A PERFECT COMPANION DOES NOT GUARANTEE SATISFACTION - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XXII

Sometimes in relationships things don't always go very well. Most of us who have had any experience in this area know that this is an understatement. Often, because of the disillusionment and disappointment with the present circumstances of a relationship, people are tempted to believe that if only their husband or wife or boyfriend or girlfriend were more attractive or more intelligent or just much better, everything would be alright. This is not necessarily true. For if it were possible to unite us with the person whom we believe to be everything that we are looking for, it would not take very long for us to discover that we may not be all that we thought we were. Often we think better circumstances or better people would make our lives much better when in actuality, there is something in us that could work against our "perfect relationship." When we say perfect, we are speaking about someone who says and does the right things at the right times. Would a perfect boyfriend or girlfriend or perfect husband or wife make us happy ? This is what we will look at in this week's post...

A PERFECT COMPANION DOES NOT GUARANTEE SATISFACTION

Eve had a perfect home and a perfect husband who had pure affections, perfect thoughts and control of his appetites and passions. Yet, Eve was not satisfied.

What can we learn from this ?

Our happiness comes not from what is around us, but from what is within us; not from what we have, but from what we are.

It's not what's around us or what we have that is the source of true happiness. Happiness depends upon what are and what we have within us. Apart from Christ, all that we have is self and self can never be satisfied and self will never keep a person happy.

Adam was a perfect type of man. Every quality of mind was well proportioned, each having a distinctive office, and yet dependent one upon another for the full and proper use of any one of them. As Adam came forth from the hand of his Creator, he was of noble height, and of beautiful symmetry. He was more than twice as tall as men now living upon the earth, and was well proportioned. His features were perfect and beautiful. Adam was in the perfection of manhood--the noblest of the Creator's works. He was in the image of God, but a little lower than the angels. (James 3:2/1 John 4:18,12/Psalms 37:37/Matthew 5:48/Hebrews 2:7/Genesis 1:31,6:4)

Man came from the hand of God perfect in organization and beautiful in form. All his faculties of mind and body were fully developed and harmoniously balanced. His nature was in harmony with the will of God. His affections were pure; his appetites and passions were under the control of reason. Before his fall Adam was free from the results of the curse. When he was assailed by the tempter, none of the effects of sin were upon him. He was created perfect in thought and in action. (Proverbs 12:5,16:3/Galatians 5:22,23/Matthew 5:5,8)

Eve had all that her wants required. There was nothing lacking to make her happy, but intemperate appetite desired the fruit of the only tree that God had withheld. She had no need of the fruit of the tree of knowledge, but she permitted her appetite and curiosity to control her reason. She was perfectly happy in her Eden home by her husband's side; but, like restless modern Eves, she was flattered that there was a higher sphere than that which God had assigned her. Eve had everything to make her happy. She was surrounded by fruit of every variety. Yet the fruit of the forbidden tree appeared more desirable to her than the fruit of all the other trees in the garden of which she could freely eat. She was intemperate in her desires. (Genesis 2:8-16/Proverbs 10:22/Hebrews 13:5)

According to the Bible, Eve was overcome through her senses. And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat. (Genesis 3:6) Eve heard the voice of the serpent, saw, touched and tasted the fruit and more than likely smelled it.

For the sake of gratifying the taste, Eve transgressed the command of God. He had given her everything her wants required, yet she was not satisfied. Ever since, her fallen sons and daughters have followed the desires of their eyes and of their taste. Eve was beguiled by the serpent to believe that God would not do as He said He would. "Ye shall not surely die," said the serpent. Eve ate and imagined that she felt the sensations of a new and more exalted life. She bore the fruit to her husband, and that which had an overpowering influence upon him was her experience. (Genesis 3:13/Ecclesiastes 1:16/2 Corinthians 11:3) (Human experiences which rely upon senses alone are not always safe or adequate guides for making decisions)

The serpent had said that she should not die, and she felt no ill effects from the fruit, nothing which could be interpreted to mean death, but, just as the serpent had said, a pleasurable sensation which she imagined was as the angels felt. Her experience stood arrayed against the positive command of Jehovah, and Adam permitted himself to be seduced by the experience of his wife. (Genesis 3:6,17/1 Timothy 2:14)

Adam and Eve were a perfect couple who had everything they needed to be happy. It is highly unlikely that a loving God did not supply all that was necessary for their pleasure and enjoyment. There was no emotional insecurity or lack of human love and intimacy. Material, intellectual, physical, emotional and all needs were met. Yet, they were offered and accepted a false experience being deceived thereby with the promise of a better life than the one they were experiencing. There is a such thing as a right experience and a wrong experience and depending upon which one is cultivated, the character is shaped for eternal life or eternal death.

Having all that we humanly need or all that we humanly desire will never satisfy us unless Christ is supreme in our affections and the chief cornerstone of our character purifying all our desires.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.

Have a wonderful evening.

You have just been reading from page 24 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

BEING LOVELY AND LOVING WITHOUT RECEIVING HUMAN LOVE - THIS WILL BE HARD WITHOUT CHRIST - Marriage Counseling With the Wonderful Counselor - Part XXI

Can you do this ? Can anyone do this ? It may be hard but it is not impossible. We're talking about loving someone and being a lovely person without receiving human love in return. Well, why would I want to do that you might ask. For one thing the best experience of love is in giving it not receiving it. Receiving love and being appreciated is certainly good and more in harmony with our human nature. However, the purer, better and more fulfilling love is experienced by giving it and it is this kind of love that is most needed in all relationships; especially marriage. It all boils down to you being the beautiful person that God created you to be regardless of how anyone treats you. That is called Christ-likeness and it requires the grace of God.

BEING LOVELY AND LOVING WITHOUT RECEIVING HUMAN LOVE

The husband or the wife can be loving even if one of them does not receive human love from the other. This can only happen by the grace of God and His love being shed abroad in the heart.

Those who enter the marriage relation while unconverted should not after conversion leave their unbelieving companions. Whatever their religious character may be, they must remain faithful, kind, and true toward them; yet they should acknowledge the claims of God above any earthly relationship, serving him with fidelity, even though inconvenience, trials, and persecutions may arise for the sake of Christ and the truth. This persevering fidelity to truth and duty may be a sanctifying influence upon the unbelieving companion. Even sinners whose hearts are not utterly closed to God's Spirit will respond to kindness; while they may give hate for hate, they will also give love for love. But it is only the Spirit of God that gives love for hatred. To be kind to the unthankful and to the evil, to do good hoping for nothing again, is the insignia of the royalty of heaven, the sure token by which the children of the Highest reveal their high estate. (1 Corinthians 7:10-16/Luke 6:32-35)

In the character of Abigail, the wife of Nabal, we have an illustration of womanhood after the order of Christ; while her husband illustrates what a man may become who yields himself to the control of Satan. Nabal was like the rich man in the parable. He had only one thought,--to use God's merciful gifts to gratify his selfish animal appetites. He had no thought of gratitude to the giver. He was not rich toward God; for eternal treasure had no attraction for him. (1 Samuel 25:36/Romans 8:5/Galatians 5:19-21)

Nabal was naturally unreasonable and abusive, and when aroused he knew not what he said or did. The piety of Abigail, like the fragrance of a flower, breathed out all unconsciously in face and word and action. The Spirit of the Son of God was abiding in her soul. Her heart was full of purity, gentleness, and sanctified love. Her speech, seasoned with grace, and full of kindness and peace, shed a heavenly influence. Kind words make the life beautiful and noble; for in them is the spirit that pervades heaven. (1 Samuel 25:3,10,1126,28,30/Galatians 5:22,23)

Nabal had scornfully inquired, "Who is David?" but Abigail called him, "My Lord." With kind words she sought to soothe his irritated feelings. She did not reproach him for his hasty action, for she felt assured that a little time and reflection would work a change in his purpose, and that his conscience itself would condemn the violent measure which he was about to take. She pleaded with David in behalf of her husband. (1 Samuel 25:24)

With utter unselfishness of spirit, she desired him to impute the whole blame of the matter to her, and not to charge it to her poor, deluded husband, who knew not what was for his own good or happiness. What a spirit is this ! With nothing of ostentation or pride, but full of the wisdom and love of God, Abigail revealed the strength of her devotion to her household. Whatever was her husband's disposition, he was her husband still, and she made it plain to the indignant captain that the unkind course of her husband was in nowise premeditated against him as a personal affront; but it was simply the outburst of an unhappy and selfish nature. (1 Samuel 25:24,25,28,31,10,11)

Abigail was a loving and lovely person without love from her husband. Is it possible for a human being to be like Abigail ? There are many more examples like this that could be cited but the greatest example is seen in the person of Jesus Christ. By the enabling grace of God, any person can become Christ-like in character and give love even if he or she does not receive it.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.

Have a wonderful weekend.

You have just been reading from page 23 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

HIGHER EDUCATION - A MASTER'S DEGREE IN RELATIONSHIPS - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XX

ADDITIONAL COUNSEL FOR BOTH HUSBAND & WIFE

This also cometh forth from the LORD of hosts, which is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.

(ISAIAH 28:29)

Someone has said that if we stop learning then we stop living. To gain an education that makes one a better person is certainly a noble goal. Better person according to the world's standards, however, may often refer to a person's monetary value rather than his or her moral worth. The education that teaches a person how to give the most and how to be the best in a relationship is priceless. This is the kind of instruction that God wants everyone to have. In this post we will visit one of the classes being taught in the school of marriage and take good notes.

MARRIAGE IS A SCHOOL

School - a place of education or collection of pupils of any kind; any place of improvement or learning. (American Dictionary of the English Language)

Marriage is certainly a place of learning and a place of potential growth and improvement. Notice what is to be the study in the school of marriage for the students who are enrolled.

To gain a proper understanding of the marriage relation is the work of a lifetime. Those who marry enter a school from which they are never in this life to be graduated. It should henceforth be the life study of both husband and wife how to avoid everything that creates contention and to keep unbroken the marriage vows.

It is the duty of every married couple to studiously avoid marring the feelings of each other. They should control every look and expression of fretfulness and passion. They should study each other's happiness, in small matters, as well as in large, manifesting a tender thoughtfulness, in acknowledging kind acts and the little courtesies of each other. These small things should not be neglected, for they are just as important to the happiness of man and wife, as food is necessary to sustain physical strength.

Study to advance the happiness of each other.

The word study means to fix the mind closely upon a subject; to apply the mind to; to dwell upon in thought. (American Dictionary of the English Language)

In summary, here is what marriage students need to study...

1. how to avoid everything that creates contention

2. how to keep unbroken the marriage vows

3. each other’s happiness

(Proverbs 24:3, 17:14, 13:10, 1:5, 9:9, 16:21,23/Psalms 101:3/1 Corinthians 7:3/Ephesians 4:32/1 Timothy 6:8/Philippians 2:3/Exodus 20:13,14/Deuteronomy 6:6,7, 11:19/Amos 3:3/John 13:17)

The world generally and somewhat ignorantly teaches people how to fight fair or disagree and argue successfully. It is believed that contention is inevitable and some say that adultery is not so bad. One's personal happiness is often considered the priority which should guide decisions regarding the relationship. On the other hand, God teaches that it is best to avoid contentions altogether and He shows us how to do it. In connection with Christ, both the husband and wife may receive enabling grace to resist and overcome all selfish tendencies that threaten to destroy marriage. While it is true that these lessons are not generally taught in the world, if husbands and wives actually study and apply the principles of these subjects, they will be prepared to pass the test of finances, the test of fading outward beauty, the feelings and emotions test, and any of life’s other physical, mental or spiritual tests.

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post.

Have a triumphant day in Christ.

You have just been reading from page 22 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

A BEAUTIFUL WOMAN - A BEAUTIFUL WIFE - ONLY BY THE GRACE OF GOD - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XIX

Most of us who have ever been in a love relationship with someone will have to admit that we did not attend any special classes that taught us how to make these experiences a happy success. We basically decide based upon what feels right or what we think may be best for us. Personality alone won't hold a relationship together. There are character qualities needed by both the man and the woman if there is any hope for something more than a temporary pleasant distraction on life's highway. In this post we consider the last 3 keys to a husband's/man's heart and how to win him and keep him.

10. A SUBMISSIVE WIFE

It is the duty of the wife to yield her wishes and will to her husband. Both should be yielding, but the Word of God gives preference to the judgment of the husband.

Give up your own ideas and your own wishes if by so doing you can help him. Thus you will be blessed. Do not persist in having your own way when you know that this afflicts him. The requirements of the husband may sometimes seem unreasonable to the wife, when if she should calmly, candidly take the second view of the matter, in as favorable a light for him as possible, she would see that to yield her own way and submit to his judgment, even if it conflicted with her feelings, would save them both from unhappiness and would give them great victory over the temptations of the enemy.

This helps him to develop humility as he beholds it in his wife. It is a law of the human mind that by beholding we become changed. When the Spirit of Christ controls the husband, the wife's subjection will only result in rest and benefit, for he will require from her only that which will result in good, and in the same way that Christ requires submission from the church.

A husband needs a submissive wife and a limit to that submission. God requires that the wife shall keep the fear and glory of God ever before her. Entire submission is to be made only to the Lord Jesus Christ, who has purchased her as His own child by the infinite price of His life... There is One who stands higher than the husband to the wife; it is her Redeemer, and her submission to her husband is to be rendered as God has directed--"as it is fit in the Lord." (Colossians 3:18) (Ephesians 5:22/Titus 2:3,4)

11. A VIRTUOUS WOMAN - Virtuous - morally good (ADEL)

A virtuous woman is a crown to her husband: but she that maketh ashamed is as rottenness in his bones. (Proverbs 12:4) A virtuous woman does not make her husband ashamed of her conduct when they are alone together, together with others or when she is not by his side.

Virtue of character depends upon the right action of the powers of the mind and body. Who can find a virtuous woman ? for her price is far above rubies. The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. (Proverbs 31:10-12)

12. A TRUE, UNSELFISH WOMAN

No other influence that can surround the human soul has such power as the influence of an unselfish life. In the companionship of a true, unselfish woman, the husband finds peace and happiness, forgetting the cares of the world. In order to be happy ourselves, we must live to make others happy. If the mind is free and happy, from a consciousness of right-doing and a sense of satisfaction in causing happiness to others, it creates a cheerfulness that will react upon the whole system, causing a freer circulation of the blood, and a toning up of the entire body. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. A merry (rejoicing) heart doeth good like a medicine. (Proverbs 17:22,31:30,15:13/1 Samuel 25:3/John 6:53,54,16:33/Hebrews 9:14/)

It is selfish to devote our precious time to mourning over disappointed hopes, indulging a useless grief that clouds the family circle. Undue grief is displeasing to God. Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death. It is the worst phase of selfishness to fret and censure and complain because you have the power to do this and those whom you abuse in this way cannot prevent you. Self-pity is deteriorating to the characters of those who cherish it, and it exerts an influence that spoils the happiness of others. If the wife is selfish, lacking in womanly traits, neither amiable nor self-denying, may the Lord help them: for life will be a woeful disappointment. (Proverbs 27:15,25:24,21:9,7:11/Psalms 73:21/Matthew 26:38/Ecclesiastes 2:17)

EXCELLENCE OF CHARACTER IN A WOMAN

All that makes men manly, or women womanly, is reflected from the character of Christ. This is because true manliness and true womanliness include character qualities and is not just defined by gender. Woman, if she wisely improves her time and her faculties, relying upon God for wisdom and strength, may stand on an equality with her husband as adviser, counselor, companion, and coworker, and yet lose none of her womanly grace or modesty. She may elevate her own character, and just as she does this she is elevating and ennobling the characters of her family and exerting a powerful though unconscious influence upon others around her.- Every woman should develop a well-balanced mind and a pure character, reflecting only the true, the good, and the beautiful.

Woman does not know her power. God did not intend that her capabilities should be all absorbed in questioning: What shall I eat ? what shall I drink ? and wherewithal shall I be clothed ? There is a higher purpose for woman, a grander destiny. She should develop and cultivate her powers, for God can employ them in the great work of saving souls from eternal ruin. Woman's heart is full of patience and love if that woman has surrendered her heart to God.

The Lord would have woman seek constantly to improve both in mind and heart, gaining intellectual and moral strength that she may lead a useful and happy life,--a blessing to the world and an honor to her Creator. Daughters of the heavenly King, members of the royal family, will feel a burden of responsibility to attain to a higher life, that they may be brought into close connection with heaven and work in unison with the Redeemer of the world. (Revelation 12:1/Ruth 3:11/Psalms 144;12/Galatians 3:28/Proverbs 4:18,31:29/2 John 1:5/Philippians 3:14/Deuteronomy 18:13/Matthew 5:48/Romans 12:2)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

You have just been reading from pages 20 and 21 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

OBESITY - WEIGHT GAIN AND EXTRA POUNDS BEAT DOWN BY HEALTH LAWS - HEALTH INSTEAD OF DISEASE SERIES #7

Losing weight is a challenge for many and has even become the theme of a popular T.V. reality show. The show emphasizes one of the laws of health and its contestants do actually lose weight. While many have been helped and are being helped by the program, there is no substitute for the 8 laws of health. Fat ordinarily accounts for about 10 to 20 percent of the weight of an adult male, and about 25 percent of the weight of a female. Anymore than this is unnecessary and unhealthy. Ideally, your weight should remain roughly constant after the age of 25. Most people do gain a little as they grow older, and reach their heaviest weight at about 50, but there is no obvious physiological reason for this. It is usually due to a combination of a less active lifestyle and an over adequate diet.In order for weight management to be effective and long lasting, he or she must commit to a lifestyle change not simply a diet modification program. That person's present lifestyle habits prove that business as usual will not work. Appetite is given to us by a loving Creator to help us to enjoy the food which we must have. The basic need of the person, however, is not the enjoyment of food, but the need is for nutrients. Thoughts of food should not fill the mind. We should eat to live not live to eat.

As in the case with any physical conditions that result from a violation of the laws of health, there are 3 basic steps to take for weight loss.

1. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained.

2. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected.

3. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to reestablish right conditions in the system.

1. ASCERTAIN THE CAUSE

Americans generally do not feel the need to deny themselves of anything the heart desires. Overeating, hasty eating, eating between meals, eating heavy at night before going to bed. Some grow corpulent because the system is clogged; others become thin and feeble because their vital powers are exhausted in disposing of an excess of food. The liver is burdened in its effort to cleanse the blood of impurities, and illness is the result. High calorie, low nutrition fats, sugars, and low quality proteins. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Possible chemical deficiencies and/or imbalances, stress, trauma, tension or hormonal imbalances. Thyroid malfunction. Digestive enzyme deficiency. Emotional issues - Discouragement, darkness or despair. Medicating depression or emptiness with food. Using food as a coping mechanism. Rewarding self or tranquilizing pain. (Most of the above are the result of violations of the 8 laws of health, learn them - http://www.issues-of-life.com/8%20LAWS%20OF%20HEALTH.html)

Possible violations of one or more or all 8 of the basic laws of the mind - primarily >

Beholding - It is by fastening our eyes on the difficulties and shrinking from earnest battle for the right, that we.become weak and faithless. (Wrong discouraging focus on problems and challenges)

Mental Activity - Flattery and the artificial, without an object or aim--nothing substantial to satisfy the mind and strengthen principle - leave empty nothingness. (Superficial and meaningless or purposeless living; unprincipled living)

Physical Relation - If the mind is permitted to be clouded with grief, the food is not digested and as a result the system is not well nourished. A contented mind, a cheerful spirit, is health to the body and strength to the soul. Nothing is so fruitful a cause of disease as depression, gloominess, and sadness. Mental depression is terrible. (Emotional self-medication)

Thoughts - When the will is dormant, the imagination becomes abnormal, and it is impossible to resist disease. (Neglect to make decisions or be decisive on the side of right; not exercising the will on the side of right)

Expression - The natural mind leans toward pleasure and self-gratification. (Understand yourself. We are naturally inclined toward pleasing ourselves and gratifying our desires)

2. CORRECT WRONG HABITS - CHANGE UNHEALTHFUL CONDITIONS

Learn the 8 laws of health and bring your life into harmony with them. You will learn when to eat, what to eat and how often. Obedience to the 8 laws of health will definitely help you to lose any extra pounds and help you to maintain your proper body weight throughout your life. Learn the basic 8 laws of the mind and bring your mind into harmony with them. Sadness or discouragement or depression often lead to self-medication with food or other self pampering habits.

Avoid all hydrogenated oils, margarine, shortening, greases, and fried foods. Omit all animal products meat, milk, cheese, eggs, butter, yogurt, ice cream. Eliminate meats such as pork, ham, bacon, sausage, hot dogs, hamburger, canned meat spreads, pressed meats, and canned composite meats such as Spam. Cholesterol is only present in animal products. Go vegan and help yourself by obtaining vegan cookbooks and videos. Flesh foods pervert the taste and for some it may take a little time to overcome the craving for meat. Do not use refined white bread or crackers, white pasta foods, white rice, or any other refined grain products. Never use soft drinks, coffees, teas, medicines, chocolate. May use non-caffeinated herb teas and cereal beverages. Cakes, cookies, ice creams and puddings are unhealthful when made with baking soda or powder, eggs, milk, shortening, hydrogenated oils, artificial flavorings and colorings and sugar. Use sea salt instead of regular table salt if salt is used at all. Avoid high fructose corn syrups and other refined or artificial sweeteners. Read labels more carefully.

Overcome constipation. If you eat 2 meals per day - you should have at least 2 bowel movements per day. Anything less is constipation. Increase fiber and water intake. Fiber is very important for helping curb the appetite. Whole foods with fiber leave you feeling satisfied after you have eaten. Water is also very important for losing weight because if you don't drink enough, your body will hold onto water in an to counteract dehydration. This adds to your weight. Get plenty of exercise. Exercise can help significantly reduce your weight and improve your overall health and is very important for losing weight. Recent studies show that walking is the best exercise. You don't need to kill yourself but you do need consistency. Do it everyday. Filter your mental food with Philippians 4:8. Avoid music and leisure time activity that is not uplifting or that does not elevate your thoughts and tend toward the development of a Christlike character.

Don't dwell upon negative or sad themes or words in books or via any other media form. (Radio, t.v., movies, etc.) Choose cheering, uplifting words to speak and avoid disagreements. Be patient or become one. Don't try to be a god. Acknowledge your imperfections but never undervalue yourself. Proper self-estimation is found in Christ.

Laws of the mind which will help -

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are] lovely , whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

(Philippians 4:8)

1. When the mind is free and happy from a sense of duty well done and the satisfaction of giving happiness to others, the cheering, uplifting influence brings new life to the whole being. -(cheering others and making them happy in the way that God approves of)

2. The mind which is occupied with exalted themes becomes itself ennobled. - preoccupation with uplifting themes (Christ, heaven, eternity, moral excellence, immortality)

3. Feelings for others' woes will divert the mind from repining, and lead to the forgetfulness of real suffering. - (sympathizing with others)

4. That which at first seems difficult, by constant repetition grows easy, until right thoughts and actions become habitual. (start somewhere and keep making efforts everyday and it will get easier)

5. If the thoughts are rightly disciplined, it will be a far less difficult task to control the feelings. -(control the thoughts)

3. ASSIST THE BODY TO HEAL ITSELF

Try 2 meals per day with no snacks in between. 5-6 hours between meals and the heaviest meal in the morning or early part of the day. Eat a generous breakfast; steamed vegetables, large raw salad - olives and light salad dressing.

Not one bite between meals. This is a principle of life. (Five hours between meals).

Eat a moderate dinner4-5 hours well before going to bed.

Do light exercise after meals to promote digestion. Never lie down after meals.

1-5 hours of daily moderate exercise. Moderate to heavy exercise suppresses appetite. Change leisure activities and scenery.

Avoid irritants and artificial stimulants. Anything that irritates the stomach or the nervous system acts as a stimulant to the appetite - vinegar, mayonnaise, mustard, caffeine, alcohol, baking soda, baking powder, and spices (black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, ginger).

Have your thyroid gland checked.

Do not overeat, eat fast or eat when sad.

Exercise as much as possible: Walking, room exercise, bike riding if possible.

Low calorie diet with emphasis on juices: vegetable and fruit, raw vegetables and fruits.

Low protein diet. (no animal source proteins)

Eat 6 almonds daily. (Add to a vegetable meal when not eating meat substitute)

Two quarts of water daily. (Not flouridated water or colored water)

Helpful herbal teas

Mix: 2 Tbs. Chickweed

1 Tbs. Irish Moss
1 Tbs. Sassafras

Place 2 Tbs. in 10 ounces of water. Mix and drink 3 times daily

Bladderwrack tea is a very good healer of obesity. Make tea (one tablespoon of herb to one cup water).

JUICES TO DRINK

page115

Carrot juice or green drink

Grapefruit juice is very good. Make this a part of the juice program.

Papaya juice is good.

CLEANSERS

If you've tried everything and still can't lose weight then there may be a problem with the liver. Liver damage is common among overweight persons. Cleansing combination for liver damage is Milk Thistle, Alfalfa and Dandelion tea.

Try a Ten-day juice program: 6 ounces of juice every 2 hours.

Herbs: Chickweed, Burdock

A good multivitamin/mineral supplement - non-animal source (should have calcium, phosphorus, iron and iodine)

Niacin
Kelp
Vitamin B-6
Calcium 2000 mg. daily
Magnesium 500 mg. 2 times daily
Lecithin 1 tsp. 2 times daily
Vitamin B complex

Amino Acids - Phenylalanine (appetite control) Leucine (regulates digestion and metabolism)

Drink plenty of water.

• initial weight loss is mostly loss of water, and you need to drink an adequate amount of water in order to avoid dehydration; dehydration slows down the fat-burning process. Dehydration causes a reduction in blood volume; a reduction in blood volume causes a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles; and a reduction in the supply of oxygen to your muscles can make you feel tired.
• Burning calories creates toxins (like exhaust coming out of your car), and water plays a vital role in flushing them out of your body.
• A healthy (weight loss) diet includes a good amount of fiber. But while fiber is normally helpful to your digestive system, without adequate fluids it can cause constipation instead of helping to eliminate it.

Pray and ask God to change your heart and then for strength and grace to change your lifestyle

CHALLENGE - Try obedience to the 8 laws of health and any of the above for 10 days and see and feel the results.

The use of herbs should complement obedience to the 8 laws of health. More information about this at www.issues-of-life.com under health issues.

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome. Read the full disclaimer for health issues at www.issues-of-life.com

© 2010 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com

ONLY GOD CAN TAKE A GOOD WOMAN AND MAKE HER AN EXCELLENT WIFE - Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful Counselor - Part XVIII

What are the character qualities needed by a woman to win and keep a good man or husband ? Is she supposed to be sweet or is she supposed to be sassy ? Dill pickle or honeydew or salsa ? Movies and television shows do not often give a very accurate picture of the kind of woman that it takes to make a good wife. It is very encouraging to know, however, that there is a Voice distinguished from all other voices seeking to guide us through this life. That Voice brings to us the accumulated wisdom of eternal ages and proceeds from a heart of unchangeable love. God Himself is the originator of marriage and He has not ceased to be deeply interested in what happens in this relationship. In this post we continue to look at the 12 keys to the husband's/man's heart; specifically keys 8 and 9.

8. A WIFE WHO IS A BLESSING; WHO IS ATTENTIVE, HELPFUL AND HEALTHFUL

Make yourself a necessity to your husband by being attentive and helpful. Be a blessing to him in everything. God made from man a woman, to be a companion and helpmeet for him, to be one with him, to cheer, encourage, and bless him. for a cheerful heart vitalizes, and imparts health to the entire system. It is our duty to make the best of everything, and to cultivate a habit of looking at the bright side of things.

While cheerfulness and a calm resignation and peace will make others happy and healthy, it will be of the greatest benefit to oneself. When suffering the results of ill health, it is not an easy matter to be patient and cheerful, or to act with integrity and justice. Health is essential, not only to our own happiness, but to the happiness, of those with whom we associate. So closely is health related to our happiness that we cannot have the latter without the former. Health, life, and happiness are the result of obedience to physical laws governing our bodies. (Proverbs 15:13,15,17:22,12:4,18:22,31:12/Genesis 2:18/Job 17:9/Isaiah 35:3/Mark 12:30/Exodus 15:26/Deuteronomy 7:11,15/Acts27:22,25,36/Ecclesisastes 4:10,11)

9. A COMPANION WHO IS CAREFUL OF HER WORDS AND CAN CONTROL HER SPIRIT

The wife, if she has the spirit of Christ, will be careful of her words; she will control her spirit, she will be submissive, and yet will not feel that she is a bondslave, but a companion to her husband. She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness. Any unpleasant spirit displayed is sure to arouse the demon of passion in unguarded hearts. Unholy anger need not to be strengthened, but bridled. It is a spark which will set on fire untamed human nature. The speaking of an angry word is like flint striking flint: it at once kindles wrathful feelings.

Every one of these exhibitions of wrath weakens the nervous system and the moral powers and makes it difficult to restrain anger on another provocation. Hard words beat upon the heart, awaking to life its worst passions. The giving way to violent emotions endangers life. Many die under a burst of rage and passion. To subdue self, and bring the passions under the control of the will, is the greatest conquest that men and women can achieve.

The looks and tones of the voice should be modulated by thoughtful consideration and tender, respectful love. The tones of the voice have much to do in affecting the hearts of those that hear. The looks, the tone of the voice, the actions,--all have their influence in making or marring the happiness of the domestic circle. (Ecclesiastes 7:9/Ephesians 4:26/ Proverbs 12:18,16:24,18:19,22:24,25,31:12,26,29:22,21:19/John 15:13/Matthew 18:7/James 3:2/2 Corinthians 6:3/Acts 24:16)

By the grace of God, we will continue this study in another post. Have a wonderful weekend.

You have just been reading from page 19 of a booklet entitled, "Marriage Counseling With The Wonderful COUNSELOR" Look for more pages from this booklet in future blog posts... If you are interested in having the entire book email your request to education@issues-of-life.com. You can see what the cover looks like at www.issues-of-life.com and by clicking on products.

DEPRESSION IS DEPRESSING - BELIEF IN GOD IS ANTI-DEPRESSANT - Health Instead of Disease Series #6

In a recent news release, it was reported that studies have shown that "belief in God relieves depression. This may not be news for Christians but it is news for those who have depended solely upon prescription medicines and clinical treatments for dealing with depression. Is society on the verge of recognizing the significance of the Creator's role in human life ? May be not just yet, but we can certainly hope that we are at least moving away from a futile inward search for a solution to many of our heart and head issues. What is depression ? Are there ways of treating it that are more in harmony with the laws of health and the laws of the mind ? Let's explore a few of the answers to these questions.

Depression is defined by a standard set of symptoms described in the American Psychiatric Associations Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. They are:

o poor appetite and significant weight loss, or increased appetite and significant weight gain;

o insomnia, or increased sleep;

o agitation, or retardation, of movement and thought;

o loss of interest or pleasure in usual activities or decrease in sexual drive;

o fatigue and loss of energy;

o feelings of worthlessness, self-reproach, or excessive or inappropriate guilt;

o diminished ability to think or concentrate, or indecisiveness;

o recurrent thoughts of death or suicide, or suicide attempts.

For purposes of psychiatric treatment, a person is considered to have experienced a major depressive episode if he or she exhibits a loss of interest or pleasure in all or almost all usual activities and shows at least four of the above symptoms nearly every day for a period of at least two weeks.

The most common type of treatment involves the use of drug medication. Two major classes of antidepressant drugs are commonly used: the tricyclic drugs, employed since the early 1960s, and the monoamine oxidase inhibitors (M.O.A.I.s).

There has been some question with regard to the effectiveness and even the safety of anti-depressants. The high profile deaths of celebrities who were using anti-depressants have again brought these conventional medicines under scrutiny. http://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/celebrity-depression-deaths-highlight-antidepressant-questions/story?id=9983063

In fact, there have been hundreds, indeed thousands of anti-depressant related incidents and a lot of them fatal. See here - http://www.issues-of-life.com/Anti-depressants.pdf

For by thy sorceries were all nations deceived. (Revelation 18:23)

In the book of Revelation in the Bible, the word sorceries comes from the greek word - pharmakeia. The word pharmakeia is where we get our word pharmacy from. Here is the entry in the Strong's Bible concordance.

Strong's number 5331 // farmakeia // pharmakeia // far-mak-i'-ah //
from 5332 ; n f
AV - sorcery 2, witchcraft 1; 3

1) the use or the administering of drugs
2) poisoning

According to the Bible, in the last days, many people will be deceived and poisoned by a modern form of sorcery called drug medication.

Drugs never cure. They only change the form and the location of the disease.

The use of anti-depressants may treat the symptoms of depression but it does not address the cause of depression. As in the case with physical health, there are 3 basic steps to take for the restoration of mental health.

1. In case of sickness, the cause should be ascertained.

2. Unhealthful conditions should be changed, wrong habits corrected.

3. Then nature is to be assisted in her effort to expel impurities and to reestablish right conditions in the system.

1. ASCERTAIN THE CAUSE

Possible chemical and nutrient deficiencies and/or imbalances, stress, trauma, tension or hormonal imbalances. Malnutrition or poor nutritional habits. Low adrenal and thyroid activity. Hypoglycemia. In order for the other parts of the system to be healthy, the brain must be healthy; and in order for the brain to be healthy, the blood must be pure . If, by correct habits of eating and drinking, the blood is kept pure , the brain will be properly nourished. The use of unhealthful food, and overeating of even that which is wholesome, should alike be avoided. Many eat at all hours, regardless of the laws of health. Then gloom covers the mind. When the stomach is disturbed, the mind is disturbed, and the brain nerve power is weakened. The brain is affected by the condition of the stomach. A disordered stomach is productive of a disordered, uncertain state of mind. Mental effort without corresponding physical exercise, calls an undue proportion of blood to the brain, and thus the circulation is unbalanced. Any unnatural excitement of the nervous system affects the brain nerve power. Physical inaction lessens not only mental but moral power. Coffee is a hurtful indulgence. It temporarily excites the mind to unwanted action, but the after-effect is exhaustion, prostration, paralysis of the mental, moral, and physical powers.The lungs are constantly throwing off impurities, and they need to be constantly supplied with fresh air. Impure air does not afford the necessary supply of oxygen, and the blood passes to the brain and other organs without being vitalized. Seasonal depression may be due to insufficient sunlight. Tobacco weakens the brain, and paralyzes its fine sensibilities. (All of the above are violations of the 8 laws of health, so learn them - http://www.issues-of-life.com/8%20LAWS%20OF%20HEALTH.html)

Possible violations of one or more or all 8 of the basic laws of the mind - primarily > Beholding, Mental Activity, Physical Relation, Adaptation and Thoughts.

1. It is a law of the human mind that by beholding we become changed. The mind assimilates to that which it feeds upon. We become changed into the image of that upon which we dwell - beholding wrong things.

2. The influence of the love of money over the human mind is almost paralyzing. - wrong value system

3. A mind that easily stumbles over hurt feelings will conjure up mistaken ideas of all kinds. - Disease is sometimes produced, and is often greatly aggravated, by the imagination. oversensitivity and failure to control imagination

4. The mind must not remain dormant. If it is not exercised in the acquisition of knowledge, there will be a sinking into ignorance, superstition, and fancy. - mental inactivity

5. Every wrong habit which injures the health of the body, reacts in effect upon the mind.-- improper physical habits

6. If the mind is never exalted above the level of humanity, if it is not uplifted by faith to' contemplate infinite wisdom and love, the man will be constantly sinking lower and lower. - low aim, exclusion of God

7. If the thoughts are wrong, the feelings will be wrong; and the thoughts and feelings combined make up the moral character.- wrong thoughts or thinking wrong

8. Nothing can weaken and unbalance the human mind like brooding over supposed wrongs, thinking that you are not appreciated. - self pity

9. It is a law of nature that our thoughts and feelings are" encouraged and strengthened as we give them utterance.-- saying things that are not right or good

10. Where there is no purpose, there is a disposition to indolence, but where there is a sufficiently important object in view, all the powers of the mind will come into spontaneous activity. - lack of purpose

2. CORRECT WRONG HABITS - CHANGE UNHEALTHFUL CONDITIONS

The brain is an organ elaborated and functioning from substances present in the diet. Dietary regulation of blood glucose level (via ingestion of food with a low glycemic index ensuring a low insulin level) improves the quality and duration of intellectual performance. The nature of the amino acid composition of dietary proteins contributes to good cerebral function; tryptophan plays a special role. Learn the 8 laws of health and bring your life into harmony with them. Learn the basic 8 laws of the mind and bring your mind into harmony with them. Email request for more detail regarding the laws of the mind.

Since the blood nourishes the brain which houses your mind, it is imperative that the blood be kept as clean as possible. The blood is made up of whatever is introduced into the blood stream.

Avoid all hydrogenated oils, margarine, shortening, greases, and fried foods. Omit all animal products meat, milk, cheese, eggs, butter, yogurt, ice cream.

Especially should objectionable meats such as pork, ham, bacon, sausage, hot dogs, hamburger, canned meat spreads, pressed meats, and canned composite meats such as Spam, be permanently eliminated. Do not use white bread, buns, melba toast, crackers and saltines, cakes, cookies, white macaroni, spaghetti, white rice, bolted corn meal, cream of wheat, and other refined grain products.

Never use soft drinks, coffees, teas, medicines, chocolate. May use non-caffeinated herb teas and cereal beverages. Crackers, cakes and cookies are unhealthful when made with baking soda or powder, eggs, milk, shortening, artificial flavorings and colorings and sugar. Overcome constipation. If you eat 2 meals per day - you should have at least 2 bowel movements per day. Anything less is constipation. Increase fiber and water intake.

Get plenty of exercise and filter your mental food with Philippians 4:8. Avoid music that does not elevate your thoughts or tend toward the development of a Christlike character. Don't dwell upon negative or sad themes or words in books or via any other media form. (Radio, t.v., movies, etc.) Choose cheering, uplifting words to speak and avoid disagreements. Be patient or become one. Don't try to be a god. Acknowledge your imperfections but never undervalue yourself. Proper self-estimation is found in Christ.

Laws of the mind which will help -

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are] lovely , whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

(Philippians 4:8)

1. When the mind is free and happy from a sense of duty well done and the satisfaction of giving happiness to others, the cheering, uplifting influence brings new life to the whole being. - cheering others and making them happy in the way that God approves of.

2. The mind which is occupied with exalted themes becomes itself ennobled. - preoccupation with uplifting themes (Christ, heaven, eternity, moral excellence, immortality)

3. Feelings for others' woes will divert the mind from repining, and lead to the forgetfulness of real suffering. - sympathizing with others

4. Check all exaggerated language,' for it destroys the harmony of the mind.-- speak only truth

5. If the thoughts are rightly disciplined, it will be a far lessdifficult task to control the feelings. - control the thoughts

3. ASSIST THE BODY TO HEAL ITSELF

The nature of the amino acid composition of dietary proteins contributes to good cerebral function; tryptophan, Glutamine may be used as an additional brain fuel.

Epinephrine and dopamine (happy hormones) in the brain are formed from phenylalanine and tyrosine.

Amino acid complex, Omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed oil. Do not get omega-3 from animal sources. Good vitamin and minerals including adequate amounts of manganese, copper, and zinc. The use of glucose by nervous tissue implies the presence of vitamin B1. Vitamin B9 preserves memory during aging, and with vitamin B12 delays the onset of signs of dementia, provided it is administered in a precise clinical window, at the onset of the first symptoms. Vitamins B6 and B12, among others, are directly involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Nerve endings contain the highest concentrations of vitamin C in the human body.

Supplements Recap: Amino acids (tryptophan, glutamine, tyrosine and phenylalanine,

Omega 3 fatty acids from flax seed oil or another vegetable source.

B complex vitamins and Vitamin C in ascorbate form.

1. Eat a balanced protein diet which includes soybeans, nuts and seeds.
2. Take 1 Tbs. of Lecithin 3 times daily
3. Take 1 Tbs. Blackstrap Molasses 3 times daily (optional)

Herbs - Ginseng, Gotu-Kola, Burdock as recommended if in capsule form.

Drink plenty of water. Brain is 75 - 85% water.

Pray and ask God to change your heart and then for strength and grace to change your lifestyle

CHALLENGE - Try all the above for 10 days and see if there is not a significant improvement

The use of herbs should complement obedience to the 8 laws of health. More information about this at www.issues-of-life.com under health issues.

By attempting to put into practice anything that you have read in this article you release Tyrone Keels from any responsibility for the results if you are dissatisfied with the outcome. Read the full disclaimer for health issues at www.issues-of-life.com

© 2010 Tyrone Keels

www.issues-of-life.com