Celebrate the Gift of Life

This is the day the Lord has made; REJOICE and BE GLAD in it. Psalm 118:24

"Today is a non-renewable resource - once it's gone, it's gone forever. Our responsibility, as thoughtful believers, is to use this day in the service of God's will and in the service of His people. When we do so, we enrich our own lives and the lives of those whom we love.

God has richly blessed us, and He wants you to rejoice in His gifts. That's why this day - and each day that follows - should be a time of prayer and celebration as we consider the Good News of God's free gift: salvation through Jesus Christ.

Oswald Chambers correctly observed, "Joy is the great note all throughout the Bible." E Stanley Jones echoed that thought when he wrote, "Christ and Joy go together." But, even the most dedicated Christians can, on occasion, forget to celebrate each day for what is is: a priceless gift from God.

What do you expect from the day ahead? Are you expecting God to do wonderful things, or are you living beneath a cloud of apprehension and doubt? The familiar words of Psalm 118:24 remind us that every day is a cause for celebration. Our duty, as believers, is to rejoice in God's marvelous creation.

Today, let's celebrate the life that God has given you. Today, put a smile on your face, kind words on your lips, and a song in your heart. Be generous with your praise and free with your encouragement. And then, when you have celebrated life to the full, invite your friends to do likewise. After all, this is God's day, and He has given us clear instructions for its use. We are commanded to REJOICE and be GLAD."

Let the celebration begin!!!!!

Eat This, Burn Fat!

10 POWERHOUSE FOODS THAT WILL HELP YOU BURN FAT

Marissa Balch - CPT, Nutrition Coach

1. Oatmeal

Great source of soluble fiber and slow-digesting carbohydrates that will keep blood sugar and insulin in check so fat burning can stay high.

2. Eggs

A form of well-absorbed protein, healthy fats and Vitamin D (found in the egg yolk). Eggs also contain lecithin, which promotes healthy liver function, thereby helping the body to burn fat.

3. Salmon

High in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon reduces inflammation in the body and lowers LDL and triglyceride levels while raising good HDL levels. Salmon also has a beneficial effect on leptin (hunger hormone) levels in the body, which means it helps to suppress your appetite.

4. Nuts

Another source of fiber and rich in omega-3s, these fats help to regulate blood sugar and protect the heart and the immune system.

5. Grapefruit & Berries:

These fruits contain slow-digesting carbs and are rich in fat-fighting fiber. Strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries all are loaded with soluble fiber and antioxidants that protect blood vessels and promote healthy blood flow.

6. Avocado:

It’s got fat, yes, but the good kind! The monounsaturated fats found in avocado are burned readily for fuel during exercise and actually encourage fat burning. Good source of fiber and antioxidants.

7. Leafy Greens:

Broccoli, specifically, is a fibrous carb that can make you feel full quickly—one reason why it’s a great food for getting lean. Broccoli also contains phytochemicals that can help enhance fat loss.

8. Cinnamon:

Helps to reduce blood sugar levels, which in turn prevents the body from storing sugar as fat. Add it to your oatmeal and yogurt to enhance flavor without adding calories.

9. Green Tea:

Drink this! Not only is green tea packed with antioxidants, it also contains catechins, a phytochemical that helps speed up metabolism and burn more fat.

10. Beans & Legumes

Great sources of protein and they normalize insulin levels and help keep your blood sugar steady throughout the day. Black beans, Garbanzo beans, red beans and lentils are all great to incorporate into your diet.

J&M Engagement Pictures

All Photos Credited to the Amazing - Jennifer Rudolph Photography