. The other says that salvation is through faith alone. Are you going to get into Heaven without doing good works? I don't think you are. BUT I don't think that's the question to answer here. Why? Because of this... If you are saved by faith alone, ultimately you will be transformed into wanting to do good. So the result here is that both groups are striving to do good.
Still that doesn't answer it. But I'm not going to answer it. I'm not God. My advice is to search for your own answer. However, I must say, keep this in mind. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. For OUR sins. We were forgiven right there... for all the wrong that we would do in the future. We are human, we are sinners. We needed a Savior, Jesus Christ. A Savior. Dissect that thought right there.
I think that's all He wants me to write for now. I hope this makes someone out there, preferably many someones, want to go search for the answers themselves. Research your religion. Read the Bible. Find your answers in the Bible. Is what you've been taught found in the Bible? Does it need to be found in the Bible? If it's not, who taught it and what does that mean in regards to what you believe in? Do you have a religion or do you have a relationship with Jesus? Is Jesus in your heart?
God bless you.
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. -James 2:14-17
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: September 13, 2013
Salvation Debate
So for some time now, God's been telling me to write on a certain topic. As you can see, I haven't written on this blog in quite some time. The main reason was I was unsure what to write. I don't know why I'm doubting. If God says "write" I'm sure once I start typing He will give me the words to send out. This is also a topic of controversy, but that shouldn't matter, since ultimately if I'm doing what God wants that's what matters.
Today a friend asked me something that had to do with Catholicism. This got me rattling off to her all about something which I later realized was the exact topic God told me to write about. God was definitely using my friend as a means to get through to me. It worked. So, here it goes...
Within Christianity, there are many denominations. Some Protestant Christians believe Catholicism isn't a Christian denomination. What I feel God wants me to do here is briefly describe some of the differences so that those reading can take that and go find out for themselves.
One major topic which I feel is the one God wants me to touch on is that of salvation- I mean that is pretty much the most important topic right? Our life here on Earth is extremely short compared to that which we cannot even fathom, that of eternity- are we going to spend it in Heaven?
Catholicism believes that you have to get baptized- preferably as a baby (and receive the other sacraments), have faith/trust in Jesus, and you must do good works all in order to be saved. Christianity outside of Catholicism believes in salvation by grace through faith alone.
So does salvation come through good works or through faith alone? The major conflict here is that one says you HAVE to do something in order to be saved. The other says that salvation is through faith alone. Are you going to get into Heaven without doing good works? I don't think you are. BUT I don't think that's the question to answer here. Why? Because of this... If you are saved by faith alone, ultimately you will be transformed into wanting to do good. So the result here is that both groups are striving to do good.
Still that doesn't answer it. But I'm not going to answer it. I'm not God. My advice is to search for your own answer. However, I must say, keep this in mind. Jesus died on the cross for our sins. For OUR sins. We were forgiven right there... for all the wrong that we would do in the future. We are human, we are sinners. We needed a Savior, Jesus Christ. A Savior. Dissect that thought right there.
I think that's all He wants me to write for now. I hope this makes someone out there, preferably many someones, want to go search for the answers themselves. Research your religion. Read the Bible. Find your answers in the Bible. Is what you've been taught found in the Bible? Does it need to be found in the Bible? If it's not, who taught it and what does that mean in regards to what you believe in? Do you have a religion or do you have a relationship with Jesus? Is Jesus in your heart?
God bless you.
What good is it, my brothers and sisters, if someone claims to have faith but has no deeds? Can such faith save them? Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, “Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,” but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it? In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead. -James 2:14-17
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast. -Ephesians 2:8-9
Friday, December 4, 2015
Originally Posted: The Time is Now
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 26, 2013
The Time is Now
In noticing that my views (how many people read my blog) on this blog are much less than my views on my other/health blog, I came to ponder the thought, why is it that so many don't want a God-centered life? Why is it that so many run from anything having to do with God? Why is God avoided?
In few discussions, much reading, and much thought on this, I've come across various reasons... "not ready", "don't want to", "God will limit me", wanting control and fearing the loss of that by giving your life to God, not believing, thinking you can do it on your own, thinking there is a better "way", thinking God is only for people who need help with something, believing evolution over God, not caring... etc. etc.
What have you got to lose by giving yourself to God? Really. Please answer that in your own thoughts. What have you got to lose?
Thinking you can do it on your own? You can do all things... through Christ who strengthens you. You must give of yourself to receive Him. God created this world, this entire world and everything within it. Don't you want someone like that on your side? If God is for us, who can be against us.
Thinking God is only for people who need help with something? Everyone needs help with something at some time. God is our strength. But in addition, we shouldn't "turn to God" in times of need. We should instead be putting God first at ALL times. We should be thanking Him continually for the gifts He has given us. We should be thanking Him through our struggles and especially after He brings us through them. God is love. And love makes the world go around doesn't it? Too many look at love as a feeling when instead it is an action. Go deliver it. God is for everyone.
Maybe you don't believe because in the past it hasn't "worked out" for you. Guess what? It hasn't "worked out" for anyone 100% of the time. If you give up now you might be giving up literally right before your blessing arrives. It is God's time remember, and God's plan. We must have faith and follow Him and trust in Him that His plan is coming together for the best. Nothing will make perfect sense because God is the only one who can see it all, the past the present and the future and how it all comes together. Trust in Him.
Don't know how? Just start talking. Talk to God like you would a friend or family member- your closest one. If you really think He doesn't exist or you think He doesn't care, then really what have you got to lose here? And if you do believe in Him but are scared, don't be. Just talk. Tell Him what is on your mind. Tell Him your concerns. Tell Him you struggle with your faith and belief. Ask Him for guidance. Ask Him to come into your life. Make Him your God, your Lord, your Savior. Tell Him you love Him and give yourself to Him. And then listen. Always have your ears and heart open to hear Him. Follow Him. The Holy Spirit will lead you.
It's sad that society today is not only quiet about God but actually trying to rid Him from our lives... taking away prayer in schools, telling churches and organizations they have to cover certain healthcare that go against their beliefs... ok I'm not going to get into a political discussion here. But it's really sad how people are trying to remove God from life when LIFE is FROM GOD. People can try and try and try but God is and was and always will be bigger than anyone and anything. God will overcome evil. However, we as Christians must stand together and continue to stand together and stand up for our beliefs. We must stand up for Jesus...we must stand up for truth... Jesus is the way, the truth, the life. He got nailed to a cross for US. The least we could do is stand up for Him. Talk about Him. Witness to others. Lead others to know Christ.
Maybe you fear that you've already done too much wrong, sinned too bad. Guess what? God is the ONLY one who can save you from that sin. We are ALL sinners. Every single one of us. Don't compare yourself to another. Just strive to live like Jesus. Repent of your sins, ask God for forgiveness, welcome Jesus into your heart, and then follow Him. Jesus got nailed to the cross. Jesus took the punishment of our sins for us! We are forgiven! Here's the thing, even if you don't repent of your sins and don't choose God, God already knows everything! He knows what you are hiding, He knows the truth to what you are lying about, He knows your sins, He knows your heart. God already knows. So you aren't hiding anything by "keeping it from Him." So it's best we choose the ONLY way to Heaven, Jesus.
We're not going to be judged on the clothing we wear, the makeup we own, how many shoes we have, what type of car we drive, how many promotions at work we got... let go of worldly things. Change your focus to that of Christ. Have a Christ-centered, God-centered life. Put God first and He will bless you with the desires of your heart. Or don't put Him first and risk that your judgement day will come sooner than expected and it will be too late to have a change of heart. We never know when our time will come. So the time to choose God is now.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 26, 2013
The Time is Now
In noticing that my views (how many people read my blog) on this blog are much less than my views on my other/health blog, I came to ponder the thought, why is it that so many don't want a God-centered life? Why is it that so many run from anything having to do with God? Why is God avoided?
In few discussions, much reading, and much thought on this, I've come across various reasons... "not ready", "don't want to", "God will limit me", wanting control and fearing the loss of that by giving your life to God, not believing, thinking you can do it on your own, thinking there is a better "way", thinking God is only for people who need help with something, believing evolution over God, not caring... etc. etc.
What have you got to lose by giving yourself to God? Really. Please answer that in your own thoughts. What have you got to lose?
Thinking you can do it on your own? You can do all things... through Christ who strengthens you. You must give of yourself to receive Him. God created this world, this entire world and everything within it. Don't you want someone like that on your side? If God is for us, who can be against us.
Thinking God is only for people who need help with something? Everyone needs help with something at some time. God is our strength. But in addition, we shouldn't "turn to God" in times of need. We should instead be putting God first at ALL times. We should be thanking Him continually for the gifts He has given us. We should be thanking Him through our struggles and especially after He brings us through them. God is love. And love makes the world go around doesn't it? Too many look at love as a feeling when instead it is an action. Go deliver it. God is for everyone.
Maybe you don't believe because in the past it hasn't "worked out" for you. Guess what? It hasn't "worked out" for anyone 100% of the time. If you give up now you might be giving up literally right before your blessing arrives. It is God's time remember, and God's plan. We must have faith and follow Him and trust in Him that His plan is coming together for the best. Nothing will make perfect sense because God is the only one who can see it all, the past the present and the future and how it all comes together. Trust in Him.
Don't know how? Just start talking. Talk to God like you would a friend or family member- your closest one. If you really think He doesn't exist or you think He doesn't care, then really what have you got to lose here? And if you do believe in Him but are scared, don't be. Just talk. Tell Him what is on your mind. Tell Him your concerns. Tell Him you struggle with your faith and belief. Ask Him for guidance. Ask Him to come into your life. Make Him your God, your Lord, your Savior. Tell Him you love Him and give yourself to Him. And then listen. Always have your ears and heart open to hear Him. Follow Him. The Holy Spirit will lead you.
It's sad that society today is not only quiet about God but actually trying to rid Him from our lives... taking away prayer in schools, telling churches and organizations they have to cover certain healthcare that go against their beliefs... ok I'm not going to get into a political discussion here. But it's really sad how people are trying to remove God from life when LIFE is FROM GOD. People can try and try and try but God is and was and always will be bigger than anyone and anything. God will overcome evil. However, we as Christians must stand together and continue to stand together and stand up for our beliefs. We must stand up for Jesus...we must stand up for truth... Jesus is the way, the truth, the life. He got nailed to a cross for US. The least we could do is stand up for Him. Talk about Him. Witness to others. Lead others to know Christ.
Maybe you fear that you've already done too much wrong, sinned too bad. Guess what? God is the ONLY one who can save you from that sin. We are ALL sinners. Every single one of us. Don't compare yourself to another. Just strive to live like Jesus. Repent of your sins, ask God for forgiveness, welcome Jesus into your heart, and then follow Him. Jesus got nailed to the cross. Jesus took the punishment of our sins for us! We are forgiven! Here's the thing, even if you don't repent of your sins and don't choose God, God already knows everything! He knows what you are hiding, He knows the truth to what you are lying about, He knows your sins, He knows your heart. God already knows. So you aren't hiding anything by "keeping it from Him." So it's best we choose the ONLY way to Heaven, Jesus.
We're not going to be judged on the clothing we wear, the makeup we own, how many shoes we have, what type of car we drive, how many promotions at work we got... let go of worldly things. Change your focus to that of Christ. Have a Christ-centered, God-centered life. Put God first and He will bless you with the desires of your heart. Or don't put Him first and risk that your judgement day will come sooner than expected and it will be too late to have a change of heart. We never know when our time will come. So the time to choose God is now.
If you declare with your mouth, “Jesus is Lord,” and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9
Originally Posted: Healed
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 11, 2013
Healed
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 11, 2013
Healed
So this post is half for my other blog, half for this blog, but I have a feeling I need to post it here so that is what I am doing. I've been told to write this I think since yesterday. I put it off and said I would do it today. Then today rolled around and I'm worn out so I was thinking it's ok to do tomorrow. But then, I read a passage someone wrote to me, the same one I just talked on in my other blog. I took that as my cue to get on writing. I am including a link to my most recent post from my other blog here in case you want to read.
http://fightmg.blogspot.com/2013/08/medication-inclination.html
Anyways, I'm starting this new heart medication tomorrow. Yes, I'm a bit nervous considering my history of reaction to meds and its potential specifically in regards to MG. But I'm trying my best to give it up to God and trust completely 100% in Him.
So what I've been told to write on, and when I say told I am almost always referring to the voice of God I hear in my head... what I've been told to write on is... that I am healed.
I am healed. This is a bold statement to make. But I believe it, or I'm trying my best to believe it. Your thoughts lead to your future. God wants you to be positive. How can you have faith in Him if you talk negatively and expect the worst? God is able, in every sense of the way. God wants me healed. God will heal me. God has healed me. He knows my past, present and future. I want to be healed by God, not by medication. I will always praise Him for all things good in life.
So what are all these symptoms? Hey, maybe they take time to go away? All I know is I need to believe I am healed in order to be on the road to recovery. Full recovery. If God can take someone who had cancer and make that cancer disappear as some have reported... If God can take someone who is paralyzed and make them walk as some have reported... If God can create this entire world we live in... God can certainly heal me. And He will.
God wants you to dream big. He doesn't want you to ask for just the little things or think it's never going to happen. What message does that put out to him? That says I can't trust or don't trust that you will do this. We can't send that message. We need to send the message that we DO trust Him 100% and we know, we KNOW he wants the best for us. But at the same time we must ALWAYS send that glory up to Him, praise and thank Him, give Him the credit, not take it for ourselves.
Some can't turn their life to God because they think they will be giving it up, can't do it "their way." Well if only we all had the knowledge that we would want it the same that God wants it if we are gifted with the Holy Spirit and living in the Spirit. We want the best for us. He wants the best for us. The difference is, He KNOWS what's best for us. So let's give it up to Him and trust that He WILL take care of us. Always.
Back to that passage... He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
Lord, please Grant me faith the size of a mustard seed, and through that faith allow me to experience your healing in body and soul. Heal all areas of my life and the lives of my loved ones. Lord, please grant us all the trust to put You first, and glorify You in all good things we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
http://fightmg.blogspot.com/2013/08/medication-inclination.html
Anyways, I'm starting this new heart medication tomorrow. Yes, I'm a bit nervous considering my history of reaction to meds and its potential specifically in regards to MG. But I'm trying my best to give it up to God and trust completely 100% in Him.
So what I've been told to write on, and when I say told I am almost always referring to the voice of God I hear in my head... what I've been told to write on is... that I am healed.
I am healed. This is a bold statement to make. But I believe it, or I'm trying my best to believe it. Your thoughts lead to your future. God wants you to be positive. How can you have faith in Him if you talk negatively and expect the worst? God is able, in every sense of the way. God wants me healed. God will heal me. God has healed me. He knows my past, present and future. I want to be healed by God, not by medication. I will always praise Him for all things good in life.
So what are all these symptoms? Hey, maybe they take time to go away? All I know is I need to believe I am healed in order to be on the road to recovery. Full recovery. If God can take someone who had cancer and make that cancer disappear as some have reported... If God can take someone who is paralyzed and make them walk as some have reported... If God can create this entire world we live in... God can certainly heal me. And He will.
God wants you to dream big. He doesn't want you to ask for just the little things or think it's never going to happen. What message does that put out to him? That says I can't trust or don't trust that you will do this. We can't send that message. We need to send the message that we DO trust Him 100% and we know, we KNOW he wants the best for us. But at the same time we must ALWAYS send that glory up to Him, praise and thank Him, give Him the credit, not take it for ourselves.
Some can't turn their life to God because they think they will be giving it up, can't do it "their way." Well if only we all had the knowledge that we would want it the same that God wants it if we are gifted with the Holy Spirit and living in the Spirit. We want the best for us. He wants the best for us. The difference is, He KNOWS what's best for us. So let's give it up to Him and trust that He WILL take care of us. Always.
Back to that passage... He replied, “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you.” Matthew 17:20
Lord, please Grant me faith the size of a mustard seed, and through that faith allow me to experience your healing in body and soul. Heal all areas of my life and the lives of my loved ones. Lord, please grant us all the trust to put You first, and glorify You in all good things we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Originally Posted: Random Act of Love
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 4, 2013
Random Act of Love
When I was in the hospital for surgery I decided to do something. I read something that was inspiring. So I took it and taped it on a random page on the daily calendar hanging in the hospital room. My thought was that God would place a specific person in that room on that day who needed to read that message. I wanted to provide some encouragement to them, because I know how tough being in the hospital and being sick can be. This led me to want to do more.
I had three separate hospital stays even though it was just a couple days in between each one from March-April. Each time I requested that the Chaplain visit me and each time without request the Chaplain brought me a Bible. Two were the same, one was different. I didn't need two of the same Bibles, so I took one and placed it in a drawer of the night stand in the room and added a note on top of it. Again, my hope is that God leads the right person to pick that up and that it brings joy to their day.
Then when I was staying in the hotel with my parents for a wedding, I again wrote a small note of encouragement and left it hidden. Maybe housekeeping will find it, maybe a guest will find it... but I know again it will be the person God leads to be inspired by those words.
I decided I wanted to keep doing this. I will never know who picks it up, if and how it affects them. But knowing that I could possibly lead someone to Jesus is all I need to keep me wanting to do this. Since I physically can't do nearly what I would like to, this is my very tiny way of doing a simple random act of kindness... better yet, random act of love. God's love. I've recently started a few other things too but I'll speak of those at a later time.
So today, I was reading a book from the library. As I flipped the pages guess what I found? A note from someone!!! The person says they are praying for whoever reads this, that this book may bless that person and inspire them to devote their life to God. Signed- Sister in Christ. Amazing!
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: August 4, 2013
Random Act of Love
When I was in the hospital for surgery I decided to do something. I read something that was inspiring. So I took it and taped it on a random page on the daily calendar hanging in the hospital room. My thought was that God would place a specific person in that room on that day who needed to read that message. I wanted to provide some encouragement to them, because I know how tough being in the hospital and being sick can be. This led me to want to do more.
I had three separate hospital stays even though it was just a couple days in between each one from March-April. Each time I requested that the Chaplain visit me and each time without request the Chaplain brought me a Bible. Two were the same, one was different. I didn't need two of the same Bibles, so I took one and placed it in a drawer of the night stand in the room and added a note on top of it. Again, my hope is that God leads the right person to pick that up and that it brings joy to their day.
Then when I was staying in the hotel with my parents for a wedding, I again wrote a small note of encouragement and left it hidden. Maybe housekeeping will find it, maybe a guest will find it... but I know again it will be the person God leads to be inspired by those words.
I decided I wanted to keep doing this. I will never know who picks it up, if and how it affects them. But knowing that I could possibly lead someone to Jesus is all I need to keep me wanting to do this. Since I physically can't do nearly what I would like to, this is my very tiny way of doing a simple random act of kindness... better yet, random act of love. God's love. I've recently started a few other things too but I'll speak of those at a later time.
So today, I was reading a book from the library. As I flipped the pages guess what I found? A note from someone!!! The person says they are praying for whoever reads this, that this book may bless that person and inspire them to devote their life to God. Signed- Sister in Christ. Amazing!
Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back. Luke 6:38
Originally Posted: What's Your Choice?
***When I came back to Chicago nearly 3 years ago for my surgery, I started a blog as one place all family and friends could go to read updates on my health. I then realized it was also a way of promoting awareness. Shortly after that, I started a second blog, for the purpose of sharing my faith. As time went on, I became convicted about something.
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: July 15, 2013
What's Your Choice?
We are given our own free will. So we are allowed to choose the bad, the wrong, the evil, the devil. God doesn't want us to choose that route, but He will allow it so not to impose on the free will He has given us.
Why do people choose what is wrong, bad, evil, of the devil?
I used to think that of the devil could only mean severe things such as killing, robbery, etc. I never related it to everyday evils we barely notice because they are much too common... lying, pride, jealousy, talking poorly about others. Now I clearly know that to be Christian means ridding myself of those evils, striving to do so as much as possible, living in a way that is a reflection of Jesus.
People don't realize how much the devil is present in this world, in our lives. He is CONSTANTLY trying to pull us away from God, from doing what is right, what is good, what is true. He is constantly deceiving us into thinking the wrong way is the right way. He deceives us through every possible medium out there- the media, strangers, friends and even family. The devil can and will use anything and anyone to get to you with gossip, jealousy, lying, anger, division within families. He can talk you into anything... make you believe that you are doing right, doing well. It's all a bunch of lies.
How can we discern then what is of Christ and what is of the devil? Open your Bible. Read it. Study it. Discuss it with other Christians. The Bible tells us everything we need to know. So, if you are trying to discern what is of Christ- is it biblical? If so, it is most likely of Christ. If you can't find it in the Bible to back it up, consider the devil is trying to deceive you and bring you down to a place you don't ever want to go. The Bible isn't something where you can pick and choose how you please. Why? Because in following Jesus you must follow him completely, because if you pick and choose then you really aren't following him at all. You can't carry only half the cross and claim it as your ticket to Heaven.
So again why do we choose evil? For the pleasure, excitement, experience, etc. that we are deceived into thinking is worth it. Maybe we feel we want to experience ALL of life- the good and the bad. But consider this- there are enough struggles out there without creating your own. You will encounter both good and bad without making a choice of it. We are still experiencing all that is life... but while doing so we are making the choices to remain faithful and righteous. We are not missing out on anything but instead actually making the most of everything.
Maybe you just feel you can't give your life to Christ because you'd be giving up your own free will, that choice. But think about it this way. You ARE making a choice right now if you aren't choosing Christ. If you are choosing evil, or anything other than good, truth and Jesus, you are in fact choosing the devil. You are CHOOSING the devil. So if you fear that you will "submit your life to Christ" and give up all freedom, look at it in the other sense that right now you are submitting your life to the devil and giving up all freedom. It's one or the other. If you aren't giving your life to Christ you are allowing the devil control over you.
Our life here on earth is nothing but a split second compared to all eternity in Heaven or hell. We cannot do whatever we please, knowingly doing wrong, and then at the end say "Oh I'm sorry God, forgive me and take me to Heaven now." I don't think so. Once we know right from wrong, we MUST live righteously. And then if we make a MISTAKE, we repent and strive our very hardest never to repeat it.
Anyone who has gotten through some tough times, anyone who has witnessed or lived a miracle... what came before that? The struggle. How would there ever be miracles if there weren't struggles? Thus we must go through trials of sorts, strengthening of our faith, obstacles and overcoming evil, to get to the other side. For without the struggle, what kind of testimony would we have to receive the blessing? We need for the goal of the other side to still be with Jesus, with Him all along and in the end. We need the goal we are aiming for to be biblical. For if we remain faithful to Him no matter WHAT no matter how tough it gets, and we continue to praise Him and thank Him and trust in Him, we will get through it. Make it your goal not to live in evil but to OVERCOME evil.
When you read the Bible and make the decision to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and follow Him. Then start living in the spirit rather than the flesh. You have a choice. Which do you choose? Heaven or Hell?
And they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:26
It was wrong of me to separate the two, as my faith, Jesus, is the absolute reason for my strength in getting through this. I could not exclude Him from my health blog even if others suggested to do so. Thus, I started talking more about my faith on my main blog. Now, many times, it's more about Him than me, which is where I came up with the current title 'About Me, Not About Me'. This story may be about me, but really it's not about me, it's about Him. That old blog still sits out there no longer being used. So I decided over time I will begin to move those posts from there to here to have everything in one place.
In just beginning to read some of my first posts, I've realized the amount of work God has truly done in me. A lot of times we hate the journey and want to get to our next destination, but it is in that very journey that God molds you into who He created you to be. Enjoy each mile of your own journey and know that God is working through you if you let Him.***
Originally Posted: July 15, 2013
What's Your Choice?
We are given our own free will. So we are allowed to choose the bad, the wrong, the evil, the devil. God doesn't want us to choose that route, but He will allow it so not to impose on the free will He has given us.
Why do people choose what is wrong, bad, evil, of the devil?
I used to think that of the devil could only mean severe things such as killing, robbery, etc. I never related it to everyday evils we barely notice because they are much too common... lying, pride, jealousy, talking poorly about others. Now I clearly know that to be Christian means ridding myself of those evils, striving to do so as much as possible, living in a way that is a reflection of Jesus.
People don't realize how much the devil is present in this world, in our lives. He is CONSTANTLY trying to pull us away from God, from doing what is right, what is good, what is true. He is constantly deceiving us into thinking the wrong way is the right way. He deceives us through every possible medium out there- the media, strangers, friends and even family. The devil can and will use anything and anyone to get to you with gossip, jealousy, lying, anger, division within families. He can talk you into anything... make you believe that you are doing right, doing well. It's all a bunch of lies.
How can we discern then what is of Christ and what is of the devil? Open your Bible. Read it. Study it. Discuss it with other Christians. The Bible tells us everything we need to know. So, if you are trying to discern what is of Christ- is it biblical? If so, it is most likely of Christ. If you can't find it in the Bible to back it up, consider the devil is trying to deceive you and bring you down to a place you don't ever want to go. The Bible isn't something where you can pick and choose how you please. Why? Because in following Jesus you must follow him completely, because if you pick and choose then you really aren't following him at all. You can't carry only half the cross and claim it as your ticket to Heaven.
So again why do we choose evil? For the pleasure, excitement, experience, etc. that we are deceived into thinking is worth it. Maybe we feel we want to experience ALL of life- the good and the bad. But consider this- there are enough struggles out there without creating your own. You will encounter both good and bad without making a choice of it. We are still experiencing all that is life... but while doing so we are making the choices to remain faithful and righteous. We are not missing out on anything but instead actually making the most of everything.
Maybe you just feel you can't give your life to Christ because you'd be giving up your own free will, that choice. But think about it this way. You ARE making a choice right now if you aren't choosing Christ. If you are choosing evil, or anything other than good, truth and Jesus, you are in fact choosing the devil. You are CHOOSING the devil. So if you fear that you will "submit your life to Christ" and give up all freedom, look at it in the other sense that right now you are submitting your life to the devil and giving up all freedom. It's one or the other. If you aren't giving your life to Christ you are allowing the devil control over you.
Our life here on earth is nothing but a split second compared to all eternity in Heaven or hell. We cannot do whatever we please, knowingly doing wrong, and then at the end say "Oh I'm sorry God, forgive me and take me to Heaven now." I don't think so. Once we know right from wrong, we MUST live righteously. And then if we make a MISTAKE, we repent and strive our very hardest never to repeat it.
Anyone who has gotten through some tough times, anyone who has witnessed or lived a miracle... what came before that? The struggle. How would there ever be miracles if there weren't struggles? Thus we must go through trials of sorts, strengthening of our faith, obstacles and overcoming evil, to get to the other side. For without the struggle, what kind of testimony would we have to receive the blessing? We need for the goal of the other side to still be with Jesus, with Him all along and in the end. We need the goal we are aiming for to be biblical. For if we remain faithful to Him no matter WHAT no matter how tough it gets, and we continue to praise Him and thank Him and trust in Him, we will get through it. Make it your goal not to live in evil but to OVERCOME evil.
When you read the Bible and make the decision to accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, repent your sins, ask for forgiveness and follow Him. Then start living in the spirit rather than the flesh. You have a choice. Which do you choose? Heaven or Hell?
And they may come to their senses and escape from the snare of the devil, after being captured by him to do his will.
2 Timothy 2:26
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