* OCCUPATIONAL Safety ? !!

"KEEP in mind that, even if you're on the RIGHT track, you can still be left behind if you just sit there!" - Anonymous.
(Pause and Think of That !)

~ SEEKING God !! ~

"And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him" HEBREWS 11:6.

N.B. IF you honestly want His (JESUS); the One and True God's faith given to you, all you have to do is ask him for it and then SINCERELY Believe that he exists !!

Cheers.k.

~ Humility ? ! ~

"Humility and the fear of the LORD bring wealth and honour and life" PROVERBS 22:4.

~~ ** SALVATION ** ~~

SALVATION is another word for everlasting good ETERNITY! If you are genuinely/sincerely interested in being SAVED for LIFE (Eternal) then you are most welcome to read the published Post on this blog titled 'ETERNITY'/*dated 27/11/2010.

* My life has changed for the far/utmost-better since I've earnestly asked Jesus to personally come into my heart and have very gladly accepted Him as my Saviour!

P.S: ONCE our body is dead IT'S dead - our soul is eternal BUT where do you want/choose to SPEND your personal ETERNITY (pause and think of THAT!) - with the good or evil - NOT personally accepting Jesus as your Saviour? The souls of THOSE who reject Jesus are held elsewhere (another sphere) by God UNTIL judgement day INSTEAD of passing STRAIGHT into the good presence of Jesus when their body dies - which happens ONLY if they've already accepted Him while given the fair and faithful opportunity to accept Jesus God (like everyone) when living on earth in the/this period of His grace!

REMEMBER: There is only One Saviour (He rose from the dead by and through the Holy Spirit for and in God's purpose - the Trinity - read regarding the incarnation of Christ, for you; mankind that He Created) whether you accept it or not! This fact has been documented by
eyewitnesses whose acknowledgements withstand centuries; having been finished perfectly with the Scriptures of the Holy Bible! Other so-called saviours are just dead men.

All the best, always,
Kim.

~ WHERE Is Our Faith ? ! ~

'He got up and rebuked the wind and the raging waters; the storm subsided, and all was calm. "Where is your faith?" he asked his disciples' (LUKE 8: 24-25a).

Where is our faith when the things we want most in life seem always to elude us? Where is our faith when a loved one is snatched away, when sorrow comes and tears fill our eyes?

Where is our faith when our world seems to be tumbling in? Where is our faith when others look to us for strength, and we are weak? Where is our faith when we cannot see beyond our trials to know the whys and wherefores?

Where is our faith when doubts come, and we feel that God has forsaken us? Where is our faith when our hearts break with the realization that our dreams are not coming true? Where is our faith when we have prayed and our answers seem so long in coming?

Is it in the One who holds the future in His hands, the One who can calm the mighty winds? Do we trust Him when we cannot see or do we walk blindly as others do? Help us, Lord, when our faith is weak. Take our hands and lead us gently.

When trying days come our way, let us cling to the only thing in life that is steadfast and sure. He will dry the tears from our eyes, set our hearts aglow and fill us with His joy.

JUDY FREELAND

~ LOW-fat HIGH-flavour/flavor CREAMY Garlic-Red Pepper Dip !! ~

Yield: 2/3 cup.

1 jar (7 ounces) roasted red peppers, drained
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1/3 cup low-fat cottage cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
salt and pepper to taste

COMBINE the roasted peppers and vinegar in a food processor. Puree until smooth! ADD the cottage cheese, garlic, salt, and pepper and process until smooth! SERVE with vegetable crudite and/or pita triangles.

Bon Apetit

~ * I STOPPED This MORNING !!! * ~

I STOPPED this morning, LORD; I stopped and listened. WHAT did I hear? I heard You, the Creator, the Great One who designs. I stopped. I touched. I felt. What did I touch and feel, Lord? I felt Your clean, cool air. It made the pine cones snap and little seeds come floating down to earth to die and to live again.



"I stopped this morning, Lord, to enjoy Your warm sunshine. It warmed my face. It felt good wherever it touched. You are the Sunshine of life, and whenever we stop and let You touch our hearts and lives, we are like the pine cones. We leave seeds all around us. *SOME will die, BUT many others will float out to who knows where and take on life as only You can give it!!



"WHEN the world seems cold, You are warmth and comfort. YOU give us rich, lush shade in the heat of life. You give life and hope. Thank you, Lord Jesus."



"O Lord, our Lord, how majestic is your name in all the earth! You have set your glory above the heavens" (PSALM 8:1).



HELEN CRIMM

~ EVERY Moment ? ! ~

In Happy MOMENTS - PRAISE God.

In Difficult MOMENTS - SEEK God.

In Quiet MOMENTS - WORSHIP God.

In Painful MOMENTS - TRUST God.

EVERY Moment - THANK God !

~ NIV BIBLE Promise ! ~

Belief

"I have come into the world as light, so that no one who believes in Me (Jesus God) should stay in darkness" (John 12:46).

~ LOW-fat HIGH-flavour TORTILLA Chips ! ~

Yield: 2 cups chips.

6 flour tortillas, each 8 inches in diameter
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

PREHEAT oven to 350deg.F.
SPRAY one side of each tortilla with olive oil non-stick cooking spray (or try Grapeseed oil for a more crisp final effect). MIX the cumin, garlic powder, and salt together in a small bowl. SPRINKLE over the sprayed side of the tortillas. CUT each tortilla into 6 wedges and arrange on a baking sheet. BAKE until crisp, about 10 minutes!

Bon Apetit

* Esteem One Another !! *

LATELY I have read several things dealing with our tendency to wear "masks." We put up fronts, even when we do not mean to. Of course, this can make the command to "carry each other's burdens" difficult to do (Galatians 6:2). Few of us are able to first reveal our burdens. Perhaps we could remedy this by learning to view others from the same vantage point from which we view ourselves.

Not long ago, my husband delivered what I considered to be a particularly eloquent sermon. WHEN he seemed to need affirmation, I thought, "How can he be needing so much encouragement when he is such an encouragement to others?" BUT suddenly the light dawned, and I understood that inside this pastor-leader lives a "little ole me" just like the one inside me and inside everyone else. I remembered then how much I need to know that it is "okay" when I teach a lesson, serve a dinner or write an article. I am not looking for accolades but rather for a sense of security and of rightness. No wonder Paul wrote that we need to be made stronger down inside the"little ole me" - the inner man.

HOW wonderful to learn that this can happen from the inside, through the work of the Holy Spirit. BUT we must tune our hearts to listen to His voice. THEN we will no longer be so dependent upon the external voices of encouragement - as important as they are.

WE must first of all depend on the Lord for guidance. THEN, as we obey, He will give us the calm assurance that what we have done is not only "okay" but is perfect and right because it was done to please Him!

"I pray that out of His glorious riches He may strengthen you with power through His Spirit in your inner being" (EPHESIANS 3:16).

CAROLYN BUSH

~ LOW-fat HIGH-flavor POPCORN ! ~

THE advent of air-popped popcorn machines in the '70s and '80s made it possible for people to enjoy one of their favorite snacks - popcorn - without all the fat. In the'90s, of course, mirowaveable popcorn packets became all the rage, BUT even the low-fat versions contain lots more fat than the air-popped variety.

Do your family a favor and dig out the air-popped machine. SPRINKLE Parmesan cheese, a bit of garlic salt, even a bit of honey on your finished popcorn for a flavor the microwaved popcorn can't match!

~ HIS Presence ! ~

Jesus comes to us in many ways and at unsuspecting moments. The conversation on the Emmaus road led to closer fellowship as the travelers responded to Jesus' words and invited Him into their home. It is as we spend time actively seeking fellowship with Jesus, that we really learn to know Him and become a partaker of His life and ministry. Only when we have met Him on this intimate level can we effectively tell others about Him.

OFTEN He comes to us in unexpected ways. Sickness, if rightly accepted, often reveals Him to us. In the quietness of a feverish night, we sense His nearness and are reminded of His constant care! He gives us assurance that nothing can touch us apart from His loving permission.

Dengue fever was an unwelcome interruption of my routine in Mali, Africa. My feverish, aching head could not concentrate on praying. I heard the sound of singing coming from the church as the Christians met for their weekly prayer meeting. Their promise to pray for me had comforted me. The aching seemed to worsen and then, in response to their prayers, the fever broke.

ALTHOUGH separated by walls and yards, I had experienced the healing hand of Jesus as I fellowshiped in the Spirit with my African family. In a few days I was able to witness publicly about what Jesus had done. Those days of sickness were not pleasant, but they were precious because of His nearness.

We need to look for Him in all our experiences. Recognizing His presence will make those experiences all that He intends them to be.

"You did not recogize the time of God's coming to you" (LUKE 19:44).

LINDA MCKELVEY

~ * LOW-fat HIGH-Flavour/flavor Special SPICE Cake ! ~

Serves 6.

1 tablespoon butter
1 cup raw (light brown) sugar
2 eggs, well beaten
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup non-fat buttermilk
2 cups all-purpose flour
pinch sea salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup raisins or craisins

PREHEAT oven to 350deg.F.

In a bowl, cream together the butter; gradually adding the sugar. ADD the eggs and mix thoroughly. DISSOLVE the baking soda in the buttermilk, and stir into the sugar-egg mixture. IN a bowl, sift together the flour, salt and spices. Beat the flour mixture into the sugar mixture. Fold in the raisins or craisins. POUR the batter into an 8-inch square or round pan. BAKE until a thin knife or cooking skewer comes out clean, about 1 hour. Cool on rack.

Bon Apetit

~ MINTED Middle Eastern Buttermilk Shake (Low-fat High flavor/flavour) ~

Serves 1.

a handful of ice cubes
1 cup non-fat buttermilk
pinch sea salt
a small handful of fresh mint leaves

COMBINE all of the ingredients in a blender. COVER and blend until the ice becomes blended. POUR into a tall mug and garnish with more mint leaves!

"Mmm..Mmmm."

Bon Apetit

~ GREATER Compassion !! ~

God's love for us is as expansive as the open arms of Christ on the cross. - BC

~ Interesting QUOTES !! ~

Character consists of what you do on the third and fourth tries (James A. Michener).

Tomorrow is often the busiest day of the week (Anonymous).

Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen (Anonymous).

AWAYS be a 'work in progess' (Emily Lillan).

* Handling Chicken SAFELY !

Today, with everyone so aware of salmonella and other bacteria that can easily be transmitted through raw chicken, the following standards bear repeating:

. Always wash your hands before and after handling raw chicken.

. THOROUGHLY wash all cutting boards and utensils you've used to prepare raw chicken.

. Make sure chicken is THOROUGHLY cooked (to 180deg.F.) before serving.

. IF chicken smells 'strange', THROW it out!

~ LOW-fat HIGH flavour GRILLED Yoghurt-Lemon Chicken !! ~

Serves 10.

2 cups plain low-fat yoghurt
1/3 cup vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 teaspoons coriander seeds, crushed
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
8 drops of Tabasco sauce
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon dry mustard
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
5 pounds chicken pieces, skinned

In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients except the chicken. ADD the chicken, turn to coat, cover, and refrigerate overnight!

PREHEAT oven to 325deg.F. TRANSFER the chicken to a baking dish. BAKE, basting every 30 minutes with pan juices, until the juices run clear when the chicken pieces are pierced, 2 to 2-1/2 hours. (ALTERNATIVELY, cook over medium-hot coals, turning and basting every 15 minutes, for 2 to 2-1/2 hours.)

Bon Apetit

~ CONTINUING with RECIPES !! ~

Okay, I've been outvoted. I'll continue with publishing recipes as well! All is good!k.

~ WRITING a PERSONAL prayer ! ~

You protect my back, Lord, so my energy and actions are available for Your work (even though at times I unwittingly make mistakes - yet, You knowing all things, even before they happen, can work through those too). "Thank you" for Your love and care!

May my life reveal Your holiness and reflect Your power, so others may come to worship You.
In Jesus name. Amen. Kim.

~ Cheers !! ~

Am beginning to think that I maybe should change this blog's name (or start a NEW blog)? I actually am finding it rewarding in typing scriptural subjects rather than recipes. It's a real thought and I perhaps NEED to work out what to do! IF anyone has a brilliantly good "cool" suggestion, then, I would be most interested to hear from you! Thanks.k.w.

* Life is not a dress rehearsal so I'm 'seizing the day' - Carpe Diem!!

P.S. Have recently joined an Art course which is fascinating. It's exciting. Am so enthusiastic.

* Life indeed, does continue forward (pause and think of that).

Cheers,
Kim.

~ God's LOVE ?? ~

"WE love because HE FIRST loved us (1 John 4:19)."

SOME time ago I read a story about a widow who, when taking her infant son across a mountain to visit relatives, was caught in a sudden fierce storm. The NEXT day her body was found. Most of her clothing had been removed and wrapped about her baby, who was sheltered quite safely in a nook.

YEARS later, the son of the minister who had conducted the mother's funeral went to Glasgow to preach. Somehow he felt led to repeat the story he had so often heard his father tell.

A FEW days later, the minister was called to the bedside of a dying man. "You do not know me," said the man. "I have never attended a church, but the other day I happened to pass your door as it began to snow. WHEN I heard the singing, I slipped into a back seat, and there I heard the story of a widow and her baby son." I never forgot my mother's love, but I never saw the love of God in giving Himself for me until now. My mother did not die in vain. Her prayer is answered."

IF we as Christians would continually focus our minds on the love of God and realize what that love really means, it would put an end to our selfish living. The old gospel song by F.M. Lehman says it so well:

The love of God is greater far,
Than tongue or pen can ever tell;
It goes beyond the highest star,
And reaches to the lowest hell.

HAZEL HIERS

~ Who Cares ? ~

Does Jesus care?? The refrain of that old hymn has filtered through my mind and heart, and over the years, I have laid claim to its message many times.

The Scripture tells us of several occasions when Jesus wept over things that were dear to Him. When He came to the tomb of Lazarus, we are told that Jesus wept. (John 11:35).

At another time, Jesus looked out over Jerusalem and wept because of the people's sin and failure to receive Him, God's remedy!

Hebrews tells us that we have a loving and tender high priest. "For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses" (4:15). When our children hurt, we hurt. Would Jesus, who loves us more than we could ever love our children, then be unmoved by our cares and sorrows?

Each verse of this lovely old hymn, written over 50 years ago by Frank Graeff, has served the church well in reminding us that the sympathizing Jesus offers strength and comfort.

Does Jesus care when my heart is pained
Too deeply for mirth or song.
As the burdens press, and the cares distress,
And the way grows weary and long?

Oh, yes, He cares, I know He cares,
His heart is touched with my grief;
When the days are weary, the long night dreary
I know my Savior cares.

"Cast all your anxiety on Him because he cares for you (1 Peter 5:7)."

VIRGINIA CUTHRIELL

~ + BIBLICAL significance of JESUS - Part TWO (2) !! ~

*** READ PART 1 BEFORE Part 2 !! ***

The Biblical significance of Jesus' death is seen repeatedly. When instituting communion Jesus said "This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins" (Matthew 26:28). Jesus is the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world (John 1: 29,36). He will give His flesh for the life of the world (John 6:51). He will give His life as a seed must die in order to produce many seeds (John 12: 23-26). Paul uses the language of substitutionary sacrifice on different occasions to speak of the death of Jesus (Romans 4:25; 5:6,8; 8:3,32; Galatians 1: 3-5; Ephesians 1: 7; 1 Thessalonians 5:10; Titus 2:14). The letter to the Hebrews emphasises the finality and the eternal significance of Jesus' once for all sacrifice of himself for the sins of many people (Hebrews 7: 26,27; 9;10). Peter tells us that Jesus "bore our sins in His body on the tree" (1 Peter 2:24), that He "died for sins once for all, the righteous for the unrighteous to bring you to God" (1 Peter 3:18). In the book of Revelation Jesus is the Saviour, ruler and judge of the world. One of the reasons that He is to be given glory and power for ever and ever is that He "has freed us from our sins by His blood" (Revelation 1:5). He is characterised as the Lamb who was slain and with His blood purchased men for God and who is worthy of all the praise of all creation (Revelation 5).


On the first day of the week following the death of Jesus His grave was found to be empty (Matthew 28: 1-10; Mark 16: 1-8; John 20: 1-9), a fact reported by the guards (Matthew 28:11-15). Several appearances of Jesus to the disciples convinced them that He was alive. He had a tangible body which was recognisable yet different (Luke 24: 13-49; John 20: 10-21:25). The disciples preached courageously that Jesus whom the Jews had crucified had been raised from the dead by God and that the disciples were witnesses of this (Acts 2: 14-39). The classic statement of the centrality of Jesus' resurrection for Christian belief and life is found in 1 Corinthians 15. Peter summarises this significance: "He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead" (1 Peter 1:3).


The account of Jesus' ascension is given in Acts 1: 1-12. Jesus indicated that this would happen (John 6:62; 20:17). It is spoken of in Ephesians 4: 10; 1 Timothy 3:16; 1 Peter 3:22; Hebrews. Following His ascension Jesus now occupies the position of supreme power and authority in the whole universe (Ephesians 1: 20-23), He intercedes with God on behalf of believers (Romans 8:34) and should be the focus of the hearts of believers (Colossians 3:1).


Matthew 24,25; Mark 13 and Luke 21 are different accounts of some of Jesus' teaching about His return in power and glory. This return will take place following certain signs but its timing is absolutely unknown. It will be a time of salvation and judgement for which we are warned to be prepared. Jesus told His disciples that He was going to prepare a place for them and would return to take them to be with Him (John 14:3). The angels at His ascension said that He would return in the same way that He had gone into heaven (Acts 1:11). The early church preached it as part of God's great plan (Acts 3:21). Paul taught it as a major cause for encouragement in the Christian life (1 Thessalonians 2:19; 3:13; 4:13-5:11; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10; 2: 1-12) and it occurs in his writings with direct practical application on several occasions (1 Corinthians 15:23, Philippians 3:20; Colossians 3:4; 2 Timothy 4:8; Titus 2:13). His second appearing will not be to bear sin but to bring salvation to those who are waiting for him (Hebrews 9:28). The book of Revelation concludes the Bible on a note of anticipated blessing and warning. "Behold, I am coming soon!" (Revelation 22:7,12,20).


Finis. (It is finished.)

~ + BIBLICAL significance of JESUS - Part ONE !! ~

We believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is true God and true Man, conceived of the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin. We believe in His life being sinless, in His miracles, His perfect substitutionary sacrifice for sins, in His bodily resurrection, in His Ascension to the right hand of the Father and in His personal return in power and glory.


That Jesus was truly God can be argued from many different parts of the New Testament. The angels of God are his angels and the Kingdom of God is His kingdom (Mathew 13: 40-43, Luke 12: 8,9; 15:10). Only God can forgive sins yet Jesus did (Mark 2: 1-12). The Son will be the judge at the last judgement (Matthew 25: 31-46). He has authority over the Sabbath which God established (Exodus 20:8-11; Mark 2: 27,28). God is the one who has the power to kill and make alive (1 Samuel 2:6; Psalm 119) yet Jesus claims to be the resurrection and the life (John 11: 25,26) who can give life to whoever He pleases (John 5:21). He used the formula 'I am' of Himself, notably to claim pre-existence (John 8:58), which in Exodus: 3: 14,15 is used of God. This statement prompted an attempt on His life. At His trial He was accused of claiming to be the Son of God (John 19:7), a charge He accepted (Matthew 26: 63,64). Jesus accepted Thomas' affirmation, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). John 1 and Hebrews 1 are both chapters that provide developed statements of the deity of Jesus Christ as does Paul in Colossians 1: 15-20; 2:9 and Philippians 2: 5-11.


In the Gospels the humanity of Jesus is taken for granted as if it would not occur to anyone to question it! He lay in a cradle (Luke 2:7), he grew (Luke 2:40) and learned (Luke 2:5). He was tired (John 4:6) and sorrowful (Mark 14: 33,34). He questioned (Mark 15:34), and was surprised (Luke 7:9). He died and was buried (Mark 15: 33-47). In several passages His humanity is underlined (John 1:14; Galatians 4:4; Hebrews 2:9,17, 4:15; 5: 7,8; 12:2).


Matthew 1:18-25 makes it clear that Joseph accepted no responsibility for Mary becoming pregnant and we are specifically told that they had no union until Jesus was born. Luke 1: 29-38 makes it clear that Mary wondered how the words of the angel could be true since she was a virgin. Both passages are the work of the Holy Spirit in the conception and both Joseph and Mary humbly accepted God's word to them.


Jesus boldly challenged His critics to prove him guilty of sin (John 8:46), a challenge they could only take up by charging Him with blasphemy at His trial. Even at His trial he governor declared His innocence (Luke 23:4,14,15,22). He had no sin (2 Corinthians 5:21), He was tempted in every way like us yet was without sin (Hebrews 4:15), He is holy, blameless, pure, set apart from sinners (Hebrews 7:26), He committed no sin and no deceit was found in His mouth (1 Peter 2:22) and in Him is no sin (1 John 3:5).


The Gospels contain many stories of how Jesus was able to do things that normal people are not able to do. These events which run counter to the observed processes of nature are called miracles. These miracles are consistent with the overall Biblical picture of God as actively involved in the world He created. They are an integral part of the revelation of the glory and love of God in the life of Jesus and are regarded as the vindication of Him by God (Acts 2:22). The central miracle of the New Testament is the resurrection which provides hope for the believer and without which we are a rather pitiable group (1 Corinthians 15). To reject these miracles is to deny God's work in His world and in our lives as individuals and corporately as His people.


END of PART 1 ...

~ AUSTRALIA February 16 ~

EVEN when I face dark situations, I trust that You still walk by my side. Today, Lord, I need courage to step forward. Lift my heart with trust in You. In Jesus name. Amen.

~ * God's Wisdom ! ~

The young Christian mother wept as she spoke of her divorce. With a hopeless gesture, she cried, "Why do I always have 20-20 vision - hindsight! Now I know that everything was wrong - my attitude, what I said, what I did. Why didn't God give me wisdom when I prayed?"

HOW many of us remember with tears the things we should have done and how we should have have done them? Do we wonder why we did not see things then as we do now? Naturally, as we follow Christ, His Spirit does impart grace and wisdom for the battles of life. Yet too many of God's children confess a lack of wisdom. Too many tears are shed in retrospection.

In James 3, the author describes two kinds of wisdom. He tells us that wisdom from above is, first of all, pure. God's wisdom cannot come to a sinful heart. Sin causes us to make decisions that bring hurt and failure.

Wisdom from above is also peaceable. "For where you have envy and selfish ambition, there you find disorder and every evil practice" (verse 16). How can wise decisions be made when there is contention and strife in the heart? God comes to hearts that wait until they are quiet enough to hear His still, small voice.

James further describes this wisdom as "submissive" - "It allows discussion and is willing to yield" (verse 17, TLB). A know-it-all attitude obstructs God's wisdom.

If we, as people in His presence, are to face the challenges of life in a troubled world, we need the genuine wisdom from above.

Helen Constance

"If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without fining fault, and it will be given to him. But when he asks, he must believe and not doubt (JAMES 1:5-6a)."

~ QUICK Pressure-Cooked 'LOW-fat HIGH-flavour' Pot Roast ~

Serves 8.

-1 bottom of the round beef roast, 2 to 2-1/2 pounds, ALL fat trimmed
-all-purpose flour for dredging
-sea salt and pepper to taste
-1 tablespoon olive oil
-2 medium onions, cut into chunks
-3 celery stalks, cut into chunks
-1 teaspoon dried thyme, crumbled
-1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crumbled
-3 tablespoons honey
-2 tablespoons cider vinegar
-1/2 cup dry red wine
-2-1/2 cups vegetable juice cocktail (such as V8 brand)

DUST the beef roast with flour that has been seasoned liberally with the salt and pepper. IN the bottom of a large pressure-cooker, heat the oil over high heat. BROWN the meat on all sides and transfer to a plate. REDUCE the heat to medium. ADD the onion and celery and cook until soft, about 1 minute, stirring frequently. ADD the thyme, rosemary, honey, vinegar, and wine. BRING to a boil. ADD the vegetable juice and heat just until the mixture simmers. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper!

RETURN the beef to the pot. SECURE the lid in place. BRING to high pressure over high heat. ADJUST the heat to maintain high pressure and cook for 40 minutes. REMOVE from the heat and let rest for 10 minutes, then release the remaining steam through escape valve. REMOVE the lid, tilting it away from you to allow any excess steam to escape. TRANSFER the pot roast to a sizeable plate.

SLICE the meat thinly and then ladle (spoon) the juices (as a thin gravy) from the cooker. May be served with choice seasonal vegetables or/and a light garden salad!

Bon Apetit

~ An OBLIGATION to BE an INDIVIDUAL !! ~

"REMEMBER always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an OBLIGATION to BE one." - E. Roosevelt

~ IMPORTANT !! ~

"The important thing is to NOT stop questioning." - Einstein

~ Anticipation ! ~

Observers say that there are fewer deaths in retirement and nursing homes just before the holidays or when relatives or friends are expected to visit.

We have all experienced what planning a trip does to us. SOMETIMES the excitement keeps us awake the night before we start. It is also true that when we are getting ready for a visit from a son or daughter or some close friend, we seem to have extra energy.

If we are going to live healthy lives, we need to plan ahead for joy and satisfaction. That means to make sure we see the bright side of life. WHEN we look back at our lives, it should merely be to see what lessons we have learned. It is, after all, the future that should concern us. Joseph Addison said in his poem:

When all Thy mercies, O my God,
My rising soul surveys,
Transported with the view, I'm lost
In wonder, love and praise.

To be in good spirit, we need to have a goal ahead of us. When my husband was asked what were the 10 best years of his life, he would reply, "The next 10." At age 78, he was still planning ahead rather than living in the past.

ASKING God to help us keep a bright outlook on life and counting His blessings every day will bring excitement and more robust health to our lives. God's promise is, "Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5). What better word could we find for health and happiness?

"Set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed" (1 Peter 1:13).

Evelyn Letourneau

~ Inspiration ! ~

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

~ Parsley Hints ~

Lots of fruit and vegetable salads benefit from a couple of sprigs of parsley. The problem is that if you need to buy it, as a rule, you'll need to buy a whole bunch to acquire those few sprigs. Parsley, however, will stay crisp and fresh for up to a week if you store it standing in a glass/glass jug of ice water in the refrigerator. Change the water every couple of days, and give some parsley to the dog to freshen its breath. Parsley is efficient at freshening our own breath, too!

~ Fruit Salad Days ~

Fruit salads can easily be enhanced or even turned into a main meal with a few judicious additions! Choose your favourites: a little shredded coconut, a handful of naturally sweet walnuts, a drizzle of honey, a scattering of raisins or craisins. Just a sprinkle or handful will do, so as not to overpower the delicate fruit and also to keep the fat content low.

~ It's amazing BUT .. not .. !! ~

It's amazing .. but .. NOT surprising that some people in this world need to 'exchange' in someone else's identity hoping to succeed when they have already been gifted with their own uniqueness !!

I claim this good prayer: "Be strong and of good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."
(Deuteronomy 31:6)

~ * IT ! ~

IT will all work out.k.
(Pause and think on that.)

~ Vital ! ~

"Our oldest son, Danny, a victim of cystic fybrosis, suffered for four years with frequent episodes of digestive and respiratory crises. I was expecting our second child when Danny's last crisis came. As he struggled to breathe, I left his hospital room and walked the corridor trying to pray. Where was God? Why wasn't He listening? Why wasn't He healing my little boy? I had given God my whole life to serve Him in the ministry with my husband; now why wasn't God coming to my aid when I most needed Him?

In spite of the efforts of medical personnel, our son died that morning as my husband and I stood by his bedside. The funeral of Danny and the birth of our new child came and went in a blur. Though I could not pray, I knew that those "everlasting arms" were beneath me and were holding me up. I realized that God is Sovereign, that He was in control and that He "healed" Danny in His own way to completely relieve his suffering. And some day. I shall meet my son again - whole and vital and alive.

Do you know someone who has recently lost a loved one? The very best thing you can do is to pray that he or she will experience the everlasting arms of the Savior."

'Art thou sunk in depths of sorrow
Where no arm can reach so low?
There is one whose arms almighty
Reach beyond thy deepest woe.
Underneath thy deepest sorrow
Are the everlastng arms.'
(Hymn "The Everlasting Arms, by A.B. Simpson)

"The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms" (DEUTERONOMY 33:27).

Darolyn Irvin

~ LEARNING to Pray ? ! ~

AT an early age I memorised the model prayer and even learned to repeat it with the right emphasis. Yet, it took some very difficult places in my daily walk to teach me what I was really saying.

Our Father in heaven. This phrase has become more meaningful now that I have been born into His family. Our relationship is truly that of Father and child.

Hallowed be your name. Yes. He is my Father, truly, holy, all wise, sovereign, majestic and mighty.

Your kingdom come. Let all the earth hear that word and through that word be brought to accept Christ as Lord.

Your will be done in earth as it is in heaven. When I try to help God answer my prayer, my will gets in the way. I am learning that He knows, even better than I can voice them, the cries and frustrations of my heart.

Give us today our daily bread. No, I have not yet been physically hungry. But when I have needed strength to get through the day, my Heavenly Father has supplied my daily need. I am learning how to trust.

Forgive us our debts as we have forgiven our debtors. My biggest debt was my sin, and that was paid at Calvary. For this I thank Him. I am learning that true repentance and faith produce a disposition to forgive. I can freely forgive others.

Lead us not into temptation. My constant prayer is that I will not listen to the taunts of Satan (the evil one). Christ paid the price for my redemption, and through His abiding love and grace I may have victory over sin in my life.

When our requests are uttered, answers will come as we learn to give God all glory and honor.

"When He finished, one of His disciples said to Him, "Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples" (LUKE 11:1).

V. Cuthriell

~ LOW-fat HIGH flavor/flavour DAL or DAHL recipe ! ~

Serves 4.

1 cup dried lentils
2 cups water
1/2 - 3/4 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons Asian sesame oil
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander

IN a saucepan, combine the lentils, water, sea salt, turmeric, and cayenne pepper. BRING to a boil. MEANWHILE, in a large saucepan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. ADD the onion and saute until soft, about 5 minutes. ADD the cumin and coriander, and cook for 5 minutes longer. ADD the onion mixture to the lentils, cover, and cook over medium heat until the lentils are tender, about 30 minutes.

Lisa Shaw

~ Bird ! ~

"A bird does not sing because it has an answer. It sings because IT has a song."
(Chinese proverb)

~ Help ?? ~

I said to the Lord, "You are my Lord; apart from you I have no good thing" (Psalm 16:2).

"The Psalms have brought blessing to people through the ages. In some, the writer in his anguish pours his heart out to God; in others he rejoices and sings God's praises. Sometimes he expresses how God has heard him and delivered him from fear, doubt and trouble.

In the psalms there is comfort for the believer, and they have ministered to me in recent days as my husband and I returned to India. AFTER a one-year furlough, we were to begin our sixth term of service, and it was hard to leave our four grown children and one grandchild. I wept many tears and asked the Lord if we could not remain in the homeland at least for a while longer. Although He indicated this was not His will, at the time of parting He gave us grace and strength, as He always does when He asks His children to do something difficult.

AFTER we landed at the crowded, noisy airport, there were the usual procedures to go through, but finally it was over. As we rode toward Bombay City, rain fell in torrents, streets were dirty and people thronged everywhere.

THAT night, homesick and lonely, I began to reflect on why I had returned. The thought came that I had not come back bcause of my great love for these people. I had come because I loved the Lord, and I was obeying His command to come and minister to people whom He loved and for whom He gave His life. My prayer was that He might love them through me.

IF today you need help, comfort, instruction or wisdom, a look into the Psalms may bring the message you need for THIS hour." R. Lewellen

~ "THEY took THEIR .. ." ~

"THEY took their time to sacrifice, let us ask - what can we do?" - Clive Mitchell, carer.

~ FEBRUARY ~

"God gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." - Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)

~ EGG Whites and Yolks ~

FREQUENTLY, a recipe will call for a number of egg whites - or yolks - and you are left with the unused other halves. IF extra egg whites are remaining, they can be whipped with a pinch of your choice of sugar? for some meringue cookies, or, used unwhipped for a very good refining face mask. WITH extra yolks, stir them lightly and then freeze in ice cube trays to be defrosted later to brush on bread as a glaze for baking. OR you can always mix them into the dog's good food for a shiny coat.

~ Classique Strawberry WHISK ~

Serves 2.

1 egg white
1-1/4 cup strawberries, sliced
1/4 cup sugar (of your choice ?)
a few (3 - 5) drops of lemon juice

IN a bowl, using an electric mixer, whip together the egg white and strawberries. WHEN the mixture begins to thicken, gradually add your choice ? of sugar. CONTINUE to beat until the mixture holds soft peaks. STIR in a few drops of lemon juice. CHILL before serving.

Lisa Shaw

Bon Apetit

~ LOW-fat HIGH-flavour/flavor FRESH Peach Pie ! ~

Serves 8.

* pastry dough for double-crust 9-inch pie
2/3 cup firmly packed raw (light brown) sugar
1-3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
8 peaches, peeled, pitted, and quartered

PREHEAT oven to 400deg.F.
Roll out half of the pastry dough on a floured work surface into a 10-inch round. TRANSFER the round to a 9-inch pie plate.

IN a medium bowl, combine the light brown (raw) sugar, flour, and spices, mixing well. ADD the peaches to the sugar-flour mixture, tossing gently. POUR the peach mixture into the pie shell. ROLL out the remaining dough into a 10-inch round and drape over the peach filling. TRIM and flute the edges of the pastry. PRICK the top crust with a fork.

BAKE for 10 minutes, reduce the heat to 375deg.F and continue to bake until the crust is golden brown. 50 to 55 minutes. COOL on a rack. SERVE warm or at room temperature.

Lisa Shaw

Bon Apetit

~ The GREATEST Encourager !! ~

I need to have a rest NOW. My fingers aren't hitting the keys correctly and I'm having trouble thinking clearly. Sooo .. I'll close. Cheers.k.

~ It's LIFE !! ~

'Life is filled with difficult moments, and few hit us more personally and intimately than when we struggle with a severe illness or traumatic injury. Fear, doubt, anxiety, and despair strike at our heart. Coupled with the physical pain, the times when life hurts can be overwhelming. Comfort seems unattainable, and hope's beyond reach.

We long for relief from our pain and answers for our questions.' "Without question, many people turn away from God because of the problem of pain. They find it hard to believe that a loving and all-powerful God would permit good people to suffer the way they do. On the other hand, thousands have testified that it was during a time of deep sorrow or intense anguish that they found God more real and precious than ever before." - HVL

God can use sickness in the lives of His children to make them more wise and better people.

* READ:
2 Corinthians 1:3-11

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort."
- 2 Corinthians 1:3

'On the last day of her junior year of high school, our
17-year-old daughter passed away in a car accident.

In one horrible instant, everything we knew about God and the Bible and heaven was put to the test. We needed the Christian community to guide us toward hope as we stood at the funeral of a beloved young woman who had touched so many lives with her smile, her godliness, her love of life, and her care for others.

For many weeks, I couldn't do anything. What could I say? How could I find words to help others when my family - when I - needed so much?

Now, months later as I begin to resume living again, I can say that God has not changed. He is still our loving heavenly Father, the "God of all comfort" (2 Corinthians 1:3). He is still the source of hope in the face of unexpected grief. I write of Him with a renewed sense of my need for His touch, His love, His strength. Broken, I write of the only One who can make us whole.' - DB

* READ:
Psalm 147:1-11

"He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name." - Psalm 147:4

How amazing to read, "He counts the number of the stars; He calls them all by name. Great is our Lord, and mighty in power; His understanding is infinite" (Psalm 147:4-5).

Even more amazing though, is the psalmist affirming that God, who is far greater than the universe He created yet cares about our sorrows. Instead of being distant and remote, He is close at hand with love and mercy for His own. "He heals the broken-hearted and binds up their wounds," wrote the psalmist.

Jesus, the creator of all things including the galaxies, visited our planet to pay the penalty for our own sin and to open a way; the ONLY way, to fellowship and have existing friendship with Him!

'Today He stands ready to bring healing and wholeness to our deeply wounded spirits. From naming stars to mending hearts, nothing is too hard for God.' - DM

The Maker of the universe
Knows every need of man,
And made provision for that need
According to His plan. - Crane

* When God permits trials, He also provides comfort.

~ Contentment ! ~

* "Godliness with contentment is great gain.
For we brought nothing into this world,
and it is certain we can carry nothing out."
- 1 Timothy 6:6-7

* You promise that all bad things come to an end!
Until then, Father, give me contentment with the
blessings I have and faith in tomorrow.
In Jesus name. Amen.

* I know You want the best for me, Lord, and You
will provide it. My job is to live my life in a
way that glorifies You. That is a blessing because You
have given me application to good purpose.
I choose to be content. In Jesus name. Amen.

* "Having food and raiment (clothing) let us be therewith content." - 1 Timothy 6:8

~ Pray ? ~

READ:
Philippians 4:1-9

"In everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God". - Philippians 4:6

When people face trials, they often turn to prayer only as a last resort. I knew a man who was fighting a valiant battle with cancer. As people observed the gradual effect on his body and lifestyle, one person said, "Well, they've tried everything else. I guess it's time to begin praying."

Another man was going through an extremely difficult time at work. It was a crisis of major proportions that had ominous implications for him and for the future of his company. He just couldn't resolve it. Finally he said, "I've tried everything I know to get through this situation and nothing has worked. It's time to start praying."

In both of these instances, prayer was seen as a last-ditch effort to resolve the problem. Only after all other options were eliminated did the person decide to pray. It was a desperate "grasping at straws."

INSTEAD of prayer being a last resort, it should be one of the first things we do. The Lord answers prayer, and He wants us to come to Him continually with all of our needs (1 Thessalonians 5:17). The Bible tells us to "be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer . . . let your requests be made known to God" (Philippians 4:6).

So don't wait. It's always time to pray! - DE

Any hour when helping others
Or when bearing heavy care
Is the time to call our Father -
It's the proper time for prayer. - Zimmerman

Prayer should be our first response rather than our last resort.

N.B. Praying continually keeps you close to God!!

~ Give the milk to the calves ~

"As you sip your latte and munch on your Weeties for breakfast tomorrow morning, spare a thought for the almost one million "waste product" calves born to dairy cows each season to keep them producing the milk on your brekkie.

Normally, within 24 hours, these calves are ripped from their mothers, causing immense distress to both and within five days, these calves are stuffed in a cattle truck and sent to the slaughter house (meat known as veal). As if that were not bad enough, the Australian dairy industry now wants a nationwide legal standard to deny baby calves their mother's milk for the last 30 hours of life!

While Australian farmers may be the most efficient in the world in dollar terms, I doubt if these calves and their mothers would agree with this shocking cruelty that the Government and the dairy industry take great pains to keep an unholy secret." - Michele Dixon (retired farmer), Echuca (Australia).

~ 7 Apples GELATO trivia ~

You may? be interested to know that '7 Apples Gelato' based in Acland Street, St. Kilda (Melbourne, Australia) sells a super-charged 'Red Bull' gelato THAT "walks out the door." The frozen energy hit tastes the same as the popular drink and contains taurine (amino acid), caffeine and vitamins B5, B6 and B12 (won't mention the sugar though)!
Enjoy having some fun.

Hmmm ... how about a scoop of: caramelised fig, pureed cherries, a scoop of the combined flavours of shiraz/black pepper, apricot sorbet made with a focus on local produce, a delicate scrape of vegemite rather than a thick dollop, giving icy mixture a mild salty/sweet flavour. Enterprising!

Those different flavours are just several made with much passion from mainly dedicated family businesses.

~ Standing Ovation ! ~

"SUSAN Boyle spent most of her adult life living with her cat Pebbles, caring for her aging mother, and singing in church. She certainly didn't look like a musical superstar. That's probably why the audience laughed at this unassuming middle-aged woman before she performed in a talent show. Undeterred, Susan faced the unfriendly crowd, sang beautifully, and went on to receive a standing ovation.

Stephen was confronted by a hostile crowd in the days of the early church (Acts 6-7). A panel of religious authorities listened to lying witnesses accuse him of blasphemy (Acts 6:13). Stephen responded by speaking the truth of God's Word, which reinforced his faith in Christ. At the end of his speech, he said, "Look! I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" (7:56). Then the crowd stoned him (v.58). Jesus, who was watching from heaven, welcomed Stephen home.

Most Chrstians aren't confronted with this much hostility. Yet we all need to "stand fast in the Lord" when the pressure is on (Phil. 4:1). We can't let others silence our voice for Christ. Speaking up for Jesus does not aways win the crowd's favor here on earth, but it does ensure His approval in heaven, where it matters the most." - JBS

Stand up, stand up for Jesus, the strife will not be long;
This day the noise of battle - the next the victor's song.
To him that overcometh a crown of life shall be:
He with the King of glory shall reign eternally. - Duffield

"Look! I see . . . the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God!" - Acts 7:56

If you meet opposition, maybe it shows that you are doing something that counts.

~ NEVER alone .. ~

I am NOT alone ... for God ... is my Witness ... AND ... I am His!k.w.

~ WHAT will your autobiography be ??? ~

Will it include a huge amount of humility regardless of circumstances (yet growing through them)?

Will it be one of overcoming adversity from childhood and THEN triumphing?

WHAT are your achievements right up to this day??

WORTH a thought?