Category: true vine

A Free Small Drink

Read Time 3 Minutes

While I don’t generally think to describe myself as a Senior Citizen, the impact that I AM ONE hit home recently with a trip to Whataburger! I heard the person in front of me, as they placed their order, request a senior drink. I thought to myself, “Do I count as a senior?”. When it was my turn, I asked the cashier how old you had to be to get the free Senior drink. She said 55, and boom, it hit me! At age 56, I’m in that category! I was happy to know that I could receive the perk, but felt a little disheartened at the reality that I am grouped in the aging population!

As a personal trainer, I have had the privilege to specialize in fitness for women and for senior citizens. I have learned much about the aging process and how the human body changes with age. While I am now experiencing the beginnings of the 55+ aging process, I can attest to the reality of changes from 50-90 years of age by working with a variety of clients and meeting their unique needs in this age range.

The essence of my blog has always been to highlight our great need for our Savior, Jesus Christ, first and foremost as we stay connected to Him and then secondly, to connect Godly living with our physical health! He is our True Vine and apart from Him, we can do nothing…that is, nothing of eternal significance and nothing that brings Him glory (John 15:5). As we stay fully connected in our relationship with Jesus, we can live an abundant life that includes spiritual and physical well-being that brings glory to God!

I believe that pursuing spiritual and physical well-being is a Godly response to life, as I believe God wants very much for us to honor Him by taking care of our physical bodies! John, a devoted disciple and follower of Jesus, even prayed for this very thing!

“Dear friend, I pray that you may prosper in every way and be in good health physically just as you are spiritually.” 3 John 1:2

In 1 Corinthians 3:16, the Bible tells us, “Don’t you yourselves know that you are God’s sanctuary and that the Spirit of God lives in you?”. While we are certainly expected to keep growing spiritually as God indwells us, God created our physically bodies too. He dwells in the physical body of every Christian! During Jesus’ ministry on earth, His primary purpose was to heal people spiritually by revealing that He is the way, the truth, and the life…He is our Savior! However, Jesus clearly cared for people’s physical needs too as He was overwhelmed with compassion for those who suffered physically and preformed numerous healing miracles!

Therefore, no matter your age, it is a Godly response to care for your body. Those of us in the 55+ category have a little more urgency to take healthy steps to exercise, eat well, and get rest!

One example of the urgency to exercise is that while losing muscle mass is a natural part of aging, the percentage increases greatly per year after the age of 60. You can slow this process with a nice regiment of strength training. You can also prolong a healthy lifestyle by improving balance, flexibility, and joint health with just the right amount and kinds of exercise!

If you haven’t been looking after your physical health very well, ask God to guide you in your first and your next steps in caring for your body. This clearly connects a spiritual approach to caring for your physical well-being and will honor God greatly!

If you get discouraged because some days are just hard, remember this special verse…

“For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.” Hebrews 12:11

Ask God what He would like YOU to do today to take care of your physical needs. Then, take steps towards healthy living no matter your age. You will “yield the peaceful fruit of righteousness” when you honor God by taking care of your body!

On the Edge of My Seat

Read Time 6 Minutes

At the beginning of 2024, I was asked to participate in the activity of choosing a word for the year. I chose the word VICTORIOUS. I chose this word as a challenge to myself to live above the little things that can entangle me in my daily life. These “little things” are the things that can rob my peace…one such example is letting any amount of anxiety to be set in motion for the day.

The action to choose victory over anxiety is going to be a challenge over the next few months for many of us! As the political realm is picking up pace in the furry of preparing for election day in November, we can be rocked with emotions that can include a spectrum of sadness, anger, and fear!

When covid hit in 2020, I found myself encountering a feeling of underlying uneasiness to a more forceful feeling of being on the edge of my seat. I know I’m not alone in this either. It felt like one might feel in an action movie of suspense wondering what was going to happen next, or the feeling building inside when one is climbing upward on a roller coaster anticipating the fall. During covid, we were all wondering what would happen next. It was an uncertain and scary time.

Now, with the uptick of upheaval in the political race as well as just living in an upside down chaotic culture, I find myself battling these feelings again. In some moments, there is a level of fear for our country’s future. In other moments, there is sadness for the things I witness happening around us in our communities and the country as a whole. And still, other moments may include anger at unfolding events, how issues are handled, and how media reports on matters. Again, my guess is that I am not alone in these feelings!

The question then is, how do we remain VICTORIOUS over the tumultuous times that we are living in and the feelings that it can bring on us?

While probably nothing that I share in my writing is earth-shattering new, I write to remind myself and hopefully others how to stay steadfast in our walk with God and to encourage a spiritual and physical wellness as we live fully abiding in the True Vine!

In this article, I want to share some ways or a “recipe” as such that you and I can use to keep a hopeful and peaceful heart during uneasy times and get ourselves up and off the edge of our seats or at least off the “negative” edge of our seats!

First, instead of being an uneasy spectator filled with fear of what might happen next, let’s trade the focus for an exciting “edge of your seat” experience. Let’s anticipate with excitement how God will show us displays of His glory and His presence as events unfold. Remember, nothing takes Him by surprise! Let’s trust Him and lean hard into Him as we watch events around us. This can also include a “watching” for His return. We can remember that we are sojourners in this life. Whether Jesus comes back tomorrow or years from now, we as Christians, have a constant HOPE! We have a Living Hope that is above the earthly stage around us. We don’t have to be shaken because we have an eternal citizenship in Heaven. We get to watch the world arena from an everlasting perspective. What God allows us to experience here, He will give us the strength to endure and the hope to look at everything from the perspective of God’s got this! He has perfect plans, and we do not need to fear. He will take care of us through anything! Let’s keep our eyes focused on Him!

“But our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body, by the power that enables Him even to subject all things to Himself.” Philippians 3:20-21

“Let us hold fast the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is faithful.” Hebrews 10:23

“…fear not, for I am with you;
    be not dismayed, for I am your God;
I will strengthen you, I will help you,
    I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10

Again, the way to be VICTORIOUS in the present roller coaster world stage is to keep our eyes turned on the One who will “subject all things to Himself”! As we keep our eyes on Him moment by moment, the natural outflow of this devotion will be to “shine our light” into this dark world. As we share with others the Hope we have in Jesus, may they also be drawn into a saving relationship with Him! When others turn to Jesus because of our hopeful Christ-centered living, that makes a double victory!!

In addition to making Jesus our number one focus and desire, I’d like to continue the “recipe” for living a victorious life. By His perfect design, God gives us more ways that we can live life to the fullest and not be weighed down with anxiety. We can get up off the edge of our seat with meaningful activities that help to counteract the temptation to be anxious and keep us healthy and strong.

“Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may discern what is the good, pleasing, and perfect will of God.” Romans 12: 1-2

“…for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

These verses reinforce that staying steadfast in our focus on Him (renewing our mind and living in godliness) is the top priority to living a triumphant life. However, if you look closely, there are some additional outlets that God provides to help us stay feeling healthy and well and upbeat. He cares about our bodies too and what we do with them.

Therefore, another ingredient to keeping ourselves from the temptation to live in a roller coaster of fear, is to partake in the activity of taking care of our bodies. This is a God-designed natural stress reliever! There is some value to this (1 Tim. 4:8). He wants us to be healthy and well. He designed our bodies to need food, sleep, and physical activity. When we allow any of these areas to go uncared for, we begin to feel depleted physically, mentally, and emotionally.

It is common and proven knowledge that if we are not eating well, not doing our best to get sleep, or not getting regular physical activity, then we are denying ourselves a natural stress relief! All three of these promote a better sense of well-being and lead to a more positive outlook on life. By partaking in exercise, healthy eating, and rest, we feel better not only physically, but emotionally and mentally too!

We need to replace thinking about unhealthy stressful circumstances to thinking about healthy living. Rather than watching too much news or spending too much time on social media, we can make a better sleeping plan or a better meal plan. And by all means we need to make sure we add exercise and physical activities into our life.

Finally, another way that God delights us in this life and offers a dynamic way to relieve stress and anxiety is to partake in the glorious beauty of His creation!

“The heavens declare the glory of God,
and the sky proclaims the work of His hand.” Psalm 19:1

When we take time to enjoy His handiwork…the sky, the trees, the animals, the water, the landforms…we feel refreshed! Just taking a country drive and observing the cows grazing peacefully on the grass refreshes me. They do not fret! Watching the birds go about their business is a pleasure as well. They are not worried. These encounters remind me that the God who cares for animals cares for me too!

So, join me in getting up off the edge of your seat during these uncertain times. I believe that the recipe for living a VICTORIOUS life no matter what the circumstances is to renew your mind by looking to Jesus. Trust Him…lean on Him…stay focused on Him! Take care of your body, for this is pleasing to God too! And, take a walk to soak up God’s creation! Enjoy His beauty found all around in nature! Let’s live in this kind of hopeful peacefulness today!

Keep it Simple

“You rejoice in this, though now for a short time you have had to struggle in various trials so that the genuineness of your faith—more valuable than gold, which perishes though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6-7

Read Time 3 Minutes

How is your pain level today on a scale of 1 to 10?

Physical? (headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, disease, and disorders)

Mental? (work stress, financial stress, daily frustrations)

Emotional? (heartaches, relationships, rejection, confusion)

Most likely, you would answer these questions with your specific situation in mind whether it be physical, mental, or emotional distress…or all three!

What if you could place a stamp over each of your painful circumstances with the word…Joy Joy Joy?

There is an actual “Secret to Life”, and the Apostle Paul knew it well! He spent his later life; however, NOT trying to keep the secret. Instead, he spent his time proclaiming the secret of life, and more importantly by experientially living it…even to death!

“For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” Philippians 1:21

Here in this verse is the simple secret…the forever focus…Live for Christ!

Another example from Paul’s life that demonstrated his “forever focus” is found in Philippians 4:12-13, “ I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content—whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me.”

If discouragement is clouding my mind and my pain level is rising, it can become tempting, even easy, to quickly get my mind off the forever focus…Christ! Yet, it is He that provides all the strength and even all the joy I need to live victoriously in whatever situation I find myself. It is He that provides the peace and contentment no matter what!

In these moments of struggling with circumstances that sometimes begin to overwhelm, I am learning to keep it simple. I can quickly redirect my mind by simply remembering the focus…Live for Christ! I can ask myself a simple question…What can I do for Him right now? Something about asking this question immediately makes the self-pity, self-absorption thinking take a 180 degree turn!

When asking, “What can I do for Christ right now?”, the answer can be as simple as described in Matthew 22: 37-39…

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.  This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

I can simply began praising God and rejoicing in my forever future with Him. I can think to myself, is there someone I can show love to…maybe a text or a phone call of encouragement. Loving God and loving others can certainly begin to cover the pain with joy!

Pain does not always go away, but when we live for Christ, we can conquer it with His strength, power, and love. Keeping it that simple and keeping the “forever focus” is a game changer!

The “Secret to Life” is available to all who want it, but not all will partake. It is free to everyone, but it will cost you everything! It will cost you yourself! You give up self and you live for Christ! Something amazing happens when you do this…you replace your selfishness, your self-pity, your worries and fears with the life-giving Life of Jesus Christ! Then, you can do all things through Him who strengthens you! (Philippians 4:13)

When you feel it is hard to let go of your pain, worries, and problems…just remember what Christ gave for each one of us. He gave Himself by dying on the cross for each of us. When you ask Jesus into your heart; then, your life truly begins! You don’t have to carry the burdens anymore!

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life.  For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17

Why is it so hard for even Christ followers to keep it simple and live life the way that Paul did? We get bogged down in our pain, losses, and confusion. When the the circumstances seem hard to bear, step back and remember to keep it simple. Live for Christ! Follow Paul’s example…

“Indeed, I count everything as loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord. For his sake I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, in order that I may gain Christ.” Philippians 3:8

And remember to…

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing,  give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

The Waterfall Experience

Read Time 5 Minutes

“Then I turned to see the voice that was speaking to me, and on turning I saw seven golden lampstands,  and in the midst of the lampstands one like a son of man, clothed with a long robe and with a golden sash around His chest.  The hairs of His head were white, like white wool, like snow. His eyes were like a flame of fire, His feet were like burnished bronze, refined in a furnace, and His voice was like the roar of many waters.” Revelation 1:12-15

My husband, Michael, is a pastor. Recently, he shared a message on this scripture in Revelation. The passage paints a picture of the majesty of our Savior, Jesus, as He was revealed to John on the island of Patmos in the Book of Revelation. In this description of our resplendent Savior, the part that sinks into my heart the most is “His voice was like the roar of many waters”. One Biblical translation describes His voice as “the sound of cascading waters”!

Have you ever sat beside a rushing roaring river before letting the loud and rhythmic sound drown out all your stress? Have you ever refreshed yourself by a gushing waterfall letting the spray rejuvenate your mind and body? Close your eyes for a minute and let your senses paint that picture in your head. There is just something about moving water that is both calming and invigorating! Now take that picture in your head…the power of the mighty flow of the water along with its tranquil and relaxing effects and picture it as Jesus’s voice speaking truth into your life! Picture His arms wrapped around you. He is speaking strength and peace into your life and will hold you up in His promises of perfect care!

While physically visiting a waterfall can be a wonderful refreshment and definitely a tangible reminder of God’s creation and love for us, you can experience that waterfall experience daily when you hear God’s voice!

I hear God’s voice in a variety of ways. It can be powerful and majestic like the waterfall when I am out in nature and enjoying His creation. His voice tells me He is mighty and in control! I have nothing to fear, and He wants to shower me with the riches of His beauty. I also hear Him when I am praying. Comforting thoughts and reminders of His goodness come to me as I talk quietly with Him. I hear His voice when I read His word. It reminds me of His promises and that He will never leave me! There are also times that He gives me clear answers by opening doors and making a path clear!

When you know Jesus as your Savior, you have the ability to hear His voice in different ways. When you know Him personally, that voice like the “roar of many waters” flows through you always and can provide rejuvenating refreshment daily. Sometimes, we just need to be reminded to listen and tap into all His goodness!

“The voice of the Lord is over the waters;
The God of glory thunders;
The Lord is over many waters.
 The voice of the Lord is powerful;
The voice of the Lord is full of majesty.” Psalm 29:3-4

“My sheep hear My voice, I know them, and they follow Me. I give them eternal life, and they will never perish—ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand. ” John 10: 27-28

What do God, waterfalls, and exercise have in common?

Rejuvenation! Healing! And, when kept in the right perspective and truth, Wellness! Acknowledging that God is our ultimate Healer, we can then fully partake in waterfalls and exercise as resources He gives us that aid in achieving a state of wellness!

In keeping with the purpose of my blog to connect faith and fitness, I believe that God and our relationship with Him must come first. When we are connected to the “True Vine” and have peace and wellness in our soul, then we are much better equipped to successfully engage in activities that help our physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

With that said, there is much scientific evidence to support that both waterfalls and exercise reduce stress, lower anxiety, and promote health. When talking health and science, it is important to realize and accept that God and science are not separate. Our Creator is the master scientist! It is not randomness that created the healing effects of waterfalls. It is not a coincidence that our bodies thrive on appropriate physical activity. God is the creator of the science behind all the functions of nature. He knew what He was doing when he designed natural resources and their usefulness to us including our health. He perfectly designed all the intricate workings of our bodies and has always known what parts of nature would offer health benefits and what physical activities would aid us in being fit.

“For it was You who created my inward parts;
You knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I will praise You
because I have been remarkably and wonderfully made.
Your works are wonderful,
and I know this very well.” Psalm 139: 13-14

Taken from the collective research of multiple sources, there is scientific evidence supporting that being near waterfalls and other frothing water sources produces positive health benefits. Some of these benefits mirror the benefits of exercise and its effects on the body.

When you are in the presence of a waterfall, by a rushing river, or watching ocean waves roll in, there is a reason you feel refreshment. When water molecules collide, they release negative ions into the air. When you are breathing in air that has a higher ratio of negative versus positive ions, your bloodstream receives some healthy benefits. High levels of negative ions boost energy and aid in positive mood, and have even been found to suppress serotonin levels. Thus being near splashing water can help ward off depression and reduce anxiety. These effects also support the general findings from research that people who spend time in nature are often happier than those who don’t. Therefore, there should be much motivation to make plans to spend time in His creation and bask near a beautiful waterfall, river, or ocean setting!

For some, it is not as easy to get out into nature frequently and enjoy the benefits regularly. Location and availability make a difference too. More thought and planning may have to go into making a trip. However, most individuals can partake in some form of exercise regularly. The benefits of exercise are widely known in our society. It has also become common knowledge that fitness activities help more than just the physical side of building strength and improving balance and flexibility.

Much like the waterfall effect, regular exercise helps you emotionally and mentally by boosting your energy and altering your chemical balance to give a positive mood and better outlook on life! Exercise is also known to reduce stress and anxiety and aid in helping to make improvements in depression. The benefits of exercise can grow when individuals take a break from “screen time”…much like when you are out in nature!

Both waterfall exposure and exercise can help people sleep better too! It is clear that the advantages of both being near water and taking part in fitness offer a multitude of healthy rewards towards being well!

For a real supercharge, plan hikes to involve ocean, river, and waterfall experiences. Make sure to linger by the water and soak up the positive effects! Spend time praising God, the Master creator and scientist, who has made it all perfectly possible!

“The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains,
The world, and those who live in it.
 For He has founded it upon the seas
And established it upon the rivers.”
Psalm 24: 1-2

Lauren Had a Little Lamb

“Delight yourself in the Lord,
    and he will give you the desires of your heart.” Psalm 37:4

Read Time 4 Minutes

Some years ago my daughter, Lauren, raised lambs for FFA. During her high school years, she raised 4 lambs…one each year. Not only was the experience new and maturing for Lauren, it was for me as well!

There is something very special about lambs! They are very Biblical, and represent the great depth and meaning of our relationship with Jesus in various ways. Watching Lauren’s relationship with each lamb develop and culminate each year became a beautiful real life illustration to me of some very special Biblical truths. It didn’t take long to realize the importance of the shepherd to the lamb…in this case, the shepherdess.

The photograph above came to my attention recently and inspired this blog post. The lamb’s name in the picture is Tova which is the Hebrew name meaning “The Lord is Good”. I want to use the photographs I’ve shared of Lauren and her “little” lamb (120 lbs) to illustrate a few truths about lambs and their shepherd. Most importantly, I want to illustrate the beauty of our relationship with Jesus, our very own Good Shepherd!

First, unlike any other animal, sheep depend on their shepherd for every single thing! A dog or a cat or most other animals can fend for themselves and protect themselves to some degree when left in the wild. Sheep can do nothing apart from their shepherd! During Lauren’s high school experience, it quickly became evident that each lamb at the barn knew their shepherdess and grew extremely attached! Lauren fed, watered, bathed, comforted, supplied medical care, sheared, weighed, corrected behaviors, and exercised her lamb. One year, her lamb, Maverick, wanted to butt himself against the bars until he bloodied his head. Lauren stayed much longer with him and provided her body to be the barrier between him and the bars until he trusted her and changed his behavior. She provided everything for her lamb, and her lamb would bleat passionately for her as she would walk towards it’s pen. Her lamb would follow her wherever she would go in the barnyard!

In Psalm 23: 1-3, the Bible lets us know that Jesus is our Good Shepherd:

“The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.
     He makes me lie down in green pastures.
He leads me beside still waters.
    He restores my soul.
He leads me in paths of righteousness
    for his name’s sake.”

In John 15:5, Jesus makes it clear that apart from Him, we can do nothing!

 “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.”

Lauren’s relationship with her lamb certainly demonstrated what it can be like when we let Jesus be our Shepherd. We will lack for nothing!

The second thing that the picture above illustrates for me is that when we are abiding in Jesus, we can run with Him and leap with Him and experience great joy with Him…even through the dark and difficult times, we can experience delight in Him! Look at the joy in both Lauren and Tova’s faces as they leap together over the ropes! This can be us with Jesus when we follow Him!

“I have spoken these things to you so that My joy may be in you and your joy may be complete.” John 15:11

The next picture illustrates another depth of our relationship with Jesus. There are times when we face difficult circumstances and even with the joy in our hearts, we can experience sad emotions. Sometimes, we just want comfort and rest and to be held by Jesus. He is there for us then too! This picture of Lauren and Tova was taken on auction day. It was a stressful time for sheep. However, you can see that Tova was resting in perfect peace when Lauren was holding her. Tova DID make auction, and her future was certain slaughter, but still…she rested in Lauren’s loving arms.

“In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
    for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety.”
Psalm 4:8

“Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
    I will fear no evil,
for you are with me;
    your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.” Psalm 23:4

Finally, Lauren’s shepherdess days reminded me of the most amazing thing in the Bible…Jesus switches roles. While still being the Good Shepherd for us; ultimately, He becomes The Lamb. He willingly goes to The Cross allowing Himself to be slaughtered for us…for our sins!

“The next day he saw Jesus coming toward him, and said, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!” John 1:29

Let us run, leap, and experience the joy of the Perfect Lamb! Let us rest in His arms when comfort is needed! Let us remember that without Him, we are nothing!

A Poem for Thought

Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. ~ Martin Luther King Jr.

Read Time 3 Minutes

Where is the light at the end of the tunnel? As we enter into our second year of Covid-19, some believe the vaccine is the light. However, the rollout of the vaccine has not been without many challenges and many changing predictions of facts, immunity, and about the road back to a working productive society.

All of this leaves Americans with an array of feelings, and still many people are on opposite ends of the spectrum on how our country should be handling all the issues that it faces today.

As Christians, we can struggle with how to deal with the troubles in our country especially if we don’t agree with some of our leaders. We have hope though, and it is a hope much mightier than a vaccine and much mightier than what individuals hold the offices of President, governors, and other leaders.

God does give us instructions on submitting to governing authorities (Romans 13:1-2 ; 1 Peter 2:13-17), and He also lets us know that He is King of Kings who has already overcome the world…hence, our peace and our victory for eternity (John 16:33)!

“The Lord sat enthroned at the flood;
the Lord sits enthroned, King forever.” Psalm 29:10

“God will bring this about in His own time. He is the blessed and only Sovereign,
the King of kings,
and the Lord of lords,…” 1 Timothy 5:15

I am thankful that we still have freedom of speech in our country and that we can use that freedom to speak out about our feelings and injustices. While I usually use my blog to offer uplifting encouragement, today, I want to share a poem that was laid on my heart. It is a poem that speaks about problems that I believe are being mostly ignored in our country. As I quoted above, Martin Luther King Jr. said, “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” While I fully believe that Covid-19 is a terrible virus and has caused harm and loss to many families, I feel that our leaders should be addressing all the harm and losses from the fallout of the decisions made to combat the virus itself. I have much empathy for families who have lost loved ones to this sickness and much admiration for doctors, nurses, and all who are doing their part to fight the virus. With that said, I share a poem that cries out for some attention to other matters that are destroying lives across our country as well.

A Bigger Beast

Covid-19 is a horrible beast,
stealing lives across our country, across our world!
I believe, though, that there is a bigger beast…a deplorable beast stealing even more lives in a slow and degenerating way!
It is the beast created by the hyper-focus on this virus, the beast of media, “experts”, and politics!
This beast steals in a slow and silent way.
It steals peace
It steals security
It steals education, jobs, and businesses!
It steals economy
It steals the now and the future
It steals family time and celebrations.
It steals the ability to have a loved one with you in the hospital,
even at death’s moment itself!
It steals togetherness
It steals the smile on a face,
It steals emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
It steals fresh air
And the ability to share a meal with friends.
It steals freedoms a little at a time!
It steals a church’s congregation, community service, and visits with the elderly.

It is a beast that suffocates, that does kill,
That slowly steals a life by making it lifeless.
It steals patriotism
It steals a country!
It steals truth!

In the place of the treasures that it steals,
it gifts society with fear and dismay.
It creates distress, disfunction, and division!
It encourages isolation, depression, and loneliness!
It tells you that you are the enemy if you don’t agree,
That you are bad,
That you do not care for others!
It manipulates,
It lies!
It wants control!
This is the bigger of the two beasts!

By
Robin Bauer-Funderburk
01-21-21

Our country and our leaders need constant and fervent prayer for all the coming days and decisions that need to be made. May they seek God for wisdom and guidance. May we each show neighborly love to one another everyday for these are certainly tough times. May God be glorified by Americans seeking Him in revived passionate ways! And may we keep looking up to the One who has overcome the world!

“I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “the One who is, who was, and who is coming, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8

2021…Ready, Set, Go!

I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Read Time 5 Minutes

In keeping with my original inspiration for writing my blog, “True Vine Living” (being healthy spiritually and physically), I want to reiterate that I believe that true health and well-being first and foremost begins with being healthy spiritually. The only way to accomplish that is by giving your life to Christ.

“…for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8

We cannot exist completely whole and in good health if our spirit is unclean. None of us can achieve this on our own. We must be made new by the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ. We can try and try, but we cannot keep ourselves without any sin in our hearts. It is a constant battle that cannot be won on our own. We can; however, be cleansed and redeemed when we ask Jesus into our hearts. This means that we acknowledge that He died for us on the cross in place of us for our sins. He is God’s Son. God loves us so much that He gave His Son for us. When we except that we cannot make ourselves perfect and without sin, and that Jesus died for us, and that He is our way to Heaven for eternity, we can be victors over sin! When we ask Him to live in our heart and He becomes our master…our Lord and Savior, then true healthy living can begin. If you have not yet asked Jesus into your heart, I lovingly hope and pray that you will make this step right now in 2021.

“For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. For God did not send His Son into the world that He might condemn the world, but that the world might be saved through Him.” John 3:16-17

“For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God…” Ephesians 2:8

Once you have a personal saving relationship with Jesus Christ, then you can begin to tackle all the daily aspects of life “through Him who strengthens” you! (Philippians 4:13)

When we are spiritually healthy, then we have more power to take care of our physical health! As a personal trainer, the other inspiration for my blog is to be an encourager for healthy living through fitness and building good food habits. In this desire, I have put together two manageable and hopefully fun, motivating, and tasty lists for exercise and healthy eating ideas to try in this new year (with a 2021 twist)!

If you are interested in home exercise ideas, read on. If you are interested in healthy food ideas for snacks and small meals packed with good things for your body, you can view this list in the last section of this post.

“Twenty-One” At Home Exercises

With many gyms closed, mask mandates, and social distancing guidelines that don’t seem to be going away in the new year, most of us have found exercising challenging to accomplish. It’s been very hard to feel motivated. In this new year, ask God to help you in your motivation for physical well-being. Then, realize that you have a “gym” in and around your home with very little equipment needed for physical fitness, and the best equipment being your own body!

Here are “21” exercises for 2021 that you can do right in your own home or in close proximity to your home. Each of these exercises can be modified to be made easier or more difficult. If you are not sure what some are or the proper form to use, you can search the internet for very easy video demonstrations. I am also happy to help answer questions. You may leave a comment on my blog or message me through Facebook if you want a little help or guidance. The point is, just pick a few exercises to get started and do a little research on a few if you are unfamiliar. Be careful and don’t overdo to prevent injury. Build up to more as you feel you can. You may choose from these “21” exercises or use others you know to get started on a healthier you. If it’s a repetitive exercise, try “21” reps. Exercise for at least “21” minutes or more 3 to 5 times a week. This is a small start to building an exercise program. This is a big start to being physically healthy in 2021! The emphasis on “21” is to remember to conquer 2021 no matter what!

  1. Take a brisk “21” minute walk.
  2. Stretch various muscles. Choose a muscle (hamstring, calf, quad, etc.) Slowly stretch the muscle and gently hold for at least 21 seconds. You would be amazed at how stretching daily makes you feel so much better. I never miss this part of exercise!
  3. Pushups – traditional or modified by doing a pushup on an incline using a stable chair against a wall or park bench
  4. tricep dips– again using a stable chair against a wall or a park bench
  5. bicep curls– require dumbbells
  6. chest press– require dumbbells
  7. overhead press– require dumbells
  8. jumping jacks
  9. mountain climbers
  10. squats
  11. calf raises
  12. lunges
  13. sit-ups (core)
  14. crunches (core)
  15. plank– hold 21 or more seconds (core)
  16. butterfly kicks (core)
  17. bicycle floor exercise (core)
  18. bridges (gluts and core)
  19. climb stairs at home or in a park
  20. high knees drill
  21. Play a little basketball or play catch with someone! Make sure to have fun!

“Twenty-One” Good Foods for 2021

These foods made my list because most of them are complete protein foods, or complex carbohydrates that rank low on the glycemic index. A few of them are on my list because they offer another type of benefit. Of course if you have special dietary needs, some of these foods may not be for you. Enjoy some of them if you can, and pack your body with the energy and nutrients that you need to tackle 2021!

  1. A handful of natural almonds…one of my favorite healthy treats. They have many benefits, and I like that the Vitamin E is good for skin and eyes!
  2. humus with whole wheat pita
  3. edamame
  4. Ezekiel Bread
  5. yogurt with granola
  6. natural peanut butter on celery (add a few raisins for “Ants on a Log”)
  7. mozzarella cheese stick
  8. whole egg
  9. mixture of peanuts and sunflower seeds
  10. dried apricots
  11. an apple
  12. herbal tea sweetened with honey
  13. lentil soup and whole wheat bread
  14. rice and beans
  15. grapefruit
  16. cherries
  17. almond butter on an apple
  18. carrots with humus
  19. grapes
  20. oatmeal made with milk
  21. Because we all need a treat…dark chocolate (the healthiest if you need some chocolate)!

May 2021 be an amazing year for each of us no matter the circumstances surrounding us. May we be healthy and well by seeking the One who has already overcome the world! (John 16:33)

“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided for you.” Matthew 6:33

Mere Breath!

You, indeed, have made my days short in length,
and my life span as nothing in Your sight.
Yes, every mortal man is only a vapor. Selah~ Psalm 39:5

Read Time 2 Minutes

“Behold, you have made my days a few handbreadths,
    and my lifetime is as nothing before you.
Surely all mankind stands as a mere breath!” Psalm 39:5

This verse reminds me that our lifetime is just a fleeting moment in eternity. The idea that our life is just a mere breath or only a vapor as some Bible translations tell us, can be a scary thought. It can make us question what is the significance of our brief life on earth. If you are not a Christian, it is terrifying!

On the other hand, this idea that “mortal man is only a vapor” can bring us great comfort when we know the One who makes life worth living…the One who, through Him, gives us eternal life in paradise (John 3:16; John 14:6; Luke 23:43). Our struggles, hurts, sicknesses, and heartaches are short-lived in comparison to our forever life in Heaven.

But what about this time we have on earth, if it is but a mere breath? What is the significance? What are we to do with it? How will we make the most out of our life right now in 2021 while we wait for our forever paradise?

First, we can know that God has plans for us right now and in eternity. He is working all things for our good…ALL! That means right now and forever. He has plans for us too…plans to prosper us and not harm us (Jeremiah 29:11; Romans 8:28; John 14:2). Even our present troubles prosper us when we are refined though Christ and made more like Him. We grow in maturity and wisdom and gain new levels of comfort and peace through hardships when we are living in Him. This is not harmful…it is beautiful and it is fruitful…it makes us come forth as gold (Job 23:10)! It can shine a light to others too!

No one lights a lamp and puts it under a basket, but rather on a lampstand, and it gives light for all who are in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven. Matthew 5:15-16

In Ecclesiastes, the whole theme is about there being nothing new under the sun. Everything is “hebel” a Hebrew word meaning vanity, a vapor, a puff, a breath…meaningless! The author discovers, however, that without God, “hebel” is all life is, but WITH GOD, every breath counts and every breath is full of meaning!

It’s 2021! Let’s make every breath, every moment, every thought, and every action count for His glory and His kingdom! Happy New Year!

Marking Time

Here is what I have seen to be good: it is appropriate to eat, drink, and experience good in all the labor one does under the sun during the few days of his life God has given him, because that is his reward. Ecclesiastes 5:18

Read Time 5 Minutes

As 2020 draws to a close, I find myself like many Americans wanting to check off another day, and get this year concluded! Weary is how this year has left me, and I have often felt myself succumb to the feeling of just “marking time”. It has been a struggle to overcome this attitude in light of all the events that have unfolded this year!

Covid-19 with it’s deaths, sicknesses, and all the politicalisms that are attached to this virus have worn our spirits thin. Businesses closing, jobs lost, school children learning in isolation, depression, suicides, and a huge lack of trust in leaders are additional results of this pandemic. People have felt alone in hospitals without family being allowed to visit. Assisted living facilities have been on lock-down. Weddings and other celebrations have been whittled down to the bear minimum. Add to that a divided country, riots, and a crazy election, and you have many great big reasons to leave this year behind!

The struggle this year has been personal. My husband and I had just made a major move a couple of months prior to the onset of 2020. We moved from Texas to Washington far away from family and friends and all the familiarity that came from having lived in Texas for 47 years of my life. We moved because God led my husband to pastor a small church in Bremerton, WA. I retired from 28 years of teaching and started my own personal training business. We came with the excitement of God’s plans for us and the enjoyment of getting to make new friends. Still, we knew that any big move or change has its challenges. These changes along with the combination of all the events during this historic year have certainly tested my endurance. Church services had to go to online for a time period and continue to be altered. My business has for the most part been shut down by the pandemic. Quite honestly, this year has been testing the daily “trusting God” part of my faith as I wrestle with a variety of feelings each day.

Over the years I have had a good share of difficult times in my life that have grown my faith. I’ve experienced tragic death, unexpected divorce, rejection and deception, and major medical trauma. Through these trials, I was able to learn first hand how God gets me through every trial and works all things for my good. I have grown deeper in my walk with Him through these experiences and hardships. I have learned to know great sorrow, but also have JOY as I walk hand in hand with God navigating troubled times. I’ve learned to believe and trust that no matter what comes my way, God will sustain me. However, even with all I have experienced and learned, God does not seem to be finished refining my faith. I’ve asked God this year, “Why after all I’ve been through and all I have learned and know about Your all sufficiency, do I struggle with anxiety and other emotions in 2020?” I think this year, He has shown me that He wants me to rely on Him even more every moment of the day! He is not just for the major trials that knock us off our feet. His strength is for every aspect of our day in order to conquer the enemies of anxiety, fear, self-pity, and isolation. He wants to take me into an even deeper walk with him. For this, I am thankful. God loves me so much that He keeps growing me and drawing me closer to Him!

“Consider it a great joy, my brothers, whenever you experience various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance.  But endurance must do its complete work, so that you may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.” James 1:2-4

I think what I have felt this year, many others have felt as well… “Let me just check off another day and move on”. I know that God has been telling me not to have this attitude and to not let the negative feelings have any control over me. I think what God is teaching me through 2020 is not to just MARK TIME when I feel overwhelmed with wrong feelings, or I feel disenchanted. He wants me to live each day to the fullest making the most of every moment that He gives me. Each day He gives me is not a mistake, it is a gift!

The following verses reveal that we are certainly not meant to “mark time” with the days that God gives us. These verses are a dose of good medicine for me, and maybe they can help you as well to finish out 2020 victoriously through Him (Philippians 4:13) making the most of every day!

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not rely on your own understanding;
 think about Him in all your ways,
and He will guide you on the right paths.” Proverbs 3:5-6

“Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,  knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. 39 And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” Matthew 22:37-39

“And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” Colossians 3:17

 “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil.” Ephesians 5:15-16

“Therefore, God’s chosen ones, holy and loved, put on heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience,  accepting one another and forgiving one another…” Colossians 3:12-13 

“The Future is, of all things, the thing least like eternity. It is the most temporal part of time–for the Past is frozen and no longer flows, and the Present is all lit up with eternal rays.”
― C.S. Lewis, quote from The Screwtape Letters

Who knows what 2021 will have to offer, but with God on our side (Psalm 118:6), we can make every day count! There is much to accomplish in the work God has given each of us, moments to show care towards others, and time to love God with all of our heart and spend time with Him every day. I want to finish out this year having learned better how to make all moments count and not just check off another day. Hopefully, by sharing my struggle this year, I have used my time today well and offered some encouragement that might help you too! Keep looking up!

“This is the day that the Lord has made;
    let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

Always Certain

I thought I would share something certain…something we can count on always. We live in tough and uncertain times, but God’s character is always sure, undeniable, indisputable, and never changes. We can be confident and feel victorious when we are HIS!

This is a collection of God’s character from Bible verses I highlighted in yellow (the color I use to highlight God’s divine character). This is but a small collection, and taken alone, just scrapes the surface of the majesty and love of God. However, by just reviewing this small assemblage of who God is, I find myself being reminded of how blessed beyond measure I am that He is my God!

GOD IS:

Righteous ~ Just~ Compassionate ~ Gracious ~ Slow to anger ~ Faithful in love ~ Good ~ HE performs valiantly~ HIS love endures forever. GOD knows you, searches you, understands you, is aware of all your ways, has extraordinary knowledge, and encircles you!

HE has eternal power and is divine in nature! HE shows no favoritism, and HE gives life to the dead! HIS spirit intercedes for us! GOD is: Wisdom ~ Knowledge ~ HE has unsearchable judgements and untraceable ways! HE gives endurance. HE gives encouragement. All things are from HIM...we exist for HIM!

HE is the Father of all mercies and the GOD of all comfort! Everything is from HIM. HE gave us the ministry of reconciliation in CHRIST (reconciling the world to himself)! HE doesn’t count our trespasses. HIS fruits of HIS SPIRIT are love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, and self-control. HE gives us incalculable riches of CHRIST!

HE is multifaceted wisdom and able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think! GOD is vast strength. HIS power enables HIM to subject everything to HIMSELF! HIS full nature dwells in the body of CHRIST! HIS word is living and effective and sharper than a double edged sword! GOD is a consuming fire. HE is the GOD of all grace!

“I am the Alpha and Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.” Revelation 1:8