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When Giving Thanks is Hard

This week will find people gathered around tables all across the U.S. as they celebrate Thanksgiving. Sure there will be the obligatory saying of grace. Families may even go around the table and share what they are thankful for. Some may even write out their prayers and hang them on a “thankful” tree.

 

But what do you do when giving thanks is hard?

 

Somebody has been isolated from social connections because of Covid so giving thanks may be a bit hard

 

Somebody has recently lost a parent so giving thanks may be a bit hard

 

Somebody has been struggling financially so giving thanks may be a bit hard

 

Somebody’s body is betraying them and is ravaged with disease so giving thanks may be a bit hard

 

But what I’ve come to learn and what the Lord has been especially impressing on my heart all week is Give Thanks Anyhow!

 

Despite what you see. Despite what you feel. Despite what you think. Give thanks anyhow!

 

Because it’s not about what we think, see or feel but about the ONE who deserves our honor, who deserves our adoration, who deserves our praise.

 

When giving thanks is hard, sometimes it requires you to take your eyes off yourself and off your situation and lock your gaze unto His.

 

When giving thanks is hard sometimes you have to deal with the spiritual cataracts so you can “see beyond” and see into the spirit.

 

Sometimes it will require you to humble yourself, recall where He bought you from, what He’s rescued you out of or what He spared you from.

 

Even when giving thanks is hard, the ONE who was, and is and is to come is still worthy. And because He sees and He knows and He cares, He will prod you and prompt you and remind you of just how much He loves you. You’ll hear it in the bird’s song or in the smile of a child. He’ll illuminate and bring back that verse you’ve hidden in your heart at just the right time. And when He does that, it may still be hard to give thanks but you’ll be compelled to do it. Because that’s the thing, praise and giving thanks are sacrificial. Oh yes, it’s going to cost you something.

 

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name. Hebrews 13:15

 

In the hard spaces of laying aside pride, convenience, or even hurt and sorrow, GIVE THANKS. It is actually God’s will that you give thanks is all things (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

 

Will it be hard to give thanks sometimes? Yes

Will it cost you something? Yes

But isn’t He worth it? YES!

 

Sometimes the words are hard to come by if you’re hurting but there is help. All you gotta do is turn to His word. Let these verses minister to your heart and may they flow from your lips as you offer up your true thanks giving

 

  • O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto Thee forever. Psalm 30:12
  • {I} Rejoice in every good thing which the Lord thy God has given unto me. Deuteronomy 26:11
  • Thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through Christ Jesus our Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:57
  • O give thanks unto the Lord; for He is good. His mercy endureth forever. Psalm 118:29
  • Giving thanks always for all things unto God. Ephesians 5:20
  • Enter into His gates with thanksgiving and into His courts with praise. Psalm 100:4
  • It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High. Psalm 92:1

 

So with the fruit of your lips, even if it’s but a whisper, release your Thank You Father…….

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

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How To Be Content In A World Full of Discontent

Discontent with 2020

 

Discontent with virtual learning but unsettled about sending them back

 

Discontent with the government 

 

Discontent with work

 

Discontent with yourself 

 

 

So how do we cultivate contentment in a world full of discontent?

 

Contentment is a decision. It is a state of mind. It is looking at the issues of life in the face and choosing JOY in spite of it all. 2020 has presented me ample opportunity to be discontent: 6 children underfoot ev-er-ry second of ev-er-ry day , limited time to execute the treasure trove of ideas in my head, health challenges, missing my friends and more.

 

But you know what?! I am committed to conquering discontent. Every morning when I rise, I give thanks to God, I ask for His wisdom, I come into agreement with heaven’s plan for my day and I purpose in my heart to choose joy.

 

So if you’re in the middle of the battle, here are 10 practical strategies that will position you to be content in a world full of discontent.

 

Train Your Brain

When thoughts of discontent arise like, “The world really sucks right now!” capture those toxic thoughts and replace them with the truth of God’s word. You have the ability to take those thoughts captive and make them obey Christ (2 Corinthians 10:5).

 

Have Godly Perspective 

When we look at things from our vantage they can sometimes appear skewed. The eyes of the natural man can warp a scenario like one of those amusement park funhouse mirrors. Which is why we have to see through eyes of faith. We have to have a godly perspective. We can gain godly perspective when we spend time in His word.

 

Purposeful Purge

Get rid of things that no longer spark joy. Purging is so therapeutic for me. The idea of getting rid of stuff just brings me a feeling of satisfaction. Purging also creates space in your heart, mind and emotions. Clear out your house, your contact list, your friends list. Try the purge, it’s very cathartic.  

 

Embrace The Moment

Slow down. Plain and simple.  Be a noticer. Take time to see leaves falling from the trees, a bird soaring overhead, to hear a child’s joy filled squeal, to slowly chew your food and savor the flavor, to feel your chest rise and fall as you breathe deeply. We spend so much of our energy moving from one thing to the next to the next that it’s very easy to miss the beauty that exists in the present moment.

 

Be Humble

Humility recognizes that without God, I can do NOTHING. And maintaining that posture puts your faith and reliance on God and God alone. Your humility positions you to abound in His grace, in His mercy, in His favor and this my friend is the secret sauce for contentment, HUMILITY. 

 

Silence The Voice of the Accuser 

The enemy of your soul wants you discontent. That’s his primary job, to sow lies and discord into your head. He wants you to think you’re not enough. He wants you to think you don’t have enough. Don’t buy into his nonsense. Silence that fool. Tell him what God said, resist him and he will flee from you (James 4:7).

 

Be Grateful

While the enemy may be trying to get you to focus on what you don’t have, give thanks to the Most High for what you DO have. Express your gratitude in praise and worship unto God. What are you grateful for right now? Go ahead, what 5 things immediately come to mind? Thank Him for it.

 

Be Generous

When we give, we take the attention off of ourselves so that we can love and serve others. Are you giving of your time, talents or resources?

 

Eyes on God 

When our attention drifts to what we see what other people have and what other people do,  we can begin comparing. Comparison is an evil trap that robs us of contentment. So let’s be diligent to keep our gaze fixed on God.

 

Honor Yourself

Neglecting yourself is a sure fire set up for discontent. Make a commitment to honor yourself by showing yourself some love, care and attention. Create space for you to nourish yourself, to get rest, exercise, to spend time with God and to embrace the moment. It can be done. Listen, I’m a mom of 6 and it’s not easy as everything is clamoring for my attention. But in order for me to give my best to those counting on me, I’ve got to honor myself. And it doesn’t have to occur in big blocks of time. Ask God to show you the windows of opportunity where you can put yourself on your daily schedule.

 

Listen friend, in the Lord there is no lack! Let me remind you of this verse, you know it well. The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want Psalm 23:1. Another version translates that to I LACK NOTHING. So if there is no lack, then there is no discontentment because in Christ you have everything you need.

 

In a world of discontent, the totality of Christ’s love, grace and mercy abound toward you, enabling you to be content.

 

Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it. 1 Timothy 6:6-7 

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired to Live Fully!

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A Back to School Promise You Can Bank On

This fall isn’t like last fall.

 

Back to school pictures are a little different.

 

Kitchens and spare bedrooms have been converted into classrooms.

 

School has started but few have gone back into the school classroom.

 

Indeed the start of the 2020-21 school year is different. 

 

 

Amid the different one thing remains. One thing is sure and one thing that is true. The ONE who is unchanging is right here in the midst of it with us. The ONE who does not change (Malachi 3:6) is ever faithful by our side. And He’s given us a back to school promise we can bank on.

 

And I don’t know about you but I need a promise I can hold on to. This promise is going to carry me through internet service interruptions. This promise is going to get me through children complaining about their siblings talking too loudly when they’ve taken themselves off mute. This promise is going to carry my early elementary child through all the loops, hoops and screen switches he’s expected to master at such a young age. This promise is going to give me needed reassurance for homeschooling a high schooler. And this promise is going to ensure that myself, my husband and my 6 children all dwell together in unity (Psalm 133:1) as we navigate this new way of learning.

 

And I’m banking that this promise will come through for you too.

 

No matter how you feel about this school year.

 

Whether your child is attending school virtually, traditionally homeschooled, returning full time to the classroom or hybrid. 

 

For the single mom who has conference call after conference call yet your 3rd grader needs help with the new way of regrouping.

 

For the essential worker who is trying to explain to her father how to log into class since grandparents will be called upon to help manage distance learning.

 

For the older siblings watching the younger ones while attempting to get their own work done because mom and dad have to get to work. 

 

To the teacher who has 3 children of her own at home.

 

Here’s a Word in season that you can fiercely cling to:

 

 

All your children shall be taught by the LORD, and great shall be the peace of your children. Isaiah 54:13

 

 

Friends, above all, He is their Teacher. The Holy Spirit is a teacher. The Father, who loves His children faithfully instructs them. Jesus, Rabboni is their teacher. And as such, He’s got this!

 

And wait! Not only will they be taught by Him, but GREAT shall be their peace. 

 

Take heart friend. God’s got you and He has your children. He is teaching all of us day by day. In Him there is no lack. He supplies all our needs including the educational ones. So we can safely place our trust in the surety of this promise. He will teach your children and great shall be their peace (Isaiah 54:13). Commit this verse to memory, ask, seek, knock and watch Him do it for you.

 

Let us pray…

Thank you Lord for the surety of your promises. You have assured me that you will teach my children and great shall be their peace. Lord help me lay aside any worry, anxiety and fear surrounding their education as I put my hope and trust in you. May my children have the wisdom, knowledge, understanding and learning of Daniel and the Hebrew Boys. Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me so that I am open and receptive to be used by You. Show me how I can  best encourage my children and foster their love of learning. And let me remember that instructing them is not merely relegated to academics but I am to diligently teach them about You Father. Let them seek knowledge and have the ear of the wise. May your Word teach them, equip them, and correct them. I thank you for being the best teacher they could ever have.

In Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.

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Things To Do In A Summer of Coronavirus

Friend

 

Let me emphatically tell you a few things I know to be true.

 

2020 is not canceled!

Joy is not canceled!

Summer is not canceled!

LIVING and LOVING are not canceled!

 

So what are we to do then? How can we still have a summer filled with life and joy and making memories? I’m glad you asked.

 

You can be purposeful in ensuring that you are living fully in the mind, in the body and in the spirit. You can start a garden, go on a hike, take a class, or learn a new skill. There’s PLENTY you can still do. While your annual family vacation my be out and your girl’s trip may be out, JOY is always on the agenda.

 

And recently I had an opportunity to sit down (albeit social distancing) with my friend and fellow Blogger Joy A. Williams. We had a chance to chat it up about nourishment for the body, spirit and soul. And of course, since it’s summer we had to talk all things salad. I was so moved as I shared about the goodness and faithfulness of God, remarking, “Before He even created mankind, He created what would be for our nourishment. On the third day He created the seed and fruit bearing trees. By the time we came along on the sixth day, our food provision was already accounted for.” 

 

CLICK HERE to hear the rest of our convo and for a chance to receive a free gift from me!

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

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What Is Soul Care & Why You Need It Now

Newscasters are telling us. Social media influencers are telling us. Our doctors are telling us.

SELF-CARE
SELF-CARE
SELF-CARE

 

But these days it seems as if self-care has been reduced to temporary, quick fixes. Perhaps a mani/pedi, massage, glass of wine, night with the crew will invoke happy feelings, but in and of themselves they are short lived. While spa visits and whoosah moments are a sweet reprieve from the constant chatter of the world, in and of themselves they will not satisfy your soul’s need for care. This is why we must extend beyond self-care and embrace SOUL CARE.

 

Your soul is your mind, your will and your emotions. And God has given you a soul as a means of connecting with the natural world. But if you are not careful, you begin to live more out of our soul than out of our spirit. You are 1st a spirit being, don’t forget that.

 

Why do you need to care for your soul? Our life experiences directly influence the health of our souls. And when we are subject to hurts, disappoints, other trauma we end up with soul wounds. But there is good news. God has the balm to soothe and heal our wounded souls. But that requires us to present ourselves to Him. We must surrender completely to Him. So let us look at the three areas that comprise the soul.

 

MIND

 

Day by day, moment by moment we must renew our minds. We are bombarded by so much information that infiltrates our minds and much of it is untrue. Which is why we have to constantly feed ourselves the TRUTH of God’s word.

Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will. Romans 12:2

 

With all that we are experiencing in our world today: pandemic, civil unrest, unemployment, under-employment, health crises and more, it is easy to succumb under the weight of all that pressure.
It is critical that we employ practices that support our mental health. Turning to the truth of God’s word is an effective strategy for managing our thought life. And I have created this resource to support you in calming the mind when everything around you is raging. In Solace In The Storm, my latest devotional, I unlock the promises of Psalm 46, strengthening your resolve that even in the midst of troubles, God’s peace will prevail. I pray that the mind that was in Christ Jesus is also in you (Philippians 2:5) as you keep your mind stayed on Him.

 

WILL

 

Jesus is our example for living. And He emphatically stated that He lived to DO the will of the Father (JOHN 4:34). Our will and God’s will tend to be diametrically opposed. We are naturally inclined to do what we want, when we want, how we want. But this is not God’s desire for us.

Through reading God’s word, prayer and times of solitude, God’s will, will become apparent to us. The onus is then on us to bring our will into alignment with His. And by the power of the Holy Spirit at work in you, you have divine enablement to do this.  For He works in you both to will and to do according to His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).

 

EMOTIONS

 

God’s gift of emotions is a beautiful treasure but if mishandled becomes problematic. When we are self-centered and self-focused only we can easily allow our emotions to dictate our behavior. But when we are Christ-centered and Christ-focused, we allow the Holy Spirit at work in us to lead and He empowers us to manage our emotions through the spirit.

 

Your range of emotions is not a bad thing. In fact, emotions are a great tool for letting us know what we are sensing and experiencing at any given moment. Without emotions we would not know joy overflowing and abounding love. The key is to acknowledge the emotion we are feeling, to consider its source or root and to surrender it to the Lord. Your flesh and all its longing are crucified and it is Christ that lives in you (Galatians 2:20), empowering you to manage your emotions.

 

Even the food you eat directly impacts  your emotions. If you eat foods that are processed, full of chemicals and additives it’s going to come out in your attitude! Be sure to choose food & beverages that support your peace and well-being. Adaptogens such as reishi mushroom, rosemary and ashwagandha, support feelings of calm and well-being.

 

Here is a simple, nutritious way to start your day. Instead of a sugary carb loaded breakfast, pair this granola with some fruit to start your day.

NUTTY SEED GRANOLA

 

When you spend time strengthening your inner man, you abide in the spirit, you walk in the spirit, and are led of the spirit. In that manner, your spirit takes precedence and enables you to master your soul.

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

 

 

 

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How To Deal With The Pain of Civil Unrest

Our nation is in crisis. From plagues and pestilence to systemic racism being played out daily as Black and Brown bodies continue to be subjugated by Whites, our world is in turmoil.

 

Chances are you are running the full gamut of emotions, from frustration and sorrow to anger or even just plain numb. As I’ve watched the events of the past few weeks, I’ve cried, I’ve stewed, I’ve measure my words as I’ve tried to explain these events to my children. And it’s not just the me who I am today feeling this. In me lies the pain of my mother’s, mother’s mother and her mother before her. My very DNA groans in agony.

 

This has been downright HARD! Can you agree?

 

So what do we do with these feelings? How do we navigate through the iceberg of emotions? Because of our personal life experiences we are going to process these events differently. Here are a few ways we can deal with the pain of civil unrest.

 

Permission To Process

Give yourself permission to process and grieve in ways that are suitable for you. You want to cry? CRY. You want to be alone? Spend some time alone. Allow yourself to sit and to feel. Acknowledge your feelings by naming them. Give voice to your feelings.

 

Groan

What happens when we lack the ability and the vocabulary to convey our feelings in coherent words? We groan. That sounds comes from deep in our bellies and out through the throat. It is an honored expression. Even The Spirit Himself utters groanings for us when we don’t know what to pray (Romans 8:26).

 

Obey What God’s Telling You

One of the greatest actions you can take at this time is to commune with God, listen to Him and DO what He tells you to do. Obedience is God’s love language (John 14:15) and if you say you love Him, simply do what He tells you to do. The greatest revolution you can wage is to walk boldly in the purpose for which God put you on this earth. God needs EACH & EVERY Believer suited in their armor, obediently walking out their calling. Whether it’s raising your children, raising your voice in protest or raising your dollar to sow it into a worthy cause, DO the thing He’s called you to do.

 

Take Action

What can you do to directly be a part of the change you seek?

  • Fast & Pray for Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts and His legion of Angels to come against the spirit of terrorism, division, murder and mayhem.
  • Engage in meaningful conversations with people of other races. Share your truth.
  • Support Black owned businesses
  • Engage in peaceful protest
  • Teach your children about race relations
  • Call/Write your local officials
  • Donate $ to a fund (Like Justice for Breonna, The Innocent Project, George Floyd Memorial Fund)
  • Sign a petition
  • Vote

 

Embrace The Moment

Be intentional to take breaks from the bombardment of external chatter so that you can process, think clearly and connect with God. We have to strike a balance between being informed and becoming depressed with the information we are consuming. We have to be purposeful to embrace silence and stillness in the Father’s presence. It is here that we are restored and refreshed so that we can engage when God calls us to act.

 

Friends I am praying for you. The enemy would like nothing more than for us to lose hope but remain hopeful. Our God, Adonai is Sovereign. He is Elyon our God Most High. With all power, authority and dominion in His hands, He will sustain you and I and He will see His kingdome come, His will be done.

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

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3 Practical Ways to Care for Your Body Today

During this quarantine it seems like folks have fallen into two camps:

 

Those on their way to quaranTINY

Those on their way to quaranTHICK

 

Now I’m not sure which of these camps you’ve aligned with. If pursuing quaranTINY, congrats and I pray your decision is rooted in obedience to God and seeking to honor Him in your temple. If you’ve fallen in with the quaranTHICK, let me say that I recognize your need for comfort, solace and and perhaps just something to do to stave off boredom. For where ever you find yourself in this season, I want to encourage you to love yourself enough to honor your temple.

 

After all, the bible is very clear that your body is not even your own.

 

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

 

So whether you are slimming or snacking, exercising or over-eating, here are 3 Practical Ways to Care for Your Body.

 

NOURISHMENT

Your body is a finely crafted, multi-million dollar machine. If you own a luxury vehicle you don’t fill it with 87 and expect it to run at peak performance. The same can be said for your body. Your body is a prized possession. It is a multi-million dollar, top of the line, custom model. So you cannot fill your body with junk masquerading as food and expect it to operate optimally leaving you feeling energized, healthy and strong. If you fill it with junk though you CAN expect to feel sluggish, inflamed, exhausted and frustrated.

 

That’s why adequate nourishment is critical. And you don’t have to be a nutritionist, a dietician or even a health nut to know exactly what to eat. Let’s make this super simple. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Start there. Eat them close to their original state i.e. peel the orange as opposed to mandarin oranges in the little fruit cup or eat the veggies roasted or steamed as opposed to slathered in a sugary, cloying sauce. What you eat truly does result in what your body becomes. It’s a simple principle of input & output. Put LIVING foods in = Feeling ALIVE.

 

It brings to mind a PSA I heard as a kid (I’m going to date myself here but that’s ok). I can literally remember EVERY word. To this day I can hear Time for Timer saying, “You are what you eat from your head down to your feet….All these motors in your body need a lot of fuel to go on. Like carbohydrates, fats and proteins, vitamins and so on.” And while it was a cheesy PSA, it was and still is true. You really are what you eat. So be mindful of what you’re choosing to fuel your body with and I implore you to choose well. And because I’m committed to helping you choose well, I have recipes on my website. You can also get 30 salad & homemade dressing recipes in my book 30 Days 30 Ways to Salad Heaven

 

REST

Rest is a bit counter culture. We’ve all seen the journals, mugs and T-Shirts that say “Hustle Hard” “Grind Hard”. Well there is a time for work, but there is also time for play and for rest. In fact, Psalm 23 opens with David telling us he lacks NOTHING. Then David proceeds to give the prescription. Why does he lack nothing? Because the Lord made him to lie down in green pastures. Are you accepting or rejecting the Lord’s instruction to come aside and lay down for a while? David goes on to say that the Lord led him beside still waters and God refreshed his soul.

 

Will you allow yourself to be refreshed? Don’t make me get tough on you. For those of you who are obedient and accept the Lord’s invitation, enter into His rest. For you who are a tad bit hardheaded, overzealous, have issues trusting God, or just feeling like you gotta do EVERYTHING, let me say this, “Go Setdown Somewhere!” Give yourself permission to rest that you may lack nothing.

 

EXERCISE

Let me tell you, exercise is not necessarily my favorite past time. I do like the camaraderie of exercising in a group and I do like dance classes but I almost never get to do those forms of exercise. Even before Corona, my workouts were all at home. And it takes discipline and diligence to stay committed to honoring the body through working out. But exercise is key. Not only does it help you sleep better and feel stronger, it relieves stress, it strengthens your heart, it improves and supports bodily systems like your lymphatic systems and your circulatory system and that’s just to name a few.

 

Your exercise routine doesn’t have to require special classes or equipment. Just walk if you can. Move your body. Stretch from head to toe. Run with your children. Workout with your spouse. If you need support, find an online class. I’ve seen many many fitness instructors offering free or nearly free classes. Remember, the body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. And just as you are diligent in strengthening your inner man, it would serve you well to strengthen the physical body. From the dawn of creation man has been walking, working, and moving this body. Let us not give way to a sedentary lifestyle. Your work may have to strapped to your chair and computer so it’s critical that you are purposeful in ensuring you move.

 

My friend, you get that one body, so I encourage you to care for it while you have the chance. Here’s your 3 steps formula: Nourishment, rest and exercise. Now go be great!

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

 

 

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How To Stay Healthy at Home During COVID-19

Many states are slowly reopening and easing their stay-at-home orders. And I don’t know about you, but I’m planning to stick close to home. I’ll let all those who are eager to run out to the salon, nail shop or to Marshall’s for non-essentials have it at. Before I go running anywhere, I’ve got to stand and observe how this plays out. Listen folks, things are not normal. Things are not going back to normal. We are all using this time to craft and learn what will become our new normal. 

 

And while we are figuring all that out, in as much as you may be missing church and hanging out with friends (I know I surely do), we can maximize on engaging activities to stay healthy at home.

 

Now if you are an essential worker, the below strategies are for you too. I hope you’ll find that they bring you comfort, joy and peace when you return to the home front after work. 

 

So here are a few tips for staying healthy at home during COVID-19

 

Healthy In The Mind

Because you are a triune being, a spirit with a soul (mind, will & emotion), housed within a physical body, it is critically important to address all facets of your being if you are to walk in health. So any conversation on health must address mental health. May is mental health awareness month. I don’t know how our world’s current crisis is affecting you and I earnestly pray you are well. If you are experiencing stress or anxiety I want you to click HERE for one of my most recent posts with practical strategies for handling stress.

 

Additionally you can ease your mind by embracing the now moment. It is very easy to get drawn into dwelling on the past or worrying about the future. Even Jesus tells us not to worry about tomorrow (Matthew 6:24).

 

Sometimes we feel better when I talk things out. Do you have at least one trusted friend, mentor or confidant that you can share your heart with? The bible reminds us 

 

You want to keep your brain sharp too. Engage in some brain building activities like puzzles,  learning a new skill, taking a free college course, reading, and even exercise improves your cognitive abilities.

 

Healthy In The Body

While extra time at home has found some people exercising more, gardening and purging, some have also indulged in extra snacking. Now more than ever it is critically important that we engage in activities that support a strong body. We can be healthy in our bodies by getting proper nourishment, rest and exercise. 

 

So how have your eating habits been while in this corona crisis? We have seen that many who’ve succumbed to the virus had pre-existing health conditions. I want you to be proactive in caring for your health. God has already been speaking to you about what you need to do. Now do it! And if you don’t know where to begin, you can start by picking up a copy of my book 30 Days 30 Ways to Salad Heaven. Swap out one of your daily meals for a salad and you’ll be well on your way.

 

While we’re talking about eating, be a mindful eater. Are you eating because you’re actually hungry or are you eating because you’re bored, angry or sad? 

 

Another practical strategy you can employ is intermittent fasting. And you don’t have to over complicate this. Just decide that you will not eat after ____ time in the evening and you will not eat before _____ time in the morning. You fill in the blank. I don’t eat before 8am and I don’t eat after 8pm so that accounts for 12 hours of overnight fasting. Fasting does WONDERS for the body. From better sleep to weight loss, intermittent fasting is highly beneficial for your health. 

 

Are you getting adequate rest? The Lord said there is a rest for His people. He leads you beside still waters. He makes you lie down in green pastures. Accept His invitation and get some rest.

 

And after you’ve rested and are invigorated go ahead and get in some exercise. Being at home may lead to being sedentary so be purposeful to move that body. There are many fitness experts hopping online offering free or low cost classes so go for it. 

 

Healthy In The Spirit

This conversation on being healthy is not complete without addressing our spiritual health. Being strong in spirit gives us the fortitude to ease the mind and honor the body. Because in our own strength and might we will eventually grow weary. But when we are fueled by the holy spirit at work within us, we don’t rely on our own strength. We access the power within that is greater than our flesh. 

 

The only way I can fulfill my many roles with grace is because of the time I spend with the Father. My quiet time with Him in the morning, and seeking Him all throughout the day fills me so that I can pour back out. Here are two of my favorite devotionals that have made my quiet time rich.

 

Praying The Names of God

 

Emotionally Healthy Spirituality

 

Friends, we are all trying to work through this new life as best as we know how. I hope these nuggets prove beneficial in helping you to stay healthy at home during COVID-19 and beyond.

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

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Mother’s Day Giveaway

This one is for the Mamas.

 

As a mama of 6 I know what it’s like to feel like the work you do goes unnoticed.

 

I know what it’s like to feel undervalued.

 

I know what it’s like to wonder if anyone even cares.

 

And this is no slight to our families. Every day my husband thanks me. He tells me how grateful he is for my cooking :). He tells me how great I’m doing with the children.

 

But part of me can sometimes still feel some kinda way.

 

This is where we have to turn our gaze back to the ONE.

 

The One who knows our needs.

The One who supplies.

The One who understands.

And the One for whom we are doing it all anyway.

 

We do it all to bring Him glory. We cook food and change diapers and listen to teenage tales of friendship woes, we prayer, we cry, we mend hearts and kiss boo-boos and work heartily as unto HIM!

 

And while we keep our gaze on Him, and keep our expectation from Him, I want to reward one mama for her faithfulness and her diligence. It ain’t easy Momming, especially in these Corona days with nearly unlimited face to face time with your kiddos. I want to gift you with something that will build you in your mind, body, spirit and in your parenting. So here are the deets to enter the giveaway.

 

Mother’s Day Giveaway

 

Giveaway Includes:
?Purposeful Parenting Print Book
?Purposeful Parenting Bookmark
?Inspired Life Tee (M, L, or XL)
?30 Days 30 Ways To Salad Heaven eBook
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To enter you must follow all the steps:
✔️Follow @inspiredfully on IG
✔️Like the contest post
✔️Comment on the contest post
✔️Tag 3 friends
✔️Subscribe to the mailing list (link in IG bio)

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You can double your chances for winning by posting this to your page and tagging me.

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RULES:
*Contest ends Saturday 5/9 8pmEST
*Follow all the above steps
*Open to US Residents only
*Winner announced on Mother’s Day via IG Stories and DM to the winner
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(The contest is not administered, sponsored, or endorsed by Instagram)
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Spread the word. Mamas are ESPECIALLY deserving and I’m looking forward to honoring the one blessed winner ??

 

Happy Mother’s Day

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

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10 Practical Ways To Manage Stress

April was National Stress Awareness Month and in May we recognize Mental Health Month. And in light of our current global crisis, it is critical that we proactively protect our minds and our emotions. Stress can certainly be a huge contributor to ebbing away at our mental health so we want to do what we can to get the help we need.

 

Let’s face it, if you are a human being, living on this planet, at some point you will come face to face with stress. We will all come to the place where life’s demands exceed our bandwidth, reaching beyond our capacity to handle. And that’s the place where we can begin to feel stress.

 

In and of itself, stress is not such a bad thing. God hardwired this response into every human. From the dawn of humanity until now, this automatic response mechanism has protected us from imminent danger. From warding off an animal attack hundreds of years ago to quickly stepping on the brakes to avoid a car crash today, stress gives way to the release of hormones enabling our bodies to jump into protective mode.

 

It becomes problematic though when our bodies are constantly operating from the protective mode. While we cannot control all the stressors that life presents but we can control our responses to them.  

 

You will manage stress, stress won’t manage you.

 

10 Practical Ways To Manage Stress

You don’t have to do all of them at once. Perhaps you can adopt one a day or practice one a week until they are ingrained and become part of your regular wellness protocol. Employing the following practices has personally helped me heal from past trauma, manage the demands of caring for a large family while serving my community, grow as a disciple of God and effectively handle the pressures of life.

 

Mindfulness 

Be transformed by renewal of the mind (Romans 12:2). Be purposeful in thinking about the things you think about. When your thoughts are pulled away by worry, fear, and anxiety, cast those down and shift your thoughts to those that are excellent and praiseworthy (Philippians 4:8).

 

Meditation 

Think deeply on God’s word. Day and night meditate on His precepts. Ponder on His goodness and faithfulness. The Psalms encourage us again and again to meditate day and night.

 

Laughter

Sometimes I envy my husband. Laughter comes easily to him. I tend to be more serious and can get consumed by what needs to be done and that has a way of squeezing out laughter. A cheerful heart is good medicine (Proverbs 17:22) so take a dose of laughter so that you stay well.

 

Sun Therapy

Light therapy, also known as heliotherapy has been used for ages to heal people. From skin disorders to depression, studies have proven the sun’s ability to heal. So when possible, get outdoors and soak up the sun. It will work wonders to calm your nerves and boost your mood. Arise, shine for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord rises upon you Isaiah 60:1

 

Deep Breathing

While you’re out there in the sun, breath deeply. Deep breathing calms your nervous system, releases serotonin, and increases your oxygen intake causing you to lower your heart rate, lower your blood pressure and exhale toxins. This is a powerful way to bring about relaxation and peace. 

 

Essential Oils

One of the things that you can breathe deeply is essential oils. Coupling oils with the above practices supercharges their effectiveness. Since the beginning of time, plants and herbs have been used to heal mankind. The bible tells us in Revelation 22:2, the leaves on the trees are for the healing of the nations. Essential oils like Clary Sage and Lavender promote relaxation and boost hope.

 

Sleep

Have you ever experienced the rejuvenating power of a good night’s sleep? Review your sleep hygiene practices. Are you creating an atmosphere conducive for a good night’s rest? Limiting electronics, bathing before bed, using Lavender essential oil and prayer are all practices that can aid you in having a better night’s sleep. Your brain has A LOT of work to do in cataloging all the work you’ve done for the day so you’ve got to get some good sleep. Sleep affects for daily performance and even your weight so go to bed!

 

Exercise

On the other side of sleep is movement. Exercise is an effective way to release endorphins promoting a release of stress and inviting in feel good emotions. So move that body and get your happy on. Exercise isn’t my favorite thing to do but I know it’s good for me so I make it a priority. I’m not saying you’ve got to be a super athlete but I am suggesting that you get that blood flowing, get that heart stimulated and move. 

 

Eating Right

Do you understand the powerful effect that your food has on your mood? Food like Soul Food, that you think of as comfort food actually does little to comfort. While they may bring delight to your palate for a moment, they leave you feeling cramped, bloated, sluggish and these foods lead to inflammation in the joints which further leaves you feeling poorly. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables will leave you feeling light, energized and empowered knowing you are doing the right thing for your body. If you need help in knowing what to eat to energize you, improve your mood and reduce stress, get your hands on my book, 30 Days 30 Ways to Salad Heaven.

 

Gratitude

Listen, even in the hardest of times, God has been mmm mmm good to you. Think about how He’s provided for you. Thing about how He’s kept you. Think about how He’s empowered you to forgive those who have wronged you. Think about the beautiful friends and family He’s given you. Think about the talent He’s placed in you. There are so so many reasons to give thanks. So pause and reflect on His praiseworthy deeds and the mighty works of His hands and offer up a Thank You Lord! It will surely shift your focus off of your current stress and unto His goodness.

 

And I have so many others, I may have to do a Part 2. If you’d like to see a part two of this series leave me a comment. And also let me know how any of the above strategies have helped you manage stress.

 

While each of these suggestions may seem a small thing, when coupled together as part of your overall wellness protocol, they will yield a GREAT return. I pray your month is filled with God’s joy and His peace which surpasses all understanding.

 

As always, it is my prayer that you’ve been Inspired To Live Fully!

 

 

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