Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Sharing one of my favorite songs.

Dear friend, I pray that you may enjoy good health and that all may go well with you, even as your soul is getting along well. 3 John 1:2

In John’s letter to his close friend, the first concern that John expressed was the hope that Gaius’ physical health equaled his spiritual health. Gaius was living faithfully according to the truth, which indicated that he possessed excellent mental and spiritual health.

There is a relationship between the mind and the body; it is one of co-dependence. A healthy mind usually produces a well-maintained body that enables us to have a productive life. And optimal physical health empowers us to achieve the highest level of mental, emotional, and spiritual health.

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines health as a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. The WHO states that “there is no health without mental health.”

Our bodies are interdependent; all internal systems function in a perfect state of homeostasis unless disease processes exist. Most chronic illnesses such as Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Hypertension are a direct result of inadequate or unhealthy nutritional intake. There are exceptions such as congenital defects, and diseases that arise secondary to adverse reactions from prescribed medications or other co-morbidities.

Another collaborative relationship exists between proper nutrition and the strength and functioning of our Immune System.  In 1997, RK Chandra published an article, Nutrition, and the Immune System: An Introduction, in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. According to Chandra (1997), the Immune System depends on dietary intake and proper nutritional status to function effectively against disease.

To translate in simple terms, we have been aware since 1997 that eating healthy keeps our Immune System in peak performance to battle against diseases caused by viruses, bacteria, etc. While there are no guarantees, we do know that fast food, high calorie, high sodium, and sugary foods are junk foods that contain little to zero nutrients, produce insulin resistance- a precursor of Diabetes, Obesity, and Heart disease.

We will not ask why the education of healthy foods/nutrition has not been the primary focus until the last decade. Nor will we wonder why eating healthy has not been emphasized as a measure to boost our Immune Systems during this pandemic. No, we will not criticize or place the blame on others, we will empower ourselves by researching credible websites and learn the needful nutritional required to strengthen our Immune systems.

The following are some easy to research questions on dietary foods.

1. What is the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables?
2. Name 3 green leafy vegetables.
3. Name 1 vegetable from each color group- red, orange, and yellow.
4. How much is considered a serving size of fruit?
5. Which lettuce has the lowest nutritional value?
6. True or False Nuts are an incomplete protein.
7. True or False Cows milk is necessary for the growth and development of children
8. True or False Beans, legumes, and fish are part of a plant-based diet.
9. True or False “My Plate” has replaced the traditional Food Pyramid.
10. True or False The Food and Drug Administration has provided Americans with food guides and food pyramids.

Disclaimer: If you have congenital or chronic diseases and take prescription medications, Call your Primary Care Provider (your Doctor) before making any changes in your diet.

Of course, we believe in God, and we will pray daily for His protection from COVID-19 and other diseases. We will pray for the physical healing of those who are battling the infection from the coronavirus. We will pray for God to place a hedge of protection around all frontline workers regardless of their occupation. And we will pray for God to give us the strength to change our diets and care for our bodies.

Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; 1 Corinthians 6:19

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

Links to pertinent nutritional information:

MyPlate: A New Alternative to the Food Pyramid

https://www.pcrm.org/news/blog/foods-boost-immune-system

https://www.health.com/food/immunity-boosting-foods

References

Promoting mental health: concepts, emerging evidence, practice: summary report / a report from the World Health Organization, Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse in collaboration with the Victorian Health Promotion Foundation (VicHealth), and the University of Melbourne. (2004).

Chandra R.K. (1997).  Nutrition and the immune system: an introduction. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Aug;66(2):460S-463S.

 

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways. Psalm 91:11

Yesterday, I read a FB post from a healthcare provider who stated that she was fully aware that she would eventually become infected with COVID-19.

I will share my experience as a nurse when I worked with patients who had a diagnosis of Tuberculosis disease. My nursing experience began in 1978 at a time when we did not use gloves unless it was in a surgical setting, nor did we have access to the N95 respirator mask that is currently used as PPE for protection when caring for tuberculosis patients. Even without PPE, the angels of the Lord protected me from the exposure to Mycobacterium tuberculosis, the organism that causes Tuberculosis. I never seroconverted to a positive reaction on the PPD test.

We must never place limitations on God. I have been the benefactor of many miracles in my own life. In the times of abject disobedience, still, God never abandoned me. Throughout my life, God used impossible circumstances to remind me that He still loved me, and I wholeheartedly believe in His love, His grace, His mercies, and His power.

The infiltration of the COVID-19 virus has created a trend among some believers; we are placing our trust in inanimate objects instead of God. The myths and misinformation from unbelievers have convinced us to continue our routine duties. The media is also responsible for promoting a false sense of security and protection from handmade facemasks and dust masks that are readily available to the general public.

Mass confusion now prompts many to downplay the strength of this uncontrollable virus. Because we have chosen to disregard Social Distancing and the Stay at Home ordinances, the virus continues to spread and wreak havoc. Satan has used doubt to distract us from our primary focus which is to obey the preventative measures put into place to aid in the containment of the COVID-19 virus.

The American people are engaged in a tug-of-war between expert healthcare professionals and those who lack knowledge of the infectious processes of organisms. As children of God, we do not have to succumb to false beliefs. We have a connection to the Creator of all humanity. Our greatest resource is available to us through prayer, all we have to do is ask God for wisdom and discernment. Now, if any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him. James 1:5

Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

For those who are diligently working to make homemade masks with an unknown material that serves as a filter, I applaud them for their efforts; however, not even surgical masks provide protection against the coronavirus COVID-19.

While a surgical mask may be effective in blocking splashes and large-particle droplets, a face mask, by design, does not filter or block very small particles in the air that may be transmitted by coughs, sneezes, or certain medical procedures. Surgical masks also do not provide complete protection from germs and other contaminants because of the loose fit between the surface of the face mask and your face. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration

Even for healthcare professionals, the FDA states, “It is important to recognize that the optimal way to prevent airborne transmission is to use a combination of interventions from across the hierarchy of controls, not just PPE alone.”

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/personal-protective-equipment-infection-control/n95-respirators-and-surgical-masks-face-masks

For you are a caregiver for someone with an Upper Respiratory Infection or have to care for someone who is ill, please refer to the http://www.cdc.gov website for guidelines.

We should agree that we are in the worst dilemma in our lifetime. The impact of this global disease has impacted us emotionally, socially, and economically. Do we have any recourse-is there a source of help in this difficult situation? Yes, God has promised to never leave us or forsake us. Our part is to individually and collectively approach the throne of grace. Will God protect us?

1. Living a faith-based life eliminates wavering between self-reliance or the pretense that we are fully trusting in God. John 20:24-29 tells us of Jesus’ disciple known as “Doubting Thomas.” He would only believe if he visualized with his eyes. But Jesus said to him, “Have you believed because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.” John 20:29
2. Romans 13:1-2 says: “Obey the government, for God, is the One who has put it there. There is no government anywhere that God has not placed in power. So those who refuse to obey the law of the land are refusing to obey God, and punishment will follow.” Clarification of this verse is that our obedience to God supersedes the law of the land if there is conflict.

Believers, we must not disobey our government, state, county and city’s orders to “Stay at Home” and “Shelter in Place” due to boredom nor should we fabricate reasons to justify why we are running errands every day. Do not be deceived by Satan! His purpose is to seek and destroy. We must utilize common sense, and possess humility; a facemask and our vehicles do not provide safety and protection from an airborne virus.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

Would you seek medical evaluation and treatment from an unlicensed person? We must acquiesce to the advice of our public-health experts. Do not place yourself in dangerous and risky situations, if the grocery store is filled to capacity, then choose an earlier time to shop. The individuals outside of your immediate family should not be closer than a 6 ft. distance.

Our spiritual walk with God should include daily and measurable growth. We do not repeat the same mistakes that we made yesterday or last week. God has provided us with the guidelines to live holy, Make straight paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be debilitated, but rather healed. Pursue peace with all men, as well as holiness, without which no one will see the Lord. Hebrews 12:13-14

We must never test God. “If You are the Son of God,” he said, “throw Yourself down. For it is written: ‘He will command His angels concerning You, and they will lift You up in their hands so that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.'” Jesus said to him, “Again, it is written, ‘You shall not put the Lord your God to the test.” Matthew 4:7.

God’s promises are conditional and require faith and obedience before He brings His promises to fruition. Are you praying for protection from the coronavirus? God will always do His part when we humble ourselves and obey His perfect will for our lives.

Even if we faithfully do our part, we may still contract the coronavirus. In every situation, we must possess the same faith like Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego who boldly proclaimed: If we are thrown into the blazing furnace, the God we serve is able to deliver us from it, and he will deliver us from Your Majesty’s hand. But even if he does not, we want you to know, Your Majesty, that we will not serve your gods or worship the image of gold you have set up. Daniel 3:17-18

When we possess a rebellious spirit, confession and repentance of our sins are necessary to renew our covenant with God. Ask God to reveal your purpose during this time and to give you peace and a spirit of contentment.

Boredom can be alleviated by studying the Bible, praying, and listening to sermons and music which honors God. With the remainder of our time, we can cultivate closer relationships with our family. This is the perfect time for us to pay attention to our spouses and our children. Maintain social contact through phone calls, video calls, etc. Remember the seniors, the singles, and the disabled who would benefit from knowing that someone cares.

God has blessed each of us with spiritual gifts and innate talents. Discover hidden abilities while you stay at home. And for the educators, all students have transitioned to a homeschooled status, and many parents are unable to assist with their studies. Skype and messenger allow face-to-face contact. God has blessed us to bless others.

As the virus continues to run rampant in Texas, it is sad to report that the cases continue to multiply throughout our State, especially in Houston, Dallas, and El Paso. https://www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/ The New York Times reports that many people are still “out and about” in the Lone Star State, which contributes to the increase of this infectious disease.

Pray for a personal transformation. Now is the time to dutifully prepare for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ.

Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life. Revelation 2:10

Amen! I desperately want that crown of life.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020

With the drastic change in our lives, many of us have developed creative hobbies that can keep us busy.

Just sharing this pattern for any crocheters.

Sonya

https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-us/p/togetherness-mandala-and-square-crochet-pattern-by-hattie-risdale

Ellen G. White Writings
ellenwhite.org

Maranatha Devotionals
Maranatha 91/368

God’s Pledge of Security, March 29

The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished. 2 Peter 2:9.

In the time of trial before us God’s pledge of security will be placed upon those who have kept the word of His patience…. The pillar of cloud which speaks wrath and terror to the transgressor of God’s law is light and mercy and deliverance to those who have kept His commandments. The arm strong to smite the rebellious will be strong to deliver the loyal. Every faithful one will surely be gathered….

What part will you act in the closing scenes of this world’s history? … Do you realize the grand work of preparation that is going on in heaven and on earth? … Let none now tamper with sin, the source of every misery in our world…. Let not the destiny of your soul hang upon an uncertainty. Know that you are fully on the Lord’s side. Let the inquiry go forth from sincere hearts and trembling lips, “Who shall be able to stand?” Have you, in these last precious hours of probation, been putting the very best material into your character building? Have you been purifying your souls from every stain? Have you followed the light? Have your works corresponding to your profession of faith?

Is the softening, subduing influence of the grace of God working upon you? … Are you letting your light shine to illumine the nations that are perishing in their sins? Do you realize that you are to stand in defense of God’s commandments before those who are treading them underfoot?

It is possible to be a partial, formal believer, and yet be found wanting and lose eternal life. It is possible to practice some of the Bible injunctions and be regarded as a Christian, and yet perish because you lack qualifications essential to Christian character…. While mercy lingers, while the Saviour is making intercession, let us make thorough work for eternity. 58Testimonies for the Church 6:404, 405.

The great crisis is just before us. To meet its trials and temptations, and to perform its duties, will require persevering faith. But we may triumph gloriously; not one watching, praying, believing soul will be ensnared by the enemy. 59Testimonies for the Church 6:404.

Copyright © 2020 by Ellen G. White. All Rights Reserved.

And now, just as you accepted Christ Jesus as your Lord, you must continue to follow him. Colossians 2:6 NLT

I can recall the most profound statement by my Nursing 1 Professor, “As nurses, you will be forever on a learning curve.” And she was 100% accurate, our world is dynamic, with technology and medicine rapidly advancing toward more exceptional achievements daily. One cannot remain qualified to care for others without continuous education.

Once we accept the plan of Salvation, we cannot relax, we are forever on a learning curve. The Bible is our guide for everyday life. Without the diligent study of the Word of God, our attention quickly shifts by the diversions and false teachings that are rampant in our time.

Although books have lost their popularity among the subsequent generations, do yourself a favor and make an investment by purchasing a hard copy of the Bible. All 66 books are readily available for serious study. There is no need for an electrical outlet, no apps to send notifications, and no interruptions from phone calls.

My Mother, who is 86, never worries, is always happy, and has complete faith and trust in God. I recently asked her what the secret is to possessing peace, especially in troublesome times. She shared with me that she is blessed because of her diligent study of the Bible. She has a personal relationship with God based on the knowledge of knowing who God really is. From believing His promises, her faith is unwavering. Yes, Mom’s confidence in God reflects her true love for Him.

The only way to prepare spiritually for living in the last days is to have knowledge of the Trinity Godhead–God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. How much do you really know about Jesus?

The Bible talks about Jesus Himself, who He is, what He has done for us, what He does in us, and what He will do when He does return. After all, the more we focus on Jesus, the more we become like Him, and the more we obey Him, the more prepared we will be for all that awaits us. This holds true both in the immediate future and in the end, the day when we do enter the “place” that Jesus has prepared for those who love Him. Norman R. Gulley, PhD

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge. Proverbs 18:15. Our Salvation is personal, each of us is responsible to pray and study to establish and maintain a relationship with God.

If you do not know where to begin with your study of the Word of God, start with the Book of Matthew. Matthew provides us with the complete life of Jesus Christ, from His ancestry to His birth, death, and resurrection. The Books of Psalms and Proverbs provides us with real-life challenges and the appropriate actions we must take to build our faith and trust in God and how to live as a Believer.

The Bible points out the differences between Believers and Unbelievers. We are empowered by the scriptures to learn and to do our part in the plan of Salvation. Remember God’s promises are conditional, serving God requires action on our part. With diligent studying and praying, we become steadfast by keeping our focus on Jesus, the King of Kings, and the Lord of Lords.

Surely, we now are living in “the end of the days” (Daniel 12:13). But while we do not know when the end–climaxing with the second coming of Jesus–will come, we do not need to know. We need to know only that it will come, and that when it does, we must be prepared. Norman R. Gulley, PhD

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2020