Steps 2 Success with Spiritual Solutions

Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable–if anything is excellent or praiseworthy–think about such things. Philippians 4:8 NIV

Within the past year, I have made many important lifestyle changes that positively impacted the treatment plan for the management of my two medical diagnoses: High Blood Pressure and Diabetes Type 2. From making healthy food choices, I have a normal cholesterol level and a normal blood sugar level. However, I am still at risk for heart disease because of my health history which includes obesity.

Recently I was told that the results of my Cardiac Stress test were abnormal which did not come as a surprise. I was aware that something was awry when I experienced chest pain which resulted in an emergency room visit and inpatient admission to the hospital. Although I did not have a heart attack, and my lipid test indicated that my cholesterol has dropped 22 points, my coronary arteries contain plaque (cholesterol is a component) from the years that I consumed a high calorie, high fat, and high sugar diet.

At some point, we are certain to reach a crossroads regarding our health where we are forced to take small steps or giant leaps toward achieving wellness.

And yes, there are times when we feel that making those steps to improve the quality of our lives is too difficult. However, we will have to face the consequences of not making the best choices in our past, and our health will decline as a result of letting our desires dictate what we eat and creating a sedentary lifestyle.

“Risk factors or conditions that increase your risk of developing a disease. Risk factors are either modifiable, meaning you can take measures to change them, or non-modifiable, which means they cannot be changed.”

Modifiable factors:

Are you dealing with a high level of stress on a daily basis? What type of foods do you eat on a daily basis? Do you exercise 20-30 minutes daily?

Non-Modifiable factors:

We are unable to change our Family history; Age; Gender; and Ethnicity.

In the previous blog entitled, “Healthy Bites,” I identified the lifestyle changes that I needed to make, in order to achieve an optimal level of health. The chest pain that I experienced this week brought with it the reality for immediate change. I have the proof from test results that the modifiable changes in which I have control over, must occur immediately!

I have created a tracking system by keeping a daily food intake and exercise journal. In addition, I am praying for the strength to commit to taking care of my “fearfully and wonderfully made” body.

It is a choice to take care of our bodies, and serving God includes obeying his perfect plan for eating nutrients that promote health and strengthening our muscles by exercising on a daily basis. Making the decision to eat right and get our bodies moving through exercise will bring positive results.

I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

Prayer for today: Dear God, We ask you for the strength as we commit to eating healthy foods and exercising our bodies. We strive to be obedient to your plan for us to have spiritual, mental, emotional, and physical health as indicated in your Holy Word. We admit that you know what is best for our lives. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2019

https://www.ucsfhealth.org/education/understanding_your_risk_for_heart_disease/

And God said, “Behold, I have given you every plant yielding seed that is on the face of all the Earth, and every tree with seed in its fruit. You shall have them for food.” Genesis 1:29

Dear friend, I hope all is well with you and that you are as healthy in body as you are strong in spirit. 3 John 1:2

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the color green?

As a Vegan, I think of all of the healthy dark leafy-green veggies that fill half of my plate once a day: Spinach, kale, and collards are at the top of my favorites list. A plant-based diet is definitely not limited to recognizable veggies or salads. There is an unlimited number of mouthwatering recipes that will satisfy the most discriminating palate and provide the required nutrients for a healthy mind and body.

Although I have maintained a 40 lb weight loss for over a year, I am ready to shed more pounds to decrease my BMI-Body Mass Index. So, I started researching to determine what additional changes would be required to modify my lifestyle again? The tips listed are based on changes according to my personal habits.

1. Develop and utilize a daily meal planner…if it’s not on the menu then don’t eat it. Reduce your portion sizes–eat off a saucer instead of a plate.

2. Give up the chewing gum and hard candy habits–stresses the digestive system by keeping it hyperactive.

3. Increase veggie intake to 3-5 cups daily.

4. Reduce carb intake to once daily, preferably before 6 pm.

5. Start walking or swimming at least 3 times per week.

6. Enjoy the summer fruits by making popsicles, and freeze organic grapes–they taste like bites of sorbet.

Our bodies respond well to the tender loving care of feeding them with foods packed with powerful nutrients.

Take a moment to determine the lifestyle changes that are required for you to achieve a healthier mind and body.

Prayer for today: Dear God, Our bodies are not our own–they belong to you. Help us to remember that we were created in your image, and it is our responsibility to care for ourselves by choosing healthy and nutritional foods. We ask you to give us the strength and discipline to make the necessary changes to achieve an optimal level of wellness and health. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2019

“The living owe it to those who no longer can speak to tell their story.” Czesław Miłosz

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

I wish I had wings like a dove, so I could fly far away and be at peace. I would go and live in some distant desert. I would quickly find shelter from howling winds and raging storms. Psalm 55:6-8 CEV

God has enabled us with our five senses and the “Fight or Flight” response to avoid a dangerous situation. The instinct of fear becomes apparent in babies at the ages of 7-10 months where they react by crying or refusing to interact with strangers-unfamiliar adults. As we advance in our lives, we usually base our fears on learned behaviors as opposed to actual experience–which can be unfounded–and lead to phobias, and biases toward others.

Although we are equipped to avoid most physical threats leading to harm, we are unable to avoid the events that hurt us emotionally. Separation from death, divorce, loss of family ties and friendships have a profound impact on us. We experience so much hurt and distress in our lives that we may feel like King David expressed, “I wish I could fly away and be at peace.”

During his reign, David was surrounded by enemies which resulted in separation and isolation from others. In Psalm 55, the betrayal came from his closest friend in whom he trusted the most (v. 13).

My friend turned against me and broke his promise. His words were smoother than butter and softer than olive oil. But hatred filled his heart, and he was ready to attack with a sword. Psalm 55:20-21 CEV

It is apparent that David had a loving and compassionate heart; remember he was a shepherd who cared for and protected his flock of sheep.

We are born with and have been gifted with the ability to love God, ourselves, and others. We were lovingly, fearfully, and wonderfully created in the image of God, which makes it evident that God is LOVE.

It is not possible for us to avoid emotional pain; suffering is part of the plan of salvation. No one is spared, not even Jesus who is God’s only begotten Son. Jesus experienced betrayal from Judas his disciple, He suffered, bled, and died on a cross which was utilized for the vilest of criminals; yet we can still possess hope, and peace that God knows, He cares, and He will take care of us.

For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16

Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Matthew 6:26 NLT

For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 BSB

Let not your heart be troubled; you believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:1-4

For the Lord, himself will come down from heaven with a commanding shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trumpet call of God. First, the Believers who have died will rise from their graves. 1 Thessalonians 4:16 NLT

Blessed are those who wash their robes. They will be permitted to enter through the gates of the city and eat the fruit from the Tree of Life. Revelation 22:14 NLT

He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, “Yes, I am coming soon! Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! Revelation 22:20 NLT

Always believe that we have a Heavenly Father, who has made the precious promise that He has a wonderful reward for those that suffer in His name: Eternal life!

Prayer for today: Dear God, Life is full of many hurts and we easily forget your promises when we are drowning in our earthly sorrows. Please help us to turn our eyes from the things of this earth and remember that you love us with an everlasting love. Through our tears may we continue to believe and receive your comfort as only you can provide. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2019

Financial Stewardship

Wait patiently for the LORD. Be brave and courageous. Yes, wait patiently for the LORD. Psalm 27:14 NLT

Have you ever felt pressured into making an immediate decision? Most of us have been presented with “good deals” that end in a few hours or within 24 hours, and if we do not want to miss out, we must take action now.

Recently, I received a notice that the promotional price on my cable-internet bundle package was ending in 30 days. Immediately I questioned the validity of the notification; 12 months ago, I recall receiving the letter from the cable provider that for a 24 month period they would offer the lowest prices plus a gift card if I committed to the terms of the contract. After reviewing the hard copy contract, I realized that I agreed to pay regular prices after a year; however, I was still legally obligated for another 12 months to keep the services or pay an early termination fee.

The first action was to reflect: What were the factors that influenced me to agree to this good deal?

Dissatisfaction with the previous cable provider along with a promotional price for two services that were less than what I was currently paying for one service easily enabled me to make an immediate decision. In addition, I did not explore the options of good deals from other cable providers. I received a promotional via mail and from the convenience of simply dialing a number, I signed up for the opportunity to enjoy a competitively priced package–which expired within 24 hours–insufficient time to read the small print.

There are very few circumstances that require an immediate answer, and most that involve our finances do not!

1. Always pray for guidance-if it is meant for you then God will not withhold your blessings.
2. Take the time to research all aspects of new opportunities or better options-all that glitters is not gold.
3. Learn to say “No, thank you.”
4. Calculate all monthly payments from an annual perspective; an extra $40 per month adds up to $480 per year with the possibility of additional interest or other charges.

Remember that instant gratification subtracts from your financial resources, and usually results in negative outcomes.

Prayer for today: Dear God, We seek knowledge and ask for wisdom that our decisions will be based on our needs and not our desires. We ask you to help us to break the cycle of inappropriate spending habits. We ask you to help us to listen and when you say not now to be obedient. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2019

Oh God, you are my God; I earnestly search for you. My soul thirsts for you; my whole body longs for you in this parched and weary land where there is no water. Psalm 63:1 NLT

Recently we traveled from Texas to New Mexico; riding hundreds of miles through the unpopulated, and arid desert. The only movement was an occasional tumbleweed that would briskly roll across the road or the blinding sandstorm that we watched from afar. And yes, I quickly prayed away the thought of having car problems in such an environment.

Although one would expect minimal signs of plant life, there are various types of plants and small trees in the parched desert of New Mexico. It is their structure that enables them to remain alive. The vegetation is short with thick trunks and branches which allows for the growth of deep and expansive roots that are sustained from the earth’s reservoir of water beneath the surface.

Spiritually, our life is comparable to living in the desert. Every day we face problems that either impact us, our family or close friends. How we choose to resolve those issues will either result in our faith dwindling away or flourishing with new growth.

When we fail to have a close relationship with God, we begin to dry up and wither. Instead of possessing the deep roots that keep us steadfast and connected to the well of living water, we become as the tumbleweed that is guided by the wind, rolling to unknown destinations.

God created us with the thirst for His water; even so, it is a free-will decision to drink from His well.

“But whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” John 4:14 NIV

Remember that God has provided for our every need; His resources are abundant and He has promised to sustain us through every trial and tribulation.

Jesus answered, “If you only knew what God gives and who it is that is asking you for a drink, you would ask him, and he would give you life-giving water.” John 4:10 GNT

Read: John 4:1-42

Prayer for today: Dear God, Our souls thirst for your living water. We have tried to live without you and have become tumbleweeds without purpose. Please forgive us for our attitudes of self-sufficiency. We are parched and now we are ready to accept your gift by drinking from your well of living water. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayer. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7 NLT

If I only had the opportunity to share one life-changer, it would be to always pray. When we establish an ongoing relationship with God through prayer, we come to fully know who God is, and we are fortified with strength from His power.

When you desire change regarding a seemingly impossible situation; then you must pray, thank God for his divine intervention, wait, and exercise faith in knowing that He will work it out according to His will.

Prayer for today: Dear God, We strive for change; change from our past behaviors of neglecting our relationship with you. It is a privilege to be able to speak with you any moment of the day or night. “Who is man that you are mindful of him?” We say, “thank you” for your love, your mercy, and your grace. As we move forward in our commitment to serve you, help us to become as little children who are totally dependent. We place our lives in your hands. Thank you for hearing and answering our prayers. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Sonya Johnson Ruiz

If I had a choice

I would rather be on the other side of the mountain

For I have struggled to climb to the top many times

Only to plunge to the bottom where the same misery and heartache eagerly waited

Although I knew it was dangerous, I decided that I could climb without the safety rope of loving myself

Again, I’m at the foot of the mountain looking up

The climb is steep, but I see the top, and I know that I will do it this time because the journey is familiar

And my safety rope is intact-I love me!

Not saying that I won’t slip or fall

But plunging to rock bottom is no longer an option

I’m climbing, I feel the difference

I made it to the top!

I do have a choice, and from now on, I will face my challenges with the strength of an Overcomer

Cause it’s awesome to be on the other side of the mountain

© Sonya Johnson Ruiz 2019

It has been many years since I penned my book of romantic poetry: Canciones de Amor/Songs of Love.

The Other Side is a poetic expression of the continuous cycle of struggle to victory.

I was reflecting on the challenges that we face as women; mainly from the lack of support and appreciation from family, friends, spouses, co-workers, and others. There are times when our fragile hearts are broken, and we struggle just to place our feet on the floor. There are times when the loneliness is overwhelming, because we are invisible to those who surround us.

Be warned, there is danger ahead! We cannot allow our hearts to become hardened with bitterness and resentment. We must rescue ourselves from falling deeper into the abyss by empowering ourselves with self-love.

We must affirm that we are fearfully and wonderfully made in the image of God. We must learn to lovingly embrace our innermost being by putting on our safety ropes and with courage climb those mountains.

There is victory on the other side of the mountain!

Sonya Johnson Ruiz