Creating Disciplines that will last this year

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Updated: December 30, 2024

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Building a Life That Thrives

The start of a new year often brings with it a wave of motivation to reset, recharge, and refocus on health and wellness. For many, this journey begins with a plan to lose weight, get fit, or adopt healthier habits. But the truth is, the most sustainable wellness changes aren’t about drastic resolutions—they’re about building strong foundations and disciplines that carry you through life’s ups and downs.

What if instead of trying a sprint to start. We try bulding the foundational wellness disciplines and cultivating habits that stick. I’m excited to introduce you to Focus 40 through Revelation Wellness, kicking off on January 6th, where we’ll work together to simplify wellness into four core habits for lasting change. This program is not through the FaithFueled Life App but I am offering a FREE Accountability Group for those who go through the 40-day experience.

The Foundations of Wellness

Wellness isn’t just about what you eat or how you exercise—it’s a holistic approach that includes your physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental health. When we align these areas, we thrive. But to sustain this alignment, we need to focus on disciplines that strengthen us from the inside out.

The four core disciplines of wellness are:

  1. Spiritual Growth: Spending intentional time in God’s Word and prayer.
  2. Physical Nourishment: Choosing foods that fuel your body and mind.
  3. Movement: Moving your body consistently and joyfully.
  4. Hydration: Staying hydrated to support every system in your body.

These disciplines aren’t just good ideas; they’re transformative practices that help us steward the bodies God has entrusted to us. I want to encourage you through the process in my Accountability Group.

Introducing the Focus 40

As we step into 2025, I want to help you make real, sustainable changes by simplifying wellness. That’s why I’m encouraging you to join the Focus 40: a 40-day commitment to focus on four core habits that will set the tone for a healthier, more balanced life.

Here’s what we’ll focus on:

  1. Time in God’s Word
    Start your day with scripture and prayer, centering your heart on God’s truth. This spiritual nourishment grounds us and equips us to face challenges with grace.
  2. Drinking Water
    Hydration is key to physical and mental clarity.
  3. Eating Protein
    Prioritize protein with every meal to stabilize energy, support muscle growth, and keep hunger in check. Will have a meal protein goal and I will show you how to get there and where you can find protein options that are easy to prepare and manage in my Accountability group.
  4. Moving Your Body
    Commit to joyful movement, whether it’s walking, strength training, stretching, or dancing. Movement is medicine for the soul and the body.

The Focus 40 is designed to meet you where you are, making it simple to integrate these habits into your daily routine.

The Reality of Weight Loss

If weight loss is one of your goals this year, I want to share some truths I’ve learned on my own wellness journey. In my blog post The Reality of Weight Loss: Real Expectations to Prepare You for Success, I discuss how weight loss isn’t a quick fix—it’s a process that requires patience, grace, and consistency.

The reality of Weight Loss: Real Expectations to prepare you for success

Weight loss isn’t about the number on the scale. It’s about the person you’re becoming in the process. My weight loss journey changed my life and created a fervor and dependency on God through leaning on Him for support. When we focus on building healthy habits—like those in the Focus 40 —we shift our mindset from chasing results to embracing a lifestyle of wellness that is sustainable and lasts.

LIVE Workouts and Community Support

Accountability and community are essential when it comes to building new habits. That’s why I’m inviting you to join me for LIVE workouts in the new year, beginning January 6, 2025:

In addition,my Friday Morning Prayer Calls at 7:45 AM EST is a beautiful opportunity to connect, grow in faith, and lift each other up. There’s something powerful about doing this journey together.

What I’m Loving This Month

As we kick off 2025, I’m embracing wellness with intention and gratitude. Here’s what’s inspiring me this month:

  • Reading: Unstuck by Christine Caine. This book is a timely reminder to trust God’s perfect timing and release control.
  • Moving: Progressive overload training. The FaithFueledLife App’s 5-week gym plan has been my go-to for strength and consistency.
  • Eating: Good Culture lactose-free cottage cheese. It’s quick, versatile, and packed with protein—perfect for busy mornings!
  • Serving: Sharing somatic movement and emotional processing with incarcerated women through On The Inside. Visiting the maximum security Edna Mahan Women’s Correctional Facility has been a highlight of my week. God is moving in those spaces, and I’m so grateful for your prayers and support.
Created by Olga D. Edna Mahan Correctional Facility

Sustainable Habits for the New Year

Building new habits doesn’t have to be complicated. The key is to focus on small, manageable changes that align with your values and goals. Here are a few tips for success:

  1. Start Small: Pick one or two habits to focus on each week. For example, start with drinking more water and adding protein to your meals before tackling movement or quiet time.
  2. Anchor Your Habits: Connect new habits to existing routines. For instance, drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up or read scripture while you enjoy your morning coffee.
  3. Give Yourself Grace: Perfection isn’t the goal—progress is. Celebrate small wins and don’t let setbacks derail you.
  4. Stay Accountable: Join a community, like our Focus 40 , where you can share your journey and encourage others.

A New Year, A New You

Wellness isn’t about trying harder—it’s about surrendering to God’s plan for your life and trusting Him to lead you. The disciplines we build today lay the foundation for a lifetime of health, joy, and purpose.

Let’s step into 2025 with bold faith and a commitment to steward our bodies well. I can’t wait to see how God moves in your life during the Focus 40 and beyond.

Ready to join us? Mark your calendars for January 6th, and let’s make this the year we embrace wellness with simplicity and grace.

Woman reading Bible

Join the Conversation

What are your wellness goals for the new year? How can I support you on this journey? Share your thoughts in the comments, or connect with me on Instagram at @faithfueledmom and TikTok at FaithFueled Mom.

Here’s to a year of thriving in faith, health, and community. Let’s do this together! Join me for FOCUS 40

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Overcoming Time Starvation: Finding Wellness and Rest in a Busy World

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Updated: November 19, 2024

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Do you ever feel like you’re drowning in your to-do list? No matter how early you wake up or how late you stay up, there are still things left undone. Many of us experience what’s called time starvation, also known as time poverty and time famine. Time starvation is the chronic feeling that there’s never enough time to finish everything we need—or want—to do. A common barrier my clients face to achieving their goals or focusing on their wellness and health is -“I don’t have enough time.” And when this mindset takes over, our wellness suffers. We end up sacrificing sleep, exercise, or time spent with loved ones. But the good news is that there’s a way to overcome time starvation and create pockets of rest and wellness in our days.

If you’re yearning to overcome this feeling of constant rush and find true rest, here are some practical steps to help you reclaim your time, improve your wellness, and find peace even in the busiest seasons of life.

Tips to assess your time

1. Start with a Heart Check: What Really Matters?

Often, we get so caught up in the doing that we forget to stop and think about why we’re doing it. Start by asking yourself, “What is most important in my life?”

Write down a few key priorities: perhaps it’s your relationship with God, your family, your health, or your personal growth. This list will serve as a filter for every activity you take on.

When your calendar is jam-packed, refer back to this list. Does a particular task support these priorities? If not, consider letting it go or re-evaluating its importance. Remember that we can only serve God and others well if we’re first taking care of ourselves.

2. Set Healthy Boundaries: Learn to Say “No”

In our culture, being busy can feel like a badge of honor. But God did not design us to be constantly on the go. Jesus often withdrew from the crowds to find solitude and pray, and we should follow His example. One way to create space for rest is by setting healthy boundaries and learning to say “no.”

Practice saying no to good things if they’re keeping you from your best things. Politely decline commitments that don’t align with your priorities. This doesn’t mean you’re neglecting responsibilities—it means you’re honoring the limited time God has given you.

Check out my post on “Breaking up with “busyness”

Breaking Up with Busyness

3. Break Down Your Days: Focus on Your Top 3

When everything feels like a priority, nothing truly is. Instead of trying to accomplish everything, focus on just three main tasks each day. These could be tasks related to work, home, or personal life, but the idea is to choose just three that matter most and give them your full attention.

This strategy helps keep you grounded. Even if you can’t do everything, completing your “Top 3” each day will help you feel accomplished and keep you focused on your big-picture goals.

4. Master the “15-Minute Reset”

When we’re constantly pushing ourselves, our bodies and minds get worn out, leading to stress and burnout. Build small moments of rest into your day with a “15-minute reset.” Use this time to step away from your work, put your phone down, and focus on something that refreshes your soul.

This might mean a quick walk, a few minutes of prayer, or even closing your eyes and breathing deeply. Remember that rest isn’t just about physical downtime; it’s about letting your mind and heart be still. These moments of calm are opportunities to check in with God, reconnect with His peace, and be renewed in His strength.

5. Use the “Do, Delegate, Delete” Method

With a long list of tasks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. One effective way to handle a busy schedule is to use the “Do, Delegate, Delete” method.

  • Do: Identify tasks that only you can do and prioritize them.
  • Delegate: If there are tasks that others can handle, don’t hesitate to ask for help or delegate. This is especially useful in work settings or home environments where family members or colleagues can share the load.
  • Delete: Recognize that not everything needs to be done. Some tasks are simply unnecessary or can be postponed. Free yourself from the need to do it all.

By breaking down your to-do list this way, you’ll be able to lighten your load and focus on what truly matters.

6. Incorporate the Pomodoro Technique with Rest Breaks

The Pomodoro Technique is a time-management method that involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break. This cycle repeats four times, followed by a longer break. This technique helps you focus on one task at a time while building in breaks to recharge. (Dufor,2024)

After each 25-minute work session, take a short break to stretch, pray, or breathe deeply. Use this time to connect with God, refresh your mind, and ease any tension. These rest periods can help prevent burnout and give you a more balanced rhythm for your day.

7. Schedule “White Space” on Your Calendar

It might sound strange, but scheduling unstructured “white space” on your calendar is a powerful tool for creating more peace in your day. White space is simply a block of time with no planned tasks. Use this time for anything that helps you rest or connect with God.

This white space gives you the freedom to let the Holy Spirit lead you, whether it’s in prayer, journaling, a short Bible study, or simply being still. Making room for unplanned moments allows God’s peace to seep into your day in unexpected ways.

Check out my post on “How to use Scripture to pray?”

How to use your Bible to pray with Scripture?

8. Be Intentional with a Digital Detox

Let’s face it: screen time can be one of the biggest drains on our time. Hours slip away scrolling social media or responding to messages. Consider scheduling digital detox periods throughout your day or week. Put your phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode, log off social media, and focus on the present moment.

By creating tech-free time, you’ll gain more hours for rest, meaningful connections, and intentional activities that uplift your soul. This practice can also help you be more present with God, hearing His voice above the noise of the world.

9. Reclaim Your Evenings for True Rest

Many of us collapse at the end of a long day, scrolling through our phones or watching TV until bedtime. But what if you reclaimed your evenings as a sacred time of rest and renewal? Turn off screens an hour before bed and spend this time doing things that bring you peace—read a devotional, take a warm bath, or pray.

This practice not only improves your sleep quality but also helps you prepare your heart and mind for the next day. God designed us to need rest, so let your evenings be a time of surrendering your worries to Him and receiving His peace.

10. Trust in God’s Timing

Lastly, remember that time is a gift from God, and He has given you all the time you need for what He’s called you to. When you’re feeling rushed or overwhelmed, pause and ask God to guide you. Trust that He will provide the strength and wisdom to do what matters most.

God’s timing is perfect, even when it doesn’t align with our busy schedules. Lean into His peace and find rest in the knowledge that He is in control. Every moment of rest, every quiet pause, is a reminder that He sustains us.

Learning to Wait on God

Finding Rest in a Busy World

Overcoming time starvation isn’t about cramming more into your day; it’s about focusing on what truly matters and creating rhythms of rest that allow you to thrive. With God as your guide, you can make choices that honor both your time and your wellness. Embrace these tools, and remember that every moment of rest is a gift from the One who sustains you.

Let’s reclaim our time, cherish the peace that only He can provide, and live with intention and wellness in all we do.

Sources:

A fresh take on the Pomodoro technique. Faculty Affairs | Virginia Tech. (2024, September 17). https://faculty.vt.edu/faculty-development/mentoring-and-support/faculty-writing/articles-for-faculty-writers/a-fresh-take-on-the-pomodoro-technique.

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Tips to help you overcome food obstacles and habits

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Updated: November 12, 2024

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Navigating our relationship with food isn’t just about understanding nutrition; it’s also about recognizing the obstacles that shape our eating behaviors. A common obstacle that my clients encounter is these hurdles, and it’s not always easy to know how to address them. I wanted to offer some tools to empower you to overcome everyday challenges: leaving food on the plate, feeling compelled to clean your plate, mindless eating, and how modern distractions like social media amplify these habits.

Leaving Food on the Plate: The Struggle Is Real

Many of us have grown up hearing, “Don’t waste food,” or “Think of the starving children.” These messages have ingrained a sense of guilt around leaving food uneaten. But did you know that our tendency to clean our plates often has more to do with habit and conditioning than hunger? According to research, we typically eat 92% of the food we serve ourselves, regardless of hunger cues (Wansink & van Ittersum, 2013).

The Problem with the Clean Plate Mentality

Eating everything on our plates can lead to a disconnect between our body’s hunger signals and our eating habits. Over time, this pattern may contribute to overeating and weight gain. Scripture reminds us in 1 Corinthians 10:31, “Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” This calls us to honor our body’s signals, even if that means being okay with leaving food behind.

Practical Tips for Leaving Food on Your Plate:

  1. Start with smaller portions. You can always serve yourself more if you’re still hungry. Mindful portioning helps reduce food waste and overeating. And plate them on smaller plates.
  2. Practice gratitude before meals. Thank God for the food you’re about to receive and ask Him to help you listen to your body’s needs.
  3. Save leftovers. Transform your leftover food into a snack or tomorrow’s meal. Being a good steward of food doesn’t mean overeating; it means appreciating what God has provided.

Cleaning Your Plate: A Mindful Shift

Growing up, many of us were praised for “cleaning our plates.” As adults, we may continue this habit unconsciously. But when we focus on external cues, like an empty plate, instead of internal hunger and fullness, it can be hard to honor our body’s needs. According to Dr. Brian Wansink’s research, external cues—like large portion sizes and oversized plates—are major contributors to overeating (Wansink, 2010).

Practical Tips to Break the Clean Plate Habit:

  1. Use smaller plates and bowls. Research shows that reducing plate size can help you eat less without feeling deprived (Wansink & van Ittersum, 2013).
  2. Pause and pray mid-meal. Taking a moment to reflect can give your brain time to catch up with your stomach, helping you assess your level of fullness.
  3. Practice intuitive eating. Focus on the physical sensations of hunger and fullness, and use these cues to guide how much you eat.

Mindless Eating: Distraction, Distraction, Distraction

Mindless eating often happens when we’re multitasking—scrolling on social media, watching TV, or working. We eat on autopilot, barely noticing what or how much we’re consuming. This behavior can lead to overeating and a feeling of dissatisfaction. A study published in Appetite found that distracted eating can increase food intake not only during a meal but later in the day (Robinson et al., 2013).

Why We Turn to Food When Distracted

Social media and other digital distractions stimulate the brain’s reward center, making us crave more dopamine hits. Eating becomes another way to self-soothe. Romans 12:2 encourages us: “Do not conform to the pattern of this world but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” We can be intentional about how we engage with food and screens.

Practical Tips for Mindful Eating:

  1. Eliminate distractions while eating. Create a mealtime routine that prioritizes peace and gratitude.
  2. Engage your senses. Before taking a bite, take a moment to appreciate the colors, textures, and aromas of your food. This simple practice can help you savor your meal.
  3. Set boundaries for screen time. Allocate specific times to check your phone and turn off notifications during meals.

Emotional Eating: Coping, Bored, and Influenced Eating

Coping Eating occurs when we use food to deal with stress, sadness, or even boredom. In times of emotional distress, turning to food feels comforting, but the relief it provides is often short-lived. Psychology & Health notes that emotional eating can perpetuate a cycle of guilt and shame, making it even harder to manage our emotions healthily (Spoor et al., 2007).

Faith-Based Strategies for Coping Eating:

  1. Pray for comfort and strength. Psalm 34:17 reminds us, “The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles.” Turn to God for peace instead of food.
  2. Replace food rituals with faith rituals. Go for a walk while meditating on Scripture, or write in a gratitude journal to process your emotions.
  3. Create a “comfort kit.” Fill a box with non-food-related items that bring you joy, like a favorite Bible verse, a cozy blanket, or soothing music.

Bored Eating: Filling a Void

Eating out of boredom often happens when our minds crave stimulation. Proverbs 19:15 says, “Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.” This verse calls us to live actively and purposefully, both spiritually and physically.

Practical Tips to Combat Bored Eating:

  1. Schedule engaging activities. Pick up a new hobby, call a friend, or do something that stimulates your mind.
  2. Hydrate. Sometimes our bodies mistake thirst for hunger. Drinking water can curb unnecessary snacking.
  3. Plan your meals and snacks. Having a set schedule can minimize impulsive eating when you’re bored.

Influenced Eating: Social and Media Pressures

We live in a culture where social media is filled with food trends and influencers promoting everything from indulgent desserts to “must-try” diets. Being bombarded with images of food can create cravings even when we’re not hungry. Research from Eating Behaviors shows that media exposure influences our food preferences and consumption patterns (Turnwald et al., 2017).

Tips for Managing Influenced Eating:

  1. Curate your social media feed. Follow accounts that promote a healthy relationship with food and faith rather than those that trigger cravings or diet culture obsessions. If they don’t they influence you to dishonor your temple through food. Click “Unfollow”
  2. Ask God for wisdom. Proverbs 2:6 says, “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.” Seek divine guidance in making nourishing choices.
  3. Practice mindful awareness. When you see a tempting food post, pause and assess if you’re genuinely hungry or if you’re being influenced.

In our journey toward honoring God through our eating habits, let’s strive for balance, mindfulness, and gratitude. It’s a continuous process, but with prayer and practical strategies, we can overcome these obstacles and nourish our bodies in a way that glorifies Him. Let’s encourage each other and stay rooted in faith as we transform our relationship with food.

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Your Guide to a Year of Devotion and Scripture Reading

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Posted: November 6, 2024

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I received this Bible from Thomas Nelsen Publishing to review as Thomas Nelson reviewer. Although, this was a gift my opinions are my own. There are Amazon affiliate links I get compensated for purchasing from these links. See My Full Disclosure Policy

The Grace for the Moment Daily Bible (NKJV) by Thomas Nelson offers a refreshing blend of Scripture and devotional reflections, aiming to guide readers through the Bible in a year while providing spiritual insights along the way. Featuring daily readings from both the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs, alongside devotional thoughts from Max Lucado’s beloved Grace for the Moment series, this Bible creates an experience that fosters a deeper connection with God’s Word.

In this review, we’ll explore the key features, strengths, and potential drawbacks of the Grace for the Moment Daily Bible NKJV, examining how it can serve as a valuable tool for anyone seeking to engage with Scripture daily while reflecting on the grace and goodness of God.

Have you heard of the Grace for the Moment Daily Bible NKJV?

The Grace for the Moment Daily Bible is a unique devotional Bible that pairs Scripture readings with reflections from Max Lucado, a well-known Christian author celebrated for his encouraging and grace-filled messages. This Bible follows a one-year reading plan, taking readers through the entirety of Scripture by presenting daily passages from different sections of the Bible.

The New King James Version (NKJV), chosen for this Bible, is a faithful and modern translation that preserves much of the elegance and literary beauty of the King James Version while updating certain words and phrases to be more understandable for today’s readers. This combination of a beloved translation with Lucado’s devotionals provides both depth and accessibility for a wide range of readers.

Key Features of the Grace for the Moment Daily Bible NKJV

1. Daily Bible Reading Plan

The heart of this Bible is its structured one-year reading plan. Each day, the reader is presented with four passages: one from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament, a selection from Psalms, and a few verses from Proverbs. This daily variety allows readers to engage with different aspects of God’s Word, offering a well-rounded spiritual diet each day.

By the end of the year, readers will have completed the entire Bible, making this an ideal option for those who want to commit to reading through the Bible in a manageable and organized manner. The division into daily readings keeps the task from feeling overwhelming, breaking it down into bite-sized portions that are perfect for personal devotion or family reading.

2. Max Lucado’s Devotional Insights

Max Lucado’s Grace for the Moment devotionals have inspired millions of readers around the world, and this Bible integrates his reflections seamlessly into the daily readings. Each day’s entry includes a short devotional thought that ties into the Scripture reading, offering reflections on God’s grace, faithfulness, and love.

Lucado’s writing is known for being heartwarming, relatable, and filled with grace-centered theology. He has a gift for taking profound spiritual truths and making them accessible to everyday readers. His devotionals in this Bible are designed to uplift and encourage, offering practical applications that help believers understand how God’s grace plays out in their daily lives.

These devotionals are brief yet impactful, giving readers a moment to pause and reflect on how the truths of Scripture can be lived out practically. For example, after reading a passage about God’s provision in the Old Testament, Lucado might offer a reflection on trusting God to provide for our needs today. This combination of Scripture and personal reflection makes each day’s reading more engaging and meaningful.

3. Emphasis on God’s Grace

As the title suggests, the theme of grace runs throughout the entire Bible. Max Lucado’s reflections consistently highlight the centrality of God’s grace in the life of a believer, from the creation story in Genesis to the redemptive work of Christ in the New Testament. Whether discussing God’s mercy toward the Israelites in the wilderness or Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice on the cross, each devotional invites readers to reflect on God’s unmerited favor.

The Bible’s thematic emphasis on grace encourages readers to see Scripture as a unified story of God’s gracious love and pursuit of humanity. This focus is especially helpful for those who may struggle with guilt or performance-based faith, as Lucado’s reflections continually draw attention back to God’s undeserved, boundless grace.

4. NKJV Translation

The choice of the New King James Version (NKJV) for this devotional Bible is a strength for readers who appreciate the beauty and cadence of the King James Version but prefer a more updated, accessible text. The NKJV retains much of the poetic structure and literary style of the KJV, while offering a more contemporary reading experience.

The NKJV is known for its accuracy and clarity, making it a great option for those who want a reliable and readable translation that still carries the weight and majesty of the original text. For daily Bible reading, it strikes a balance between faithfulness to the original languages and readability for modern audiences.

5. Simple and Easy-to-Follow Layout

The Grace for the Moment Daily Bible is organized in a clear and straightforward way. Each day’s reading is clearly marked, making it easy to find where you left off. The readings for each day are short enough to be manageable, even for readers with busy schedules, yet comprehensive enough to provide a meaningful encounter with God’s Word.

The Bible includes 365 days of readings, and each devotional follows the date, so readers can start at any point in the year. Whether you begin on January 1st or later, the layout allows for easy tracking and progression.

grace in the moment bible

6. Devotionals that Encourage Application

The devotionals in this Bible aren’t just reflective but also challenge readers to apply what they’ve read to their own lives. Max Lucado’s writing style invites readers to consider how God’s grace affects their personal walk with Christ, their relationships, and even their outlook on life’s struggles.

For instance, after reading a passage about forgiveness in the Gospels, Lucado might offer a reflection on how we can extend that same grace to those who have wronged us. These practical applications make this Bible an excellent tool for believers looking to grow spiritually and live out their faith in everyday life.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Daily structure: The organized reading plan makes it easy to stay on track with daily Bible reading. The balanced selection from the Old and New Testaments, Psalms, and Proverbs offers a varied and enriching experience.
  • Grace-centered devotionals: Max Lucado’s reflections are a major strength, offering readers encouraging and grace-filled meditations that complement the day’s Scripture.
  • NKJV translation: The NKJV provides a beautiful and faithful translation that combines the literary style of the KJV with contemporary readability.
  • Manageable daily readings: The short daily readings make it accessible for busy individuals who may only have a few minutes each day to spend in Scripture.
  • Emphasis on grace: The focus on grace is uplifting and reminds readers of the central message of the Gospel.

Cons:

  • Limited depth for in-depth study: While the devotionals are powerful, they are relatively short, and the Bible lacks additional study tools such as concordances, cross-references, or detailed commentary. Those seeking deeper theological insights may need to supplement with other resources.
  • Repetitive themes: Because the devotionals focus so heavily on grace, some readers might find the themes to be a bit repetitive over time. However, for those who appreciate daily reminders of God’s love and mercy, this may not be a significant issue.
  • No extra study aids: This Bible is not designed for in-depth study, so readers who prefer Bibles with extensive footnotes, study articles, or maps may find it lacking in those areas.

Who Is the Grace for the Moment Daily Bible NKJV For?

The Grace for the Moment Daily Bible NKJV is ideal for believers who want to read through the Bible in a year while also reflecting on God’s grace in their lives. It’s a perfect option for:

  • Busy Christians looking for a structured daily reading plan that fits into their schedules.
  • New believers or those new to Bible reading who will appreciate the encouragement and simplicity of Max Lucado’s devotionals.
  • Anyone seeking encouragement and a deeper understanding of God’s grace.
  • Devotional readers who want a Bible that combines Scripture reading with a daily dose of inspiration.

Take Daily Moments to Connect with Grace

The Grace for the Moment Daily Bible in the NKJV is a beautifully crafted devotional Bible that offers readers a way to stay consistent in Bible reading while being reminded of God’s amazing grace each day. Max Lucado’s devotionals are short yet impactful, guiding readers to apply the truths of Scripture to their lives in practical and meaningful ways.

While it may not offer the depth of a traditional study Bible, it excels at providing daily encouragement and reflection, making it a valuable resource for anyone seeking to grow in their faith. For readers looking for a combination of structured Scripture reading and devotional reflection, the Grace for the Moment Daily Bible is a perfect companion for the journey through God’s Word.

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Embracing Healthy Fats for Optimal Health in Your Forties

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Updated: October 5, 2024

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For many women, the word “fat” has long carried a negative connotation. Diet trends over the past few decades have often demonized fat, leading many to believe that consuming it will result in weight gain and health problems. This perspective is not only outdated but also detrimental to overall health. Particularly for women in their forties, understanding the essential role that fats play in a balanced diet is crucial. Let’s explore why women in their forties should embrace, rather than fear, dietary fat.

The Changing Nutritional Needs in Your Forties

As women enter their forties, their bodies undergo significant changes. Hormonal shifts associated with perimenopause can impact everything from mood and energy levels to metabolism and weight distribution. During this time, it’s more important than ever to ensure that your diet is nutritionally balanced to support these changes.

The Role of Fat in Hormonal Health

Fats are essential building blocks for hormones. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are crucial for hormone production and balance. These healthy fats are found in foods such as fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, and certain vegetable oils. By including these fats in your diet, you can help manage the hormonal fluctuations that occur during perimenopause, which can help alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and fatigue.

Heart Health and Fat: A Crucial Connection

Heart disease is a leading concern for women as they age. While it’s true that certain types of fat (like trans fats and excessive saturated fats) can negatively impact heart health, healthy fats can actually promote cardiovascular well-being. Monounsaturated fats, found in foods such as avocados, olive oil, and nuts, help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels while increasing good cholesterol (HDL) levels. Polyunsaturated fats, particularly omega-3 fatty acids, have anti-inflammatory properties that protect the heart and blood vessels.

Enhancing Nutrient Absorption

Certain vitamins—A, D, E, and K—are fat-soluble, meaning they require dietary fat to be properly absorbed by the body. These vitamins are crucial for various functions:

  • vitamin A for vision and immune function
  • vitamin D for bone health
  • vitamin E for skin and antioxidant protection
  • vitamin K for blood clotting and bone metabolism

Without adequate fat in your diet, your body may struggle to absorb these essential nutrients effectively.

Brain Health and Cognitive Function

The brain is composed largely of fat, and healthy fats play a critical role in maintaining cognitive function. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are vital for brain health. They contribute to the structure of brain cells, support communication between neurons, and have anti-inflammatory properties that can protect against cognitive decline. Including sources of:

  • omega-3s, such as salmon,
  • chia seeds
  • flaxseeds

Can support mental clarity and help reduce the risk of age-related cognitive issues.

Sustained Energy and Weight Management

One common misconception is that consuming fat leads directly to weight gain. In reality, healthy fats can be a valuable part of a weight management strategy. Fats are more calorie-dense than carbohydrates and proteins, meaning they provide a concentrated source of energy. This can help you feel fuller for longer, reducing the likelihood of overeating and snacking on unhealthy foods. By including moderate amounts of healthy fats in your meals, you can achieve sustained energy levels and better control over your appetite.

Embracing Fitness in Your Forties: 10 tips to help you on your Health and Wellness journey

Skin and Hair Health

As women age, maintaining healthy skin and hair can become more challenging. Healthy fats play a vital role in keeping skin hydrated and maintaining its elasticity, which can reduce the appearance of wrinkles. They also contribute to the strength and shine of hair. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with skin conditions such as dryness and eczema. Including sources of healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, and seeds, in your diet can help you maintain a youthful appearance.

Types of Healthy Fats to Include in Your Diet

  1. Monounsaturated Fats: Found in avocados, olives, nuts, and seeds, these fats are known for their heart-healthy benefits.
  2. Polyunsaturated Fats: These include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in fatty fish (like salmon and mackerel), flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts.
  3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Particularly beneficial for brain and heart health, these fats can be found in fish oil, flaxseeds, and chia seeds.
  4. Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Found in vegetable oils such as sunflower, safflower, and in nuts and seeds, these fats are essential for brain function and normal growth and development.

Practical Tips for Incorporating Healthy Fats

  • Choose Whole Foods: Opt for whole food sources of fats, such as avocados, nuts, seeds, and fatty fish, rather than processed foods.
  • Cook with Healthy Oils: Use olive oil or avocado oil for cooking instead of butter or margarine.
  • Snack Smart: Keep a stash of nuts and seeds for a quick, healthy snack on the go.
  • Incorporate Fatty Fish: Aim to include fatty fish in your diet at least twice a week to boost your intake of omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Add Avocado: Avocado is a versatile food that can be added to salads, smoothies, or simply enjoyed on toast.

Overcoming the Fear of Fat

It’s time to move past the outdated notion that all fats are bad. Understanding the different types of fats and their roles in your health can empower you to make informed dietary choices. By embracing healthy fats, you can support your hormonal health, heart health, brain function, skin and hair health, and overall well-being.

Women in their forties should not fear fat

For women in their forties, dietary fat is not something to fear but rather to embrace as a vital component of a balanced diet. Healthy fats play essential roles in hormonal balance, heart health, nutrient absorption, brain function, sustained energy, and skin and hair health. By making informed choices and incorporating a variety of healthy fats into your diet, you can support your body through the changes that come with aging and enjoy a vibrant, healthy life. So go ahead and add that avocado to your salad, enjoy a handful of nuts, and savor the benefits of embracing healthy fats.

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