Health

Restoring the Temple – Vegetarian Foods

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And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which [is] upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which [is] the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.” Genesis 1:29.

World-renowned figures as diverse as philosophers Plato and Nietzsche, political leaders Benjamin Franklin and Gandhi, and pop icons Paul McCartney and Bob Marley have all advocated a vegetarian diet. Science is also on the side of vegetarianism. Multitudes of studies have demonstrated the remarkable health benefits of a vegetarian diet.

Vegetarian is defined as avoiding all animal flesh, including fish and poultry. Vegetarians who avoid flesh, but do eat animal products such as cheese, milk, and eggs, are ovo-lacto-vegetarians (ovo = egg; lacto = milk, cheese, etc.). The ranks of those who abstain from all animal products are rapidly growing; these people are referred to as pure vegetarians or vegans. Scientific research shows that health benefits increase as the amount of food from animal sources in the diet decreases, so vegan diets are the healthiest overall.

Preventing Cancer

Vegetarian diets—naturally low in saturated fat, high in fiber, and replete with cancer-protective phytochemicals—help to prevent cancer. Large studies in England and Germany have shown that vegetarians are about 40 percent less likely to develop cancer compared to meat-eaters.1-3 In the United States, studies of Seventh-day Adventists have shown significant reductions in cancer risk among those who avoided meat.4, 5 Sim-
ilarly, breast cancer rates are dramatically lower in nations, such as China, that follow plant-based diets.6 Interestingly, Japanese women who follow Western-style, meat-based diets are eight times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who follow a more traditional plant-based diet.7 Meat and dairy products contribute to many forms of cancer, including cancer of the colon, breast, ovaries, and prostate.

Harvard studies that included tens of thousands of women and men have shown that regular meat consumption increases colon cancer risk by roughly 300 percent.8, 9 High-fat diets also encourage the body’s production of estrogens, in particular, estradiol. Increased levels of this sex hormone have been linked to breast cancer. A recent report noted that the rate of breast cancer among premenopausal women who ate the most animal (but not vegetable) fat was one-third higher than that of women who ate the least animal fat.10 A separate study from Cambridge University also linked diets high in saturated fat to breast cancer.11 One study linked dairy products to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. The process of breaking down the lactose (milk sugar) into galactose evidently damages the ovaries.12 Daily meat consumption triples the risk of prostate enlargement. Regular milk consumption doubles the risk and failure to consume vegetables regularly nearly quadruples the risk.13

Vegetarians avoid the animal fat linked to cancer and get abundant fiber, vitamins, and phytochemicals that help to prevent cancer. In addition, blood analysis of vegetarians reveals a higher level of “natural killer cells,” specialized white blood cells that attack cancer cells.14

Beating Heart Disease

Vegetarian diets also help prevent heart disease. Animal products are the main source of saturated fat and the only source of cholesterol in the diet. Vegetarians avoid these risky products. Additionally, fiber helps reduce cholesterol levels15 and animal products contain no fiber. When individuals switch to a high-fiber, low-fat diet their serum cholesterol levels often drop dramatically.16, 17 Studies have demonstrated that a low-fat, high-fiber, vegetarian or vegan diet combined with stress reduction techniques, smoking cessation, and exercise, or combined with prudent drug intervention, could actually reverse atherosclerosis—hardening of the arteries.18, 19 Heart diets that include lean meat, dairy products, and chicken are much less effective, usually only slowing the process of atherosclerosis.

©2007 Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine; all rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

To be continued …

References

  1. Thorogood M, Mann J, Appleby P, McPherson K. Risk of death from cancer and ischaemic heart disease in meat and non-meat eaters. Br Med J 1994;308:1667-70.
  2. Chang-Claude J, Frentzel-Beyme R, Eilber U. Mortality patterns of German vegetarians after 11 years of follow-up. Epidemiology 1992;3:395-401.
  3. Chang-Claude J, Frentzel-Beyme R. Dietary and lifestyle determinants of mortality among German vegetarians. Int J Epidemiol 1993;22:228-36.
  4. Phillips RL. Role of lifestyle and dietary habits in risk of cancer among Seventh-day Adventists. Cancer Res (Suppl) 1975;35:3513-22.
    5. Barnard ND, Nicholson A, Howard JL. The medical costs attributable to meat consumption. Prev Med 1995; 24:646-55.
    6. Campbell, TC, Chen J. Diet and chronic degenerative diseases: Perspectives from China. Am J Clin Nutr 1994;59:1153S–61S.
    7. Trichopoulos D, Yen S, Brown J, Cole P, MacMahon B. The effect of westernization on urine estrogens, frequency of ovulation, and breast cancer risks: a study in ethnic Chinese women in the Orient and in the U.S.A. Cancer 1984;53:187-92.
  5. Giovannucci E, Rimm EB, Stampfer MJ, Colditz GA, Ascherio A, Willett WC. Intake of fat, meat, and fiber in relation to risk of colon cancer in men. Cancer Res 1994;54:2390-7.
  6. Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Colditz GA, Rosner BA, Speizer FE. Relation of meat, fat, and fiber intake to the risk of colon cancer in a prospective study among women. N Engl J Med 1990;323:1664-72.
  7. Cho E, Speigelman D, Hunter DJ, Chen WY, Stampfer MJ, Colditz GA, Willett WC. Premenopausal fat intake and risk of breast cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst 2003;95:1079-85.
  8. Bingham SA, Luben R, Welch A, Wareham N, Khaw KT, Day N. Are imprecise methods obscuring a relation between fat and breast cancer? Lancet 2003;362:212-4.
  9. Cramer DW, Harlow BL, Willett WC. Galactose consumption and metabolism in relation to the risk of ovarian cancer. Lancet 1989;2:66-71.
  10. Araki H, Watanabe H, Mishina T, Nakao M. High-risk group for benign prostatic hypertrophy. Prostate 1983;4:253-64.
    14. Malter M, Schriever G, Eilber U. Natural killer cells, vitamins, and other blood components of vegetarian and omnivorous men. Nutr Cancer 1989;12:271-8.
  11. Sacks FM, Castelli WP, Donner A, Kass EH. Plasma lipids and lipoproteins in vegetarians and controls. N Engl J Med 1975;292:1148-52.
    16. Barnard RJ, Inkeles SB. Effects of an intensive diet and exercise program on lipids in postmenopausal women. Women’s Health Issues 1999;9:155-61.
  12. Barnard ND, Scialli AR, Bertron P, Hurlock D, Edmonds K, Talev L. Effectiveness of a low-fat vegetarian diet in altering serum lipids in healthy premenopausal women. Am J Cardiol. 2000;85:969-72.
    18. Ornish D, Brown SE, Scherwitz LW. Can lifestyle changes reverse coronary heart disease? Lancet 1990;336:129-33.
    19. Esselstyn CB Jr, Ellis SG, Medendorp SV, Crowe TD. A strategy to arrest and reverse coronary artery disease: a 5-year longitudinal study of a single physician’s practice. J Fam Pract. 1995;41:560-8.

Restoring the Temple – Vegetarian Foods, Powerful for Health Part II

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World-renowned figures as diverse as philosophers Plato and Nietzsche, political leaders Benjamin Franklin and Gandhi, and pop icons Paul McCartney and Bob Marley have all advocated a vegetarian diet. Science is also on the side of vegetarianism. Multitudes of studies have demonstrated the remarkable health benefits of a vegetarian diet.

“Vegetarian” is defined as avoiding all animal flesh, including fish and poultry. Vegetarians who avoid flesh, but do eat animal products such as cheese, milk, and eggs, are ovo-lacto-vegetarians (ovo = egg; lacto = milk, cheese, etc.). The ranks of those who abstain from all animal products are rapidly growing; these people are referred to as pure vegetarians or vegans. Scientific research shows that health benefits increase as the amount of food from animal sources in the diet decreases, so vegan diets are the healthiest overall.

Preventing Cancer

Vegetarian diets—naturally low in saturated fat, high in fiber, and replete with cancer-protective phytochemicals—help to prevent cancer. Large studies in England and Germany have shown that vegetarians are about 40 percent less likely to develop cancer compared to meat-eaters.1-3 In the United States, studies of Seventh-day Adventists have shown significant reductions in cancer risk among those who avoided meat.4,5 Similarly, breast cancer rates are dramatically lower in nations, such as China, that follow plant-based diets.6 Interestingly, Japanese women who follow Western-style, meat-based diets are eight times more likely to develop breast cancer than women who follow a more traditional plant-based diet.7 Meat and dairy products contribute to many forms of cancer, including cancer of the colon, breast, ovaries, and prostate.

Harvard studies that included tens of thousands of women and men have shown that regular meat consumption increases colon cancer risk by roughly 300 percent.8,9 High-fat diets also encourage the body’s production of estrogens, in particular, estradiol. Increased levels of this sex hormone have been linked to breast cancer. A recent report noted that the rate of breast cancer among premenopausal women who ate the most animal (but not vegetable) fat was one-third higher than that of women who ate the least animal fat.10 A separate study from Cambridge University also linked diets high in saturated fat to breast cancer.11 One study linked dairy products to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. The process of breaking down the lactose (milk sugar) into galactose evidently damages the ovaries.12 Daily meat consumption triples the risk of prostate enlargement. Regular milk consumption doubles the risk, and failure to consume vegetables regularly nearly quadruples the risk.13

Vegetarians avoid the animal fat linked to cancer and get abundant fiber, vitamins, and phytochemicals that help to prevent cancer. In addition, blood analysis of vegetarians reveals a higher level of “natural killer cells,” specialized white blood cells that attack cancer cells.14

Beating Heart Disease

Vegetarian diets also help prevent heart disease. Animal products are the main source of saturated fat and the only source of cholesterol in the diet. Vegetarians avoid these risky products. Additionally, fiber helps reduce cholesterol levels15 and animal products contain no fiber. When individuals switch to a high-fiber, low-fat diet their serum cholesterol levels often drop dramatically.16,17 Studies have demonstrated that a low-fat, high-fiber, vegetarian or vegan diet combined with stress reduction techniques, smoking cessation, and exercise, or combined with prudent drug intervention, could actually reverse atherosclerosis—hardening of the arteries.18,19 Heart diets that include lean meat, dairy products, and chicken are much less effective, usually only slowing the process of atherosclerosis.

Lowering Blood Pressure

In the early 1900s, nutritionists noted that people who ate no meat had lower blood pressure.20 They also discovered that vegetarian diets could, within two weeks, significantly reduce a person’s blood pressure.21 These results were evident regardless of the sodium levels in the vegetarian diets. People who follow vegetarian diets typically have lower blood pressure.22-24 No one knows exactly why vegetarian diets work so well, but probably cutting out meat, dairy products, and added fats reduces the blood’s viscosity (or “thickness”) which, in turn, brings down blood pressure.25 Plant products are generally lower in fat and sodium and have no cholesterol at all. Vegetables and fruits are also rich in potassium, which helps lower blood pressure.

Preventing and Reversing Diabetes

Non-insulin-dependent (adult-onset) diabetes can be better controlled and sometimes even eliminated through a low-fat, vegetarian diet along with regular exercise.26 Such a diet, low in fat and high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, allows insulin to work more effectively. The diabetic person can more easily regulate glucose levels. While a vegetarian diet cannot eliminate the need for insulin in people with type 1 (insulin-dependent) diabetes, it can often reduce the amounts of insulin used. Some scientists believe that insulin-dependent diabetes may be caused by an auto-immune reaction to dairy proteins.27,28

Gallstones, Kidney Stones, and Osteoporosis

Vegetarian diets have been shown to reduce one’s chances of forming kidney stones and gallstones. Diets that are high in protein, especially animal protein, tend to cause the body to excrete more calcium, oxalate, and uric acid. These three substances are the main components of urinary tract stones. British researchers have advised that persons with a tendency to form kidney stones should follow a vegetarian diet.29 The American Academy of Family Physicians notes that high animal protein intake is largely responsible for the high prevalence of kidney stones in the United States and other developed countries and recommends protein restriction for the prevention of recurrent kidney stones.30

Similarly, high-cholesterol, high-fat diets—the typical meat-based diet—are implicated in the formation of gallstones. The consumption of meaty diets, compared to vegetarian diets, has been shown to nearly double the risk of gallstones in women.31

For many of the same reasons, vegetarians are at a lower risk for osteoporosis. Since animal products force calcium out of the body, eating meat can promote bone loss. In nations with mainly vegetable diets (and without dairy product consumption), osteoporosis is less common than in the United States, even when calcium intake is also less than in the United States.32 Calcium is important, but there is no need to get calcium from dairy products. . . .

Asthma

A 1985 Swedish study demonstrated that individuals with asthma practicing a vegan diet for a full year have a marked decrease in the need for medications and in the frequency and severity of asthma attacks. Twenty-two of the 24 subjects reported improvement by the end of the year.33

Common Concerns

Some people still worry about whether a vegetarian diet can provide all essential nutrients. However, it is very easy to have a well-balanced diet with vegetarian foods, since these foods provide plenty of protein. Careful combining of foods is not necessary. Any normal variety of plant foods provides more than enough protein for the body’s needs. Although there is somewhat less protein in a vegetarian diet than a meat-eater’s diet, this is actually an advantage. Excess protein has been linked to kidney stones, osteoporosis, and possibly heart disease and some cancers. A diet focused on beans, whole grains, and vegetables contains adequate amounts of protein without the “overdose” most meat-eaters get.

Calcium is easy to find in a vegetarian diet. Many dark green leafy vegetables and beans are loaded with calcium, and some orange juices, non-dairy “milks,” and cereals are calcium-fortified. Iron is plentiful in whole grains, beans, and fruits.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is a genuine issue for vegans, although very easy to deal with. Found mainly in animal products, small amounts may be found in plant products due to bacterial contamination.34, 35 However, these plant and fermented foods, such as spirulina, sea vegetables, tempeh, and miso, do not provide an active and reliable source,36 so vitamin B12 must be obtained elsewhere in the diet. Regular intake of vitamin B12 is important to meet nutritional needs. Good sources include all common multiple vitamins (including vegetarian vitamins), fortified cereals, nutritional yeast, and fortified soymilk. It is especially important for pregnant women, breast-feeding mothers, and children to get enough vitamin B12.

Special Concerns: Pregnancy, Infants, and Children

During pregnancy, nutritional needs increase. The American Dietetic Association has found vegan diets adequate for fulfilling nutritional needs during pregnancy, but pregnant women and nursing mothers should supplement their diets with vitamins B12 and D.36 Most doctors also recommend that pregnant women supplement their diet with iron and folic acid, although vegetarians normally consume more folic acid than meat-eaters.

Vegetarian women have a lower incidence of pre-eclampsia in pregnancy and significantly more pure breast milk. Analyses of vegetarians’ breast milk show that the levels of environmental contaminants in their milk are much lower than in non-vegetarians.37 Studies have also shown that in families with a history of food allergies, when women abstain from allergenic foods, including milk, meat, and fish, during pregnancy, they are less likely to pass allergies onto the infant.38 Mothers who drink milk pass cow antibodies along to their nursing infants through their breast milk. These antibodies can cause colic.

Vegetarian children also have high nutritional needs, but these are met within a vegetarian diet. A vegetarian menu is life extending. As young children, vegetarians may grow more gradually, reach puberty somewhat later, and live substantially longer than do meat-eaters. . . .

Further Reading

For more information on vegetarian diets, PCRM recommends:

  • Breaking the Food Seduction, by Neal Barnard, M.D.
  • Foods That Fight Pain, by Neal Barnard, M.D.
  • Eat Right, Live Longer, by Neal Barnard, M.D.
  • Food for Life, by Neal Barnard, M.D.
  • The McDougall Plan, by John McDougall, M.D.
  • Dr. Dean Ornish’s Program for Reversing Heart Disease, by Dean Ornish, M.D.

[Editor’s Note: We also recommend reading Counsels on Diet and Foods and Counsels on Health by Ellen G. White.]

References

  1. Salie F. Influence of vegetarian food on blood pressure. Med Klin 1930;26:929-31.
  2. Donaldson AN. The relation of protein foods to hypertension. Calif West Med 1926;24:328-31.
  3. Rouse IL, Beilin LJ. Editorial review: vegetarian diet and blood pressure. J Hypertension 1984;2:231-40.
  4. Lindahl O, Lindwall L, Spangberg A, Stenram A, Ockerman PA. A vegan regimen with reduced medication in the treatment of hypertension. Br J Nutr 1984;52:11-20.
  5. Appleby PN, Davey GK, Key TJ. Hypertension and blood pressure among meat eaters, fish eaters, vegetarians and vegans in EPIC-Oxford. Public Health Nutr 2002;5:645-54.
  6. Ernst E, Pietsch L, Matrai A, Eisenberg J. Blood rheology in vegetarians. Br J Nutr 1986;56:555-60.
  7. Nicholson AS, Sklar M, Barnard ND, et al. Toward improved management of NIDDM: A randomized, controlled, pilot intervention using a low-fat, vegetarian diet. Prev Med 1999;29:87-91.
  8. Scott FW. Cow milk and insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus: is there a relationship? Am J Clin Nutr 1990;51:489-91.
  9. Karjalainen J, Martin JM, Knip M, et al. A bovine albumin peptide as a possible trigger of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. N Engl J Med 1992;327:302-7.
  10. Robertson WG, Peacock M, Heyburn PJ. Should recurrent calcium oxalate stone formers become vegetarians? Br J Urol 1979;51:427-31.
  11. Goldfarb DS, Coe FL. Prevention of Recurrent Nephrolithiasis. Am Fam Physician 1999;60:2269–76.
  12. Pixley F, Wilson D, McPherson K, Mann J. Effect of vegetarianism on development of gall stones in women. Br Med J (Clin Res Ed) 1985;291:11-2.
  13. Hegsted DM. Calcium and osteoporosis. J Nutr 1986;116:2316-9.
  14. Lindahl O, Lindwall L, Spangberg A, Stenram A, Ockerman PA. Vegan regimen with reduced medication in the treatment of bronchial asthma. J Asthma 1985;22:45-55.
  15. Herbert V. Vitamin B-12: plant sources, requirements, and assay. Am J Clin Nutr 1988;48:852-8.
  16. Rauma A, Torronen R, Hanninen O, Mykkanen H. Vitamin B-12 status of long-term adherents of a strict uncooked vegan diet (“living food diet”) is compromised. J Nutr 1995;125:2511-5.
  17. Position of the American Dietetic Association: vegetarian diets. J Amer Diet Assoc 2003;103(6):748-765.
  18. Hergenrather J, Hlady G, Wallace B, Savage E. Pollutants in breast milk of vegetarians (letter). N Engl J Med 1981;304:792.
  19. Allergies in infants are linked to mother’s diets. New York Times, 30 August 1990.

©2007 Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine; all rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

Restoring the Withered Right Arm, Part 1

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When we exercise an attitude of gratitude, the resulting hormones called endorphins tend to have a physiological impact upon our lives. Endorphins may be produced in three ways: through our emotions, through sunlight, and through exercise. The importance of attitude is spoken of in Proverbs 17:22: “A merry heart doeth good [like] a medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.”

From Proverbs 3:5–8, we read: “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil. It shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” When we look at the context of this passage of Scripture, to what is the word it, in verse 8, referring? It is referring to trust. This is the very theme of the text. The Bible says, “Trust in the Lord shall be health to thy navel, and marrow to thy bones.” The navel is the center of the body; the internal organs surround the navel—the stomach, the spleen, the kidneys and the liver.

Studies have proven that when we are at peace, when we have emotional stability and joy, even our digestion functions properly. We do not need antacids when we have an attitude of gratitude.

Verse 8 also mentions bone marrow. Bone marrow, the soft tissue found in the hollow interior of bones, produces new blood cells. So we may conclude that trust facilitates the function of blood cells.

The first line of defense in helping someone is to help him or her have an attitude of gratitude. This means that if he or she has joy in their heart, their immune system function is enhanced. No herb or juice can do that. Only the Spirit of the living God can do that. This is why it is so important to have an intimate relationship with God.

So, today, praise God and give Him glory. God has given us such an awesome, sacred work to perform, to evangelize the world. Let us be inspired to do His work with joy and with thanksgiving.

Three final, great tests have been given for God’s church. The Sabbath is the final, great test. Another test is the Spirit of Prophecy. There is a movement within the Seventh-day Adventist Church at this time to make none effect of these precious truths. A whole generation of Adventists do not understand the sacredness of the Spirit of Prophecy. You may be surprised at the third test. It is the medical missionary work. This is an indispensable aspect of the gospel of Jesus Christ. We cannot neglect this work and expect to receive the seal of the living God.

A Call

There is a call to medical missionary work. As we read in Psalm 67:2: “That thy way may be known upon earth, thy saving health among all nations.” This text is inclusive of everyone on this planet.

Evangelism is the very heartbeat of God’s church. When I became a member of this precious church, I realized that it had a message to give to all the world. I realized that exercise—activity—is the law of life. If we are not exercising our faith, if we are not witnessing, we will spiritually die. The very circulation of the church depends upon evangelism. An arm confined to a sling and left would die. If you do not use it, you will lose it. Atrophy will result.

When evangelism is dead in a church, the church dies. God has not called us to be pew sitters. I recently talked to a young lady who has been asked to help a minister start a television program. This minister is very busy. He even has said that he has so many activities going on that he does not have any time to engage in evangelism. What type of minister must he be if he does not have time to engage in soul winning? If he is just standing in the pulpit preaching, it is no wonder the church is dying.

Evangelism is the heartbeat! Consider the word evangelism. What do you see in the middle of it? Angel! When we engage in evangelism, we have the holy angels with us. In Revelation 14:6, 7, the Bible says: “And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven,” showing the urgency and sacredness of the message, “having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, Saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to him; for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”

The word having means, “possessing.” As we study the Bible, we realize that in Revelation 1 Jesus gives us an understanding of those angels as representing the church. That means the angels are symbolic of people. In verse 6, when it refers to this angel as having, that means this angel possessed something. So, this angel, flying in the midst of heaven, is not set in steel. This angel is pro-active. This angel is engaged and involved. There are lives on the line—our lives, the lives of our families.

Who, What, How

We cannot lead people any closer to Christ than we are to Christ. It is important for us to be experiencing the very power of this gospel, because we cannot give something that we have not experienced ourselves.

When I was growing up in Chicago [Illinois], I lived in an apartment. It is possible to live in an apartment in Chicago with neighbors close next door and never know who they are. You may see them as you come in and go out, but there is no conversation, no engagement, and no intercourse. Are we that way as Christians? Are we ashamed of what God has given us? The world is dying around us, and we have a precious message to give.

The world population today is over six billion people. Over 60 percent of the world’s population is in Asia. Asia is non-Christian, which means that 60 percent of the world’s population is non-Christian. It has been predicted that by the year 2050 there will be 9.8 billion people on the face of the earth; 65 out of every 100 will be in Asia. These people need the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Then, when we talk about medical missionary work, we want to answer three questions: who, what, and how? Who is called to do this work? What is medical missionary work, and how is it to be conducted?

Who

“Every son and daughter of God is called to be a missionary; we are called to the service of God and our fellow men.” The Ministry of Healing, 395. This quote really affected my life many years ago, before I even knew who wrote the book.

When many people think of being a missionary, they think of going to a foreign area such as Africa or Asia. Is that what a missionary is? A missionary is one who has a mission, a purpose. So, a missionary is not just a person who goes overseas; a missionary is one who has a purpose and a mission. Your home community may be a mission field! You may go to some areas in the United States that are concentrated with Adventists or other Christians. That is a mission field.

A missionary is not defined as a person who goes to a foreign field; a missionary is one who has a mission and a purpose. Whatever your occupation—whether you are doctor, lawyer, farmer, mechanic, secretary, or homemaker—you can be a missionary.

“Bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth; [Even] every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him.” Isaiah 43:6, 7. He has formed us for His glory, and He has given two purposes for our lives: to love the Lord our God with all our heart, and our neighbor as ourselves. (Luke 10:27.) Our purpose for existence is to glorify God and to serve our neighbor. It is not to make money; it is not for status; it is for these two purposes. When we put this into perspective, everything becomes balanced. We do not have to be stressed.

“We are called to the service of God and our fellow men; and to fit us for this service should be the object of our education…

“They are to obtain an education that will help them to stand by the side of Christ in unselfish service.” The Ministry of Healing, 395.

Yes, education and working are important, but those are only tools to fulfill our purpose. The reason we should acquire education is to equip ourselves to be more effective in the service of God. Money also is only a tool to fulfill that purpose; it is not the object.

My Witness

“Ye [are] my witnesses, saith the Lord.” Isaiah 43:10. What is a witness? A witness is one who gives evidence, who testifies in a cause, who has personal knowledge of something. A witness is someone who has first-hand experience of a situation or topic. This is what the gospel is all about.

Ellen White wrote: “God can and will use those who have not had a thorough education in the schools of men.” Christian Service, 24.

That means you do not have to have secular education degrees in order to do this work. I suggest, however, that you need three degrees: a B.A., an M.D., and a Ph.D. If you are unfamiliar with these degrees, allow me to explain. They are: B.A.—Born Again; M.D.—Made in the Divine image; and Ph.D.—Praise Him Daily. If you have these three degrees, you will qualify to do the work of God.

Every Member

“We have come to a time when every member of the church should take hold of medical missionary work.” Ibid., 135. “Every member”! Does that include you and me? It does not say that you have to be a surgeon, although there is a place for that, or a nurse, although there is a place for that. But every member should be a medical missionary. That means we need to learn what being a medical missionary entails.

“God wants the ministers and the church members to take a decided, active interest in the medical missionary work.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 300. He does not want just lip service, but a decided, active interest. That means action! We are not just going to discuss it; we are going to begin to implement it.

Inspiration says, “One worker who has been trained and educated for the work, who is controlled by the Spirit of Christ, will accomplish far more than ten laborers who go out deficient in knowledge, and weak in the faith. One who works in harmony with the counsel of God, and in unity with the brethren, will be more efficient to do good, than ten will be who do not realize the necessity of depending upon God, and of acting in harmony with the general plan of the work.” Review and Herald, May 29, 1888. If we submit totally to God and allow God to use us, we can each impact the lives of at least ten people. That means you and I, without even traveling around the world, could potentially impact the lives of a thousand people!

Jesus trained 12 men. On the day of Pentecost, there were 120. Do your multiplication—10 x 12! And on that one day, 3,000 souls came into the church. You realize that one woman at the well impacted a whole town. One man, once he got his mind together and God told the fish to spew him out, impacted a whole nation. Then, there were the two from whom Jesus cast out devils. The freed men wanted to follow Jesus, but the residents of the city asked Jesus to leave. He left, but He left behind two missionaries who went about as His witnesses. When Jesus was able to return, the people flocked to Him. (Acts 2; John 4; Jonah 1; Matthew 8:28–34.) Do you see how one person, trained and moved by the Holy Spirit, can impact so many others?

The reason we do not see the impact we have is because most of us are still waiting to be spiritually fed week after week. When we attend church on Sabbath, we should go with praise and testimony, demonstrating the power that God has manifested in our lives throughout the week. God is looking for men and women who will be led by His Spirit.

“As thy days, [so shall] thy strength [be].” Deuteronomy 33:25. The promise of this text keeps me and, I am sure, many others involved in God’s work going. If I were to not engage in missionary work, I believe I would not only spiritually die, but physically die as well. That is the heartbeat; that is the passion; that is the life of the church.

Will you answer the call?

Behind the Scenes

There are those who seem to play seemingly insignificant roles in missionary work. You do not have to be before the people. You do not have to be a public speaker or a preacher. A missionary is not someone who always has to be in front of the television camera.

Do you remember Andrew, Peter’s brother? “One of the two which heard John [speak], and followed him, was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother. He first findeth his own brother Simon, and saith unto him, We have found the Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ. And he brought him to Jesus.” John 1:40–42. After Andrew shared the good news with Peter, little more is recorded about him. Nevertheless, much is written about Peter. On the day of Pentecost, thousands came in as a result of his sermon. If it had not been for Andrew, there would not have been Peter’s witness.

If the secretary, the computer operator, the camera people, the cook, do not do their work, those who are more visible cannot efficiently do their work. Do not despise a small beginning. We all have an important role to play in winning souls. We are not to compare ourselves among ourselves. We each should find our place in God’s work. No matter how humble it may seem to us, God puts a high value upon it.

Medical Missionary Work

What is true medical missionary work? It is restoring the right arm of the gospel. Medical missionary work is such an important element of God’s work, but it has been dying. It needs to be revived.

“And he entered again into the synagogue; and there was a man there which had a withered hand. And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the sabbath day; that they might accuse him. And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand, Stand forth. And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath days, or to do evil? to save life, or to kill? But they held their peace. And when he had looked round about on them with anger, being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched [it] out: and his hand was restored whole as the other.” Mark 3:1–5. These texts are telling of Jesus going into the synagogue, which represents the church. There in the church He found a man with a withered hand. The church leaders, the Pharisees, watched Jesus to see what action He would take.

Even during the times of Christ there were what are called Sabbath Blue Laws. The church leaders had a specific way in which they wanted everybody to worship, so they were watching Jesus, the Lord of the Sabbath.

What is the relationship between healing and the Sabbath? It is restoration. What does the Sabbath symbolize? It represents God’s creative work. It is the seal; it is the birthday of the creation; it is a sign that God is the Creator. When Christ died, He rested in the tomb on the Sabbath. That reinforces the Sabbath as a sign of God’s re-creative and restoration work.

We are made in the image of God, and our bodies are to be the temple of the living God. God desires to put His image in the soul of man. The whole plan of salvation is to restore the image of God in the human soul. God wants to bring us back to the original position that Adam had before sin. Healing is a part of that process. Healing is to preserve; healing is to restore. So, there is an intimate relationship between healing and the Sabbath. You cannot separate the two.

The Pharisees looked at Jesus with contempt, and today the health message is being looked upon with contempt, but you cannot separate the Sabbath from healing.

To be continued . . .

Thomas Jackson is a Health Evangelist and Director of Missionary Education and Evangelistic Training (M.E.E.T.) Ministry in Huntingdon, Tennessee. He may be contacted by e-mail at: godsplan@meetministry.org or by telephone at: 731-986-3518.

Restoring the Temple – Diet and Diabetes

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Glucose, a simple sugar, is the body’s main fuel. It is present in the bloodstream, but in people with diabetes it cannot get into the cells where it is needed. In type 1 diabetes (which was once referred to as childhood-onset diabetes), the problem is an inadequate supply of insulin, the hormone that ushers sugar into the cells of the body. Without insulin, the cell membranes keep sugar out. About 5 to 10 percent of people with diabetes have this type.

The more common type of diabetes, type 2, usually does not occur until adulthood. In this form, there may be plenty of insulin in the bloodstream, but the cells are resistant to it. Glucose cannot easily get into the cells, and it backs up in the bloodstream. Over the short run, people with uncontrolled diabetes may experience fatigue, thirst, frequent urination, and blurred vision. In the long run, they are at risk for heart disease, kidney problems, disorders of vision, nerve damage, and other difficulties.

Dietary Approaches to Diabetes

Food can be powerful in preventing and reversing diabetes. However, dietary approaches have changed as we have learned more about the disease.

The traditional approach to diabetes focuses on limiting refined sugars and foods that release sugars during digestion—starches, breads, fruits, pasta, etc. With carbohydrates reduced, the diet may contain an unhealthful amount of fat and protein. So diabetes experts have taken care to limit fats—especially saturated fats that can raise cholesterol levels—and to limit protein for people with impaired kidney function.

The new approach focuses more attention on fat. Fat is a problem for people with diabetes. The more fat there is in the diet, the harder time insulin has in getting glucose into the cells. Conversely, minimizing fat intake and reducing body fat help insulin do its job much better. Newer treatment programs drastically reduce meats, high-fat dairy products, and oils. At the same time, they increase grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. One study found that 21 of 23 patients on oral medications and 13 of 17 patients on insulin were able to get off of their medications after 26 days on a near-vegetarian diet and exercise program. During two- and three-year follow-ups, most people with diabetes treated with this regimen have retained their gains. The dietary changes are simple, but profound, and they work. Low-fat, vegetarian diets are ideal for people with diabetes.

A 2006 study, conducted by the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine with the George Washington University and the University of Toronto, looked at the health benefits of a low-fat, unrefined, vegan diet (excluding all animal products) in people with type 2 diabetes. Portions of vegetables, grains, fruits, and legumes were unlimited. The vegan diet group was compared with a group following a diet based on American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines. The results of this 22-week study were astounding:

  • Forty-three percent of the vegan group and 26 percent of the ADA group reduced their diabetes medications. Among those whose medications remained constant, the vegan group lowered hemoglobin A1C, an index of long-term blood glucose control, by 1.2 points, three times the change in the ADA group.
  • The vegan group lost an average of about 13 pounds, compared with only about 9 pounds in the ADA group.
  • Among those participants who did not change their lipid-lowering medications, the vegan group also had more substantial decreases in their total and LDL cholesterol levels compared to the ADA group.

This study illustrates that a plant-based diet can dramatically improve the health of people with diabetes. It also showed that people found this way of eating highly acceptable and easy to follow.

Exercise plays an important role in diabetes management. Through regular exercise, the need for insulin injections or oral medications can often be reduced. This holds true not only for people with type 2 diabetes, but also to some extent for those with type 1. Exercising muscles have a voracious appetite for fuel. When an individual is engaged in regular aerobic exercise, glucose is able to enter the cells without the need for as much—or perhaps any—insulin.

While people with type 2 diabetes can often reduce (and sometimes eliminate) medications when their weight is reduced and food and exercise are better controlled, those with type 1 diabetes will always need a source of insulin. The cause of type 1 diabetes remains elusive. Several studies have implicated cow’s milk consumption as a possible contributor. When milk consumption patterns were examined across various nations, there was a strong correlation with the incidence of type 1 diabetes. It may be that milk proteins cause an autoimmune reaction in which the body mistakenly attacks its own insulin-producing cells. Even so, a good diet and regular exercise can minimize the amount of insulin required.

The New Dietary Approach to Diabetes

This new and effective approach to diabetes is remarkably simple. Here are four simple steps to managing your blood sugar (and weight, blood pressure, and cholesterol) with diet.

  1. Begin a Vegan Diet: Avoid Animal Products

Animal products contain fat, especially saturated fat, which is linked to heart disease, insulin resistance, and certain forms of cancer. These products also contain cholesterol and, of course, animal protein. It may surprise you to learn that diets high in animal protein can aggravate kidney problems and calcium losses. Animal products never provide fiber or healthful carbohydrates. A vegan diet is one that contains no animal products at all. So, you will want to avoid red meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, and eggs.

  1. Avoid Added Vegetable Oils and Other High-Fat Foods

Although most vegetable oils are in some ways healthier than animal fats, you will still want to keep them to a minimum. All fats and oils are highly concentrated in calories. A gram of any fat or oil contains nine calories, compared with only four calories for a gram of carbohydrate. Avoid foods fried in oil.

  1. Favor Foods with a Low Glycemic Index

High-glycemic-index foods include sugar itself, white potatoes, most wheat flour products, and most cold cereals.

  1. Go High Fiber

Start slowly. Load up on beans, vegetables, and fruits. Choose whole grains (try barley, oats, quinoa, millet, whole wheat pasta, etc.). …

To put these guidelines to work, … choose unlimited amounts of grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables. …

Grains: pasta, rice, high-fiber cereals, corn, oatmeal, couscous, bulgur wheat, millet, barley, rye, etc. …

Legumes: beans (black, pinto, kidney, garbanzo, white, etc.), peas, split peas, lentils, nonfat soy products.

Fruits: . . . Bananas, apples, grapes, pears, peaches, oranges, melons, grapefruit, kiwi, and berries, among others, are all good choices.

Vegetables: all, except white potatoes. Examples include tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, spinach, kale, collards, squash, green beans, bok choy, sweet potatoes, and artichokes.

©2007 Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine; all rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

Restoring the Withered Right Arm, Part II

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In Psalm 89:13, the Bible says, “Thou hast a mighty arm: strong is thy hand, [and] high is thy right hand.”

When the Bible makes reference to the mighty arm and the right hand, it is primarily referring to Jesus who has the mighty arm to save us. You may read other texts that make reference to Jesus in Psalms 89:10; 80:1–3, 15; 60:5; 98:1; 118:15, 16; Isaiah 62:8–12.

Ellen White also references “the arm”: “The medical missionary work has never been presented to me in any other way than as bearing the same relation to the work as a whole as the arm does to the body. The gospel ministry is an organization for the proclamation of the truth and the carrying forward of the work for sick and well. This is the body, the medical missionary work is the arm, and Christ is the head over all. Thus the matter has been presented to me.” Medical Ministry, 237.

Note that Christ is the head, the gospel is the body, and the medical missionary work is the arm. It is important to note that with Christ as the head of this work, no man can tell you your work. God gives you your work.

“The right hand is used to open doors through which the body may find entrance. This is the part the medical missionary work is to act. It is to largely prepare the way for the reception of the truth for this time. A body without hands is useless.” Ibid., 238.

“A body without hands is useless.” That means that any church, any body of people that professes to believe in the Three Angels’ Messages but is not engaged in medical missionary work is useless.

“In giving honor to the body, honor must also be given to the helping hands, which are agencies of such importance that without them the body can do nothing. Therefore the body which treats indifferently the right hand, refusing its aid, is able to accomplish nothing.” Ibid. The body can do nothing without the right hand.

Mercenary or Missionary

“The gospel of health has able advocates, but their work has been made very hard because so many ministers, presidents of conferences, and others in positions of influence have failed to give the question of health reform its proper attention. They have not recognized it in its relation to the work of the message as the right arm of the body. … The Lord has shown His regard for it by giving it abundant prosperity. When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart. When the third angel’s message is received in its fullness, health reform will be given its place in the councils of the conference, in the work of the church, in the home, at the table, and in all the household arrangements. Then the right arm will serve and protect the body.” Testimonies, vol. 6, 327.

There are medical mercenaries and medical missionaries! Do you know what a medical mercenary is? That is the person who can present the whole delineation of how the body works and what it needs. Then he or she spreads out on a table all the multi-level products they say you need to take in order to be well. There is a place for such products, but that is not medical missionary work.

The health message is not a gimmick to get people to buy a product. The purpose of the health message is not to entice people to spend money on things that they might not need. The purpose of the health message is to lead people to Jesus. “When properly conducted, the health work is an entering wedge, making a way for other truths to reach the heart.” If we want to protect the body, we need medical missionary work. It needs to be active among God’s people. “The body which treats indifferently the right hand, refusing its aid, is able to accomplish nothing.” Medical Ministry, 238.

Around the World

“In new fields no work is so successful as medical missionary work.” Ibid., 239. This is why we need to learn more about it. It can go to North America, to South America; it can go all over the world.

In Papua, New Guinea, we conducted evangelistic meetings on health for one month. The meetings were held in a tent that had been erected on a coffee plantation. The owner of the coffee plantation sold it after the meetings to serve the living God. In that area, some men have more than one wife, but after the meetings, those who attended chose to have just one wife. One gentleman who attended the meetings belonged to what is called a Four Square Church. After attending the medical missionary meetings, he decided that he needed to join God’s remnant church. In fact, the Four Square Church became a Sabbath-keeping church as a result of this medical missionary work.

In the Solomon Islands, the people reached with the medical missionary work committed their lives to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Another month-long series of medical missionary meetings in Australia resulted in a branch Sabbath School. We do not know how many people will accept the gospel message as a result of that, but what a golden opportunity was given to reach people through the health message.

In Montreal, Canada, we held four weeks of meetings for the English-speaking people. Evangelistic work is not done in Canada, but a close friend believed that the health message could reach the people in Montreal. Some of the people wondered whether or not the meetings could hold the people’s interest for that long a period of time.

In most campaigns of that period of duration, the numbers of attendees decrease. But for four weeks the numbers increased! My wife was asked to give a food demonstration, one of the first given in the area, and 400 people attended it. Over 300 people in that area are now taking Bible health studies.

The sponsors in Montreal have sent people to our health ministry for training so they can return to their communities and share the health message. The people are so excited that they sponsored a radio program featuring our health presentations for a year.

The medical missionary work is the gospel illustrated. It is the gospel in action. It reveals the love of God. It is a work of mercy. Medical missionary work is not just hydrotherapy and herbs; it is benevolent work. Medical missionary work is reaching the felt needs of the people that they might come to know Jesus Christ.

The Gospel Illustrated

If the medical missionary work is indeed the gospel illustrated, how, then, is it going to be carried out? Who is called to do this work of mercy and compassion?

Jesus came to this earth. He clothed Himself with humanity to reach humanity. He was able to touch the lives of others. A person who lives to himself or herself will eventually die. You see, a true Christian does not have to be loved, but a true Christian cannot live without showing love. We all need love; do not get me wrong, but our lives are not predicated on that. Our lives are based on the fact that God has already validated our self worth. God has already validated our dignity. Because of that, we reciprocate by showing Him our love by working for others.

A number of years ago, I read a book by Douglas Cooper entitled Living God’s Love. (Pacific Press Publishing Association, Nampa, Idaho, 1995.) In it, Mr. Cooper stated that what we need today is love with skin on it. See, God is love, and in the Book of Hebrews 10:5, the Bible says, “A body thou hast prepared me.”

When Jesus walked on this earth, He exhibited love. Because people are visual, they could identify this love. Therefore, when we embrace the gospel and the gospel embraces us, we are going to demonstrate the power of this love, and we are not going to be shaken by ridicule, by insult, or by slander. We are going to move forward. Inspiration says that many people will not go into this work because of inconveniences and reproach. (See Testimonies, vol. 2, 46.)

Cry Aloud

When I first read Isaiah 58, especially verse 1—“Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice like a trumpet, and show my people their transgression . . . ,”—I went into the church, and I cried aloud to everyone and spared not. I had on my spiritual boxing gloves! But as I gained an understanding of Isaiah 58, I learned that this chapter is an indictment of the church for its selfishness and formalism. Read the chapter. In verse 3 we read that the people fasted for show: “Wherefore have we fasted, [say they], and thou seest not?” They were looking for the glory themselves.

Regarding this passage, Ellen White wrote: “The fifty-eighth chapter of Isaiah contains present truth for the people of God. Here we see how medical missionary work and the gospel ministry are to be bound together as the message is given to the world. Upon those who keep the Sabbath of the Lord is laid the responsibility of doing a work of mercy and benevolence. Medical missionary work is to be bound up with the message, and sealed with the seal of God.” Evangelism, 516, 517.

Do you believe Isaiah 58 is a message for the time? Yes, it is. “Cry aloud, spare not, lift up thy voice.”

God says, “Show my people their transgression” and their sins. He is saying that worship without dedication, prayer without action, and knowledge without practice equals sin of formalism and selfishness. This is the message of Isaiah 58. God is saying that we should wake up; there is work to be done. We must get out of our formalism of going to the church once a week, going through the motion of worship, and, when the service is over, going back to business as usual.

In verses 6 and 7, God outlines His work: “[Is] not this the fast that I have chosen? to loose the bands of wickedness, to undo the heavy burdens, and to let the oppressed go free, and that ye break every yoke? [Is it] not to deal thy bread to the hungry, and that thou bring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seest the naked, that thou cover him; and that thou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?” As I travel round the world, going from large churches to home churches to little churches, I see that only a few people are doing the work of God.

When we see a destitute brother or sister, and all we do is say, “I am praying for you,” when it is in our hand to help that person, then woe is to us. God is not saying for us to set up a rescue mission or home for the homeless, but He is saying that we are to reach out to the poor that they might come to know Jesus Christ. To have soup kitchens just to feed people is not what God is calling us to do. If the gospel is not also presented, we are not doing our work. The purpose of our work is to lead people to accept Jesus Christ through the Three Angels’ Messages. This is medical missionary work. This is the work of benevolence. This is the work that will starve selfishness out of us. This is the work that will clothe us with the righteousness of Jesus Christ.

Verse 8 continues, “Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the Lord shall be thy rereward.”

What is the pivotal word in that verse? It is the word then. What does that word then mean? It means that until we do what is before, we cannot experience the “then.”

Walk As Christ Walked

The true fast is not mere formal service. The Scripture describes the fast that God has chosen. Here is set forth the very spirit and character of the work of Christ. His whole life was a sacrifice of Himself for the saving of the world.

“We can walk as Christ walked only when we abide in Him. We can do medical missionary work in a Christlike manner only when we are one with Him, only when we wear His yoke. . . .

“Yoked up with Christ, we receive spiritual life and power, for then we are ‘laborers together with God.’ ” Manuscript Releases, vol. 18, 106.

If we are Christians, then we will walk as Christ walked. He designs that the medical missionary work should prepare the way for the presentation of the saving truths for this time, the proclamation of the third angel’s message. If this design is met, the message will not be eclipsed nor its progress hindered. We can expect great things through this avenue. By doing medical missionary work, we will gain access to the hearts of the people. The way will be prepared for more decided proclamation. We will find that relieving their physical sufferings will give an opportunity to minister to their spiritual needs.

“When human sympathy is blended with love and benevolence, and sanctified by the Spirit of Jesus, it is an element which can be productive of great good. Those who cultivate benevolence are not only doing a good work for others, and blessing those who receive the good action, but they are benefiting themselves by opening their hearts to the benign influence of true benevolence. Every ray of light shed upon others will be reflected upon our own hearts. Every kind and sympathizing word spoken to the sorrowful, every act to relieve the oppressed, and every gift to supply the necessities of our fellow beings, given or done with an eye to God’s glory, will result in blessings to the giver. Those who are thus working are obeying a law of heaven and will receive the approval of God. The pleasure of doing good to others imparts a glow to the feelings which flashes through the nerves, quickens the circulation of the blood, and induces mental and physical health.” Testimonies, vol. 4, 56.

A Final Test

“The word of God in His law is binding upon every intelligent mind. The truth for this time, the third angel’s message, is to be proclaimed with a loud voice, meaning with increasing power, as we approach the great final test. This test must come to the churches in connection with the true medical missionary work, a work that has the Great Physician to dictate and preside in all it comprehends. Under the great Head we are to present God’s word requiring obedience to the system of Bible truth, which is a system of authority and power, convicting and converting the conscience. The demand of the Word to obedience is a life-and-death question.” Manuscript Releases, vol. 10, 31.

Medical missionary work is part of the last work that will go forth when we can no longer buy and sell. This is one work, one job that will not be downsized! Medical missionaries will be employed until Jesus comes in the clouds of glory.

I am never concerned about being laid off of work. I am not even worried about my support, because even the retirement is out of this world. God has already promised that this work will succeed. All we need to do is to become engaged in this work.

Ellen White wrote, “In the days of Christ there were no sanitariums in the Holy Land. But wherever the Great Physician went, He carried with Him the healing efficacy that was a cure for every disease, spiritual and physical. This He imparted to those who were under the afflicting power of the enemy. In every city, every town, every village through which He passed, with the solicitude of a loving father He laid His hands upon the afflicted ones, making them whole and speaking words of tenderest sympathy and compassion. How precious to them were His words! From Him flowed a stream of healing power which made the sick whole. He healed men and women with unhesitating willingness and with hearty joyfulness, for He was glad to be able to restore suffering ones to health.” Counsels on Health, 526.

Think of it! There were no sanitariums. Soon, all such institutions in our time will be closed down. Mrs. White essentially said that wherever Christ went, He Himself was a sanitarium. Whether you are a secretary or a mechanic, you too can be a sanitarium. You do not have to have an institution; you are the institution. You are the sanitarium on two legs. You are love in action.

“The Saviour mingled with men as one who desired their good. He showed His sympathy for them, ministered to their needs, and won their confidence. Then He bade them, ‘Follow Me.’” The Ministry of Healing, 143. He did not say to a person, when He first met that person, “Come and join my church.” He ministered to them. He won their confidence. He socialized. He sympathized. He served. He saved. That is what He did.

In Your Hand

“God said moreover unto Moses, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath sent me unto you: this [is] my name for ever, and this [is] my memorial unto all generations. Go, and gather the elders of Israel together, and say unto them, The Lord God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, of Isaac, and of Jacob, appeared unto me, saying, I have surely visited you, and [seen] that which is done to you in Egypt.” “And Moses answered and said, But, behold, they will not believe me, nor hearken unto my voice: for they will say, The Lord hath not appeared unto thee. And the Lord said unto him, What [is] that in thine hand? And he said, A rod. And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it. And the Lord said unto Moses, Put forth thine hand, and take it by the tail. And he put forth his hand, and caught it, and it became a rod in his hand: That they may believe that the Lord God of their fathers, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, hath appeared unto thee.” Exodus 3:15, 16; 4:1–5.

I am sure you remember the story of Moses. The first 40 years of his education were spent in Egypt, and he thought that he was prepared to deliver the children of Israel. But then he killed an Egyptian, and the next 40 years he spent taking care of sheep. When God called him, he was about 80 years of age.

God asked him to go to Pharaoh and tell him, “Let my people go.”

But Moses protested, “I [am] not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I [am] slow of speech, and of a slow tongue.” Exodus 4:10. Moses was demonstrating a sense of pride, even though it was not boastful pride. Many times when we are called, we shrink back, because we feel incapable, as did Moses. We do not want to be embarrassed.

God is not going to ask you or me to do something that He will not give us power to do. His biddings are our enabling. So, when God calls you, do not question, do not look at your inefficiency; look at God’s sufficiency.

Then Moses said, “Lord, how will they know that You sent me?”

And the Lord asked him, “What is in your hand? That is what I am going to use.”

Today, God is asking you and me, “What is in your hand?”

If you can write, if you can speak, if you can sing, if you can type, if you can do carpenter work, what is in your hand? Do not look at what is not in your hand. Whatever is in your hand, God will use it for His glory. Whatever is in your hand He will sanctify, if you will give it to Him.

We are not to compare ourselves among ourselves, and then excuse ourselves, saying, “I cannot speak,” or “I cannot do this or that.” What is in your hand? God can use whatever is there.

When you are not sure of what God has called you to do, reach out to help somebody else, and God will reveal to you what to do. Let the perplexed one seek out others who are in perplexity and speak a word of encouragement to them. When you begin to do this, then you will no longer be in obscurity. You will be helped out of all your troubles.

God is calling us to be medical missionaries, to renew the right arm of the gospel, for medical missionary work is the gospel in practice.

Thomas Jackson is a health evangelist and Director of Missionary Education and Evangelistic Training (M.E.E.T.) Ministry in Huntingdon, Tennessee. He may be contacted by e-mail at: godsplan@meetministry.org, or by telephone at: 731-986-3518.

Restoring the Temple – Foods and Arthritis

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Millions of people suffer from painful and swollen joints associated with arthritis. In the past, many doctors told arthritis patients that dietary changes would not help them. However, this conclusion was based on older research with diets that included dairy products, oil, poultry, or meat.1,2 New research shows that foods may be a more frequent contributor to arthritis than is commonly recognized. It is clear that, at least for some people, a healthier menu is the answer.

Different Types of Arthritis

Arthritis is actually a group of different diseases. Osteoarthritis is a gradual loss of cartilage and overgrowth of bone in the joints, especially the knees, hips, spine, and fingertips. Over 20 million Americans, mostly over age 45, suffer from osteoarthritis, which seems to be the result of accumulated wear and tear. Although it can cause painful episodes, it is characterized by only transient stiffness and does not cause major interference with the use of the hands.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), which affects over 2 million people, is a more aggressive form of the disease. It causes painful, inflamed joints, which sometimes become damaged.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of medicine’s mysteries. There were no medical reports of the disease until the early 1800s. Some have suspected that a virus or bacterium may play a role, perhaps by setting off an autoimmune reaction. Genetics may also be a factor, in that it may influence susceptibility to the disease.

The Role of Diet

For years people have suspected that foods are an important factor in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. Many notice an improvement in their condition when they avoid dairy products, citrus fruits, tomatoes, eggplant, and certain other foods. . . .

A 1989 survey of over 1,000 arthritis patients revealed that the foods most commonly believed to worsen the condition were red meat, sugar, fats, salt, caffeine, and nightshade plants (e.g., tomatoes, eggplant).3 Once the offending food is eliminated completely, improvement usually comes within a few weeks. Dairy foods are one of the principle offenders, and the problem is the dairy protein, rather than the fat, so skim products are as much a problem as whole milk.4

An increasing volume of research shows that certain dietary changes do in fact help. For example, polyunsaturated oils and omega-3 supplements have a mild beneficial effect, and researchers have found that vegan diets are beneficial.5 One 2002 study looked at the influence of a very low-fat vegan diet on subjects with moderate-to-severe RA. After only four weeks on the diet, almost all measures of RA symptoms decreased significantly.6 The journal Rheumatology published a study that found a gluten-free vegan diet improved the signs and symptoms of RA.7 An uncooked vegan diet, rich in antioxidants and fiber, was shown in another study to decrease joint stiffness and pain in patients with RA.8 Some research studies have looked at fasting followed by a vegetarian or vegan diet. A review of multiple research studies concluded that this dietary treatment might be useful in the treatment of RA.9

Vegan diets dramatically reduce the overall amount of fat in the diet, and alter the composition of fats. This in turn can affect the immune processes that influence arthritis. The omega-3 fatty acids in vegetables may be a key factor, along with the near absence of saturated fat. The fact that patients also lose weight on a vegan diet contributes to the improvement.

In addition, vegetables are rich in antioxidants, which can neutralize free radicals. Oxygen free radicals attack many parts of the body and contribute to heart disease and cancer, and intensify the aging processes generally, including of the joints. Iron acts as a catalyst, encouraging the production of these dangerous molecules. Vitamins C and E, which are plentiful in a diet made of vegetables and grains, help neutralize free radicals. Meats supply an overload of iron, no vitamin C, and very little vitamin E, whereas vegetables contain more controlled amounts of iron, and generous quantities of antioxidant vitamins.

As well as being helpful in preventing arthritis, antioxidants may also have a role in reducing its symptoms. Some arthritis treatments, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, work at least in part by neutralizing free radicals. For the most part, however, vitamins and other antioxidants will be of more use in preventing damage before it occurs, rather than in treating an inflamed joint.10

A diet drawn from fruits, vegetables, grains, and beans therefore appears to be helpful in preventing and, in some cases, ameliorating arthritis. . . .

Pain-Safe Foods

Pain-safe foods virtually never contribute to arthritis or other painful conditions. These include

  • Brown rice
  • Cooked or dried fruits: cherries, cranberries, pears, prunes (but not citrus fruits, bananas, peaches or tomatoes)
  • Cooked green, yellow, and orange vegetables: artichokes, asparagus, broccoli, chard, collards, lettuce, spinach, string beans, summer or winter squash, sweet potatoes, tapioca, and taro (poi)
  • Water: plain water or carbonated forms, such as Perrier, are fine. Other beverages—even herbal teas—can be triggers.
  • Condiments: modest amounts of salt, maple syrup, and vanilla extract are usually well-tolerated. . . .

Avoid Major Arthritis Triggers

  • Dairy products*. . .
  • Meats**. . .
  • Eggs. . .
  • Coffee

*All dairy products should be avoided: skim or whole cow’s milk, goat’s milk, cheese, yogurt, etc.

**All meats should be avoided: beef, pork, chicken, turkey, fish, etc.

References

  1. Panush RS, Carter RL, Katz P, Kowsari B, Longley S, Finnie S. Diet therapy for rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis and Rheumatism 1983;26:462-71.
  2. Lithell H, Bruce A, Gustafsson IB, et al. A fasting and vegetarian diet treatment trial on chronic inflammatory disorders. Acta Derm Venereol 1983;63:397-403.
  3. Sobel D. Arthritis: What Works. New York, St. Martin’s Press, 1989.
  4. Skoldstam L, Larsson L, Lindstrom FD. Effects of fasting and lactovegetarian diet on rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 1979;8:249-55.
  5. Skoldstam L. Fasting and vegan diet in rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 1986;15:219-23.
  6. McDougall J, Bruce B, Spiller G, Westerdahl J, McDougall M. Effects of a very low-fat, vegan diet in subjects with rheumatoid arthritis. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Feb;8(1):71-5.
  7. Hafstrom I, Ringertz B, Spangberg A, von Zweigbergk L, Brannemark S, Nylander I, Ronnelid J, Laasonen L, Klareskog L. A vegan diet free of gluten improves the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: the effects on arthritis correlate with a reduction in antibodies to food antigens. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2001 Oct;40(10):1175-9.
  8. Hanninen, Kaartinen K, Rauma AL, Nenonen M, Torronen R, Hakkinen AS, Adlercreutz H, Laakso J. Antioxidants in vegan diet and rheumatic disorders. Toxicology. 2000 Nov 30;155(1-3):45-53.
  9. Muller H, de Toledo FW, Resch KL. Fasting followed by vegetarian diet in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review. Scand J Rheumatol. 2001;30(1):1-10.
  10. Merry P, Grootveld M, Lunec J, Blake DR. Oxidative damage to lipids within the inflamed human joint provides evidence of radical-mediated hypoxic-reperfusion injury. Am J Clin Nutr 1991;53:362S-9S.

©2007 Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine; all rights reserved. Reprinted by permission.

[Editor’s Note: Avoid foods that may cause an allergic reaction. Some people with arthritis cannot use nightshade vegetables such as potatoes, tomatoes, green peppers, and eggplant. Ellen White wrote: “Some persons cannot subsist upon the same foods upon which others can do well . . . .” Testimonies, vol. 2, 254.]

Health – Man Assists Nature

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There are many times God calls upon us to assist His creatures in healing. Different people from a variety of different backgrounds have learned how to use many simple healing methods in times of emergency.

The following are excerpts from a mercy story that caught my eye:

Bear Cub Severely Burned in Fire

“A black bear cub that was severely burned when a wildfire roared through her habitat is receiving a fishy treatment that officials and veterinarians hope will heal her quickly so she can be released back into the wild.

“The yearling female cub was found alone, lying in ash and unable to walk on her burned paws. … Wildlife officials who were notified of the injured animal tranquilized the cub and transported her three-and-a-half hours to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s investigations lab.

“Generally, an animal that has survived a fire and is walking around on its own should be left alone, but that wasn’t the case here. … In addition to her inability to stand or walk, there were active fires burning nearby. Her injuries were severe, so she potentially can’t run as fast [from fire].

“Dr. Jamie Peyton of the University of California, Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, arrived at the lab to assess the bear’s burns before deciding on a treatment plan in collaboration with wildlife officials. The young cub has third-degree burns on her paws and feet. …

“Earlier this year, Peyton used an experimental treatment involving sterilized tilapia skins to heal two adult black bears and a mountain lion cub that were injured in the Thomas Fire in Southern California. The fish skins were treated with sterilizing agents and used as bandages, stitched onto the healthy tissue surrounding the burns after the area was cleaned. The process removes any fish smell.

“Tilapia skin has two types of collagen that promote faster healing. It also provides direct, steady pressure to wounds, keeps bacteria out and stays on much better and longer than any type of synthetic bandage. The treatment, which is popular in Brazil, was a success. The bears became well enough to survive on their own and were returned to their natural habitat. The mountain lion cub made a similar recovery but was too young to release back into the wild, so he is now living at a wildlife rescue and care center in Sonoma County, according to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“Peyton is now treating the bear cub with the same method—the third bear to ever receive the experimental treatment. … these wild animals wouldn’t survive without our help … The experimental treatment also includes the application of antibiotics and pain salve, laser treatments, etc.

“Before applying the fish skins, Peyton said she noticed how much the little bear was licking her wounded paws and she was worried the cub would try to remove the biological bandages. But once the tilapia skins were sutured on, the bear left her wounds alone, which Peyton said is evident of pain relief.

“ ‘Animals lick and bother things that hurt them,’ she told ABC News. ‘That’s what’s really profound, that you can put this biological bandage and they leave it alone.’

“Dr. Deana Clifford of the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, who is the lead veterinarian in charge of the cub’s care, said they are optimistic that the treatment will be successful. ‘She’s very healthy other than her burned paws, but she’s also very active,’ Clifford said. ‘We’ll need to monitor her closely and adjust treatment as necessary, but we’re optimistic that she’ll make a full recovery in due time.’ ”

www.yahoo.com/gma/wildlife-officials-vets-optimistic-tilapia-skin-heal-bear-234909012–abc-news-topstories.html

We can be just as prepared for little emergencies around us by using charcoal poultices and other ways as the need requires. I hope that you will be prepared when the Lord calls upon you for help. I praise God for organizations like the above that reach out to preserve the lives of animals.

We have been told that, “As religious aggression subverts the liberties of our nation, those who would stand for freedom of conscience will be placed in unfavorable positions. For their own sake, they should, while they have opportunity, become intelligent in regard to disease, its causes, prevention, and cure. All those who do this will find a field of labor anywhere. There will be suffering ones, plenty of them, who will need help, not only among those of our own faith, but largely among those who know not the truth.” Counsels on Health, 506.

It would be wise if we became aware of simple methods in our own sphere so that we may reach out and help others in times of need.

God works in such amazing ways.

Health – Benefits of Physical Exercise

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Ellen White wrote at length about the need for and benefit of physical exercise. Consider the following counsel:

“The first and constant care of parents should be that their children may have firm constitutions, that they may be sound men and women. It is impossible to attain this object without physical exercise.” Christian Education, 16.

“Those of sedentary and literary habits should exercise the physical, even if they have no need to labor so far as means is concerned. Health should be a sufficient inducement to lead them to unite physical with their mental labor.” Ibid., 19.

“Without physical exercise, no one can have a sound constitution and vigorous health; and the discipline of well-regulated labor is no less essential to the securing of a strong and active mind and a noble character.” Ibid., 69.

“When the weather will permit, those who are engaged in sedentary occupations, should, if possible, walk out in the open air every day, summer and winter. The clothing should be suitable, and the feet well protected. Walking is often more beneficial to health than all the medicine that can be prescribed. For those who can endure it, walking is preferable to riding; for it brings all the muscles into exercise. The lungs also are forced into healthy action, since it is impossible to walk in the bracing air of a winter morning without inflating them.” Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 100, 101.

“More people die for want of exercise than from overwork; very many more rust out than wear out. In idleness the blood does not circulate freely, and the changes in the vital fluid, so necessary to health and life, do not take place. The little mouths in the skin, through which the body breathes, become clogged, thus making it impossible to eliminate impurities through that channel. This throws a double burden upon the other excretory organs, and disease is soon produced. Those who accustom themselves to exercising in the open air, generally have a vigorous circulation. Men and women, young or old, who desire health and who would enjoy life, should remember that they cannot have these without a good circulation. Whatever their business or inclinations, they should feel it a religious duty to make wise efforts to overcome the conditions of disease which have kept them in-doors.” Ibid., 101.

“Physicians often advise invalids to visit foreign countries, to go to some mineral spring, or to traverse the ocean, in order to regain health; when, in nine cases out of ten, if they would eat temperately, and engage in healthful exercise with a cheerful spirit, they would regain health, and save time and money. Exercise, and a free, abundant use of the air and sunlight,—blessings which Heaven has bestowed upon all,—would in many cases give life and strength to the emaciated invalid.” Ibid., 160.

Knowledge Today

Modern medical science supports the counsel of God’s messenger:

Regular exercise can help protect you from heart disease and stroke, high blood pressure, noninsulin-dependent diabetes, obesity, back pain, osteoporosis, and can improve your mood and help you to better manage stress.

For the greatest overall health benefits, experts recommend that you do 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic activity three or more times a week and some type of muscle strengthening activity and stretching at least twice a week. However, if you are unable to do this level of activity, you can gain substantial health benefits by accumulating 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity a day, at least five times a week.

If you have been inactive for a while, you may want to start with less strenuous activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace. Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without straining your body. Once you are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.

How Physical Activity Impacts Health

Regular physical activity that is performed on most days of the week reduces the risk of developing or dying from some of the leading causes of illness and death in the United States.

  • Reduces the risk of dying prematurely.
  • Reduces the risk of dying prematurely from heart disease.
  • Reduces the risk of developing diabetes.
  • Reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure.
  • Helps reduce blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure.
  • Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
  • Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
  • Helps control weight.
  • Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
  • Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling.
  • Promotes psychological well-being.

Specific Benefits of Physical Exercise

Heart Disease and Stroke

Daily physical activity can help prevent heart disease and stroke by strengthening your heart muscle, lowering your blood pressure, raising your high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels (good cholesterol) and lowering low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (bad cholesterol), improving blood flow, and increasing your heart’s working capacity.

Heart Disease and Stroke

Regular physical activity can reduce blood pressure in those with high blood pressure levels. Physical activity also reduces body fatness,which is associated with high blood pressure.

Noninsulin-Dependent Diabetes

By reducing body fatness, physical activity can help to prevent and control this type of diabetes.

Obesity

Physical activity helps to reduce body fat by building or preserving muscle mass and improving the body’s ability to use calories. When physical activity is combined with proper nutrition, it can help control weight and preventobesity, a major risk factor for many diseases.

Back Pain

By increasing muscle strength and endurance and improving flexibility and posture, regular exercise helps to prevent back pain.

Osteoporosis

Regular weight-bearing exercise promotes bone formation and may prevent many forms of bone loss associated with aging.

Psychological Effects

Regular physical activity can improve your mood and the way you feel about yourself. Researchers also have found that exercise is likely to reduce depression and anxiety and help you to better manage stress.

“God has blessed human beings with nerves, organs, and muscles; and they are not to be allowed to deteriorate because of inaction, but are to be strengthened and kept in health by exercise.” Child Guidance, 124.

Health – Tobacco’s Effect Upon Health

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Over a hundred years ago, God, through His messenger Ellen White, provided much counsel regarding the use of tobacco and its effect upon health.

“Tobacco, in whatever form it is used, tells upon the constitution. It is a slow poison. It affects the brain and benumbs the sensibilities so that the mind cannot discern spiritual things, especially those truths which would have a tendency to correct this filthy indulgence. Those who use tobacco in any form are not clear before God. In such a filthy practice it is impossible for them to glorify God in their bodies and spirits, which are His. And while they are using slow and sure poisons, which are ruining their health and debasing the faculties of the mind, God cannot approbate them. He may be merciful to them while they indulge in this pernicious habit in ignorance of the injury it is doing them; but when the matter is set before them in its true light, then they are guilty before God if they continue to indulge this gross appetite.” Healthful Living, 109.

“It is unpleasant, if not dangerous, to remain … in a crowded room that is not thoroughly ventilated, where the atmosphere is impregnated with the properties of liquor and tobacco. The occupants give evidence by the breath and emanations from the body that the system is filled with the poison of liquor and tobacco.

“Many infants are poisoned beyond remedy by sleeping in beds with their tobacco-using fathers. By inhaling the poisonous tobacco effluvium, which is thrown from the lungs and pores of the skin, the system of the infant is filled with poison. While it acts upon some infants as a slow poison, and affects the brain, heart, liver, and lungs, and they waste away and fade gradually; upon others it has a more direct influence, causing spasms, paralysis, and sudden death. The bereaved parents mourn the loss of their loved ones, and wonder at the mysterious providence of God, which has so cruelly afflicted them, when Providence designed not the death of these infants. They died martyrs to the filthy lust for tobacco. Every exhalation of the lungs of the tobacco slave poisons the air about him.” Ibid., 110, 111.

Science and medical research now confirm the correctness of this counsel.

Tobacco Is Bad For You

The fact that tobacco is bad for you is no secret. The Federal Cigarette Labeling and Advertising Act of 1965 (Public Law 89-92) required that the warning “Caution: Cigarette Smoking May Be Hazardous to Your Health” be placed in small print on one of the side panels of each cigarette package. [Emphasis added.]

In 1969, Congress passed the Public Health Cigarette Smoking Act (Public Law 91-222), which prohibited cigarette advertising on television and radio and required that each cigarette package contain the label “Warning: The Surgeon General Has Determined That Cigarette Smoking Is Dangerous to Your Health.” [Emphasis added.]

In 1981, the Federal Trade Commission issued a report to Congress that concluded that health warning labels had little effect on public knowledge and attitudes about smoking. As a result of this report, Congress enacted the Comprehensive Smoking Education Act of 1984 (Public Law 98-474), which required four specific health warnings on all cigarette packages and advertisements:

SURGEON GENERAL’S WARNING

  • Smoking Causes Lung Cancer, Heart Disease, Emphysema, and May Complicate Pregnancy.
  • Quitting Smoking Now Greatly Reduces Serious Risks to Your Health
  • Smoking by Pregnant Women May Result in Fetal Injury, Premature Birth, and Low Birth Weight
  • Cigarette Smoke Contains Carbon Monoxide

The Comprehensive Smokeless Tobacco Health Education Act of 1986 (Public Law 99-252) required three rotating warning labels on smokeless tobacco packaging and advertisements:

WARNING

  • This product may cause mouth cancer
  • This product may cause gum disease and tooth loss
  • This product is not a safe alternative to cigarettes

Warning labels on tobacco packages in the United States are weaker and less prominent than those of many other countries!

Despite these warnings, people continue to smoke, and new smokers adopt the habit every single day. Amazingly, smoking can still be viewed as an adult thing to do, and children continue to be influenced by this. Their parents or guardians smoke; therefore, they should smoke too if they want to be really grown up—or at least that is their perception. Smokers wish they had never smoked that first lousy cigarette and shake their heads in disbelief when they see their own young children or teenagers starting to smoke.

Tobacco can be “ingested” in more than one way. Some people chew it, others inhale it as snuff but the majority smoke it in the form of cigars and cigarettes. Regardless of how tobacco is used, it is dangerous.

When smokers inhale a single “shot” of nicotine from a cigarette, the lungs allow the nicotine to pass into the blood stream almost instantly. The smoker then feels the “hit” from the nicotine in his or her bloodstream and this is the sensation that they later crave.

Do not just assume that the inhalant is “pure” tobacco smoke either. That smoke inhaled from a cigarette contains 40+ carcinogenic substances. These are substances that have been clinically proven to cause various types of cancer. Cigarette smoke also contains 400 other toxins that can be found in rat poison, nail polish remover, and various types of wood varnish. As these carcinogens and toxins gather in the body, they begin to cause serious problems for the heart and lungs.

Smoke-Related Diseases

Of all the diseases associated with smoking, cancer is the most common. Lung cancer is the most common cancer associated with cigarette smoking, but a smoker can also get cancer of the mouth, bladder, kidney, stomach, esophagus, larynx, and pancreas. Some of these cancers can be treated, but others are 100 percent fatal.

Cancer is not the only disease that smoking causes, either directly or indirectly. Seventy-five percent of all fatal cases of emphysema and bronchitis are linked to smoking. Both of these diseases cause extreme breathing difficulties. Emphysema in particular is an extremely nasty disease, as an individual’s ability to breathe on his or her own slowly vanishes.

Smokers have dramatically shorter lives than nonsmokers. On average, a smoker will die 15 to 20 years before a nonsmoker.

Secondhand Smoke

The risk from smoking is not just limited to the smoker. The serious effects of secondary smoke are now very well-known. Smoking near others puts their health at risk also. Secondhand smoke is still loaded with chemicals and toxins as it was when first inhaled.

Secondhand smoke is a mixture of the smoke given off by the burning end of a cigarette, pipe, or cigar, and the smoke exhaled from the lungs of smokers. Secondhand smoke contains more than 250 chemicals known to be toxic or cancer causing, including formaldehyde, benzene, vinyl chloride, arsenic, ammonia, and hydrogen cyanide.

Dangers of Secondhand Smoke

Secondhand smoke causes about 3,000 deaths each year from lung cancer in nonsmokers. It also causes irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, and can also irritate the lungs, leading to coughing, excessive phlegm, and chest discomfort. Secondhand smoke has been identified as the cause of death from heart disease in thousands of adult nonsmokers.

Since their internal organs and immune systems are still developing, children are in the highest risk group. Children exposed to secondary smoke are far more vulnerable to asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (cot death), bronchitis, pneumonia, and ear infections, among other things.

Protect Yourself and Your Family

This is what you can do to protect yourself and your family from secondhand smoke:

  • Do not allow smoking in your home.
  • Choose restaurants and other places where you spend time that are smoke-free.
  • Let family, friends, and people with whom you work know that you do care if they smoke around you.
  • Ask your employer to make sure you do not have to breathe other people’s smoke at work.
  • Help people who are trying to quit smoking. Give them copies of the tract, “Just One Puff,” or Dr. John J. Grosboll’s booklet, “How to Quit Smoking,” available through the Mail Order Services Department of Steps to Life.

Resource information: www.quittersguide.com; www.cigarettewarninglabels.com; www.lungusa.org (February 2008).

The Elijah Therapy

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Depression is so prevalent among Christians that it impedes our work for the Lord. While the world is waiting for this Gospel, the devil is constantly keeping us in a depressed condition.

Depression affects the whole person. Generally, women are more depressed than men, and depression seems to especially affect those between the ages of 15 years and 24 years. Over 19 million people in the United States are depressed. “According to the World Health Organization, four of the ten leading causes of disability in the United States and other developed countries are mental disorders, including major depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia. Approximately 23 percent of American adults each year have a diagnosable mental disorder and as many as 5.4 percent of American adults have a serious mental illness.” www.hereinmaine.com February 2008.

As I travel, I find that depression is prevalent within the Christian church. I am not saying that we are never faced with discouragement, but I do not believe, unless there is something biochemically wrong, that a Christian has to be controlled by depression.

Totality of Man

There is a relationship between healing and spirituality. Being separated from God brings about depression, I believe. Anyone separated from God is mentally ill.

In the beginning, “The Lord God formed man [of] the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” Genesis 2:7. These qualities may be associated with the three qualities of which man is made—the mental, the spiritual, and the physical. When Jesus asked, in John 5:6, “Wilt thou be made whole?” He was talking about the totality of man.

There is a direct relationship between the mind and the body. Further insight into this wholeness is given in Deuteronomy 6:5: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” So, heart = mental, soul = spiritual, might = physical. In Luke 2:52, we read: “Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.” Here, favor with God = spiritual, wisdom = mental, stature = physical. As you can see, when we deal with wholeness, we deal with the totality of the individual.

Three Aspects

When a person has a physical problem, what professional person does he or she see? A physician. When a person has a mental problem, what professional person does he or she see? A psychiatrist or psychologist. When a person has a spiritual concern, what professional person does he or she see? A pastor. We realize that these professional people are important. Have you ever known the pastor, the psychiatrist or the psychologist, and the physician to agree? Usually this is not the case.

When there is a problem within the human realm—in the body, the mind, or the spirit—it should not be departmentalized. The body, mind, and spirit should not be entrusted to three different people when they do not agree with one another. If that is done, the individual is not going to improve.

Jesus was a Counselor, a Physician, and a Preacher! He addressed the whole person. An example of this is given in Matthew 9. When Jesus healed the man sick with palsy, he addressed the whole person. In verse 2, addressing the mental, Jesus said, “Son, be of good cheer.” Continuing in that same verse, He said, addressing the spiritual, “Thy sins be forgiven thee.” Then, addressing the physical, in verse 6 Jesus said to the palsied man, “Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.”

In medical missionary work, the focus has most frequently been on the physical. We recommend some herbs and juice, but we neglect the most important aspect of the individual; that is, the mental and the spiritual aspects. Many people know about herbs, juicing, hydrotherapy, and fever baths, but when it comes to understanding the total physical, spiritual, and mental makeup of an individual, as medical missionaries we tend to overlook the totality. Yes, we will pray with the individual, but we may not understand how that impacts the life of the individual.

Good Cheer

Addressing His disciples, Jesus said, “Be of good cheer.” Matthew 14:27. Fear is the opposite of good cheer. Discouragement is the devil’s most effective tool for destroying our peace. This tool may be called anesthesia—before he takes our hearts, he puts us to sleep with discouragement. If he can discourage us and get us to turn inward, rather than outward to Jesus, then he believes he can take us down with him. Even though we realize that God’s power is greater than the devil, we still allow ourselves to become discouraged.

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33. As Christians, it is a reality that we will have trouble as long as we are in this world.

Abraham is certainly an example of this as he traveled southward from the Chaldean plain. Of his experience, and others, Ellen White wrote: “Again his faith was tested. The heavens withheld their rain, the brooks ceased to flow in the valleys, and the grass withered on the plains. The flocks and herds found no pasture, and starvation threatened the whole encampment. … Trouble after trouble came upon him. …

“The Lord in His providence had brought this trial upon Abraham to teach him lessons of submission, patience, and faith—lessons that were to be placed on record for the benefit of all who should afterward be called to endure affliction. God leads His children by a way that they know not, but He does not forget or cast off those who put their trust in Him. He permitted affliction to come upon Job, but He did not forsake him. He allowed the beloved John to be exiled to lonely Patmos, but the Son of God met him there, and his vision was filled with scenes of immortal glory. God permits trials to assail His people, that by their constancy and obedience they themselves may be spiritually enriched, and that their example may be a source of strength to others.” Patriarchs and Prophets, 128, 129.

God in His providence allowed trials to come upon Abraham. Abraham did not understand the providence, but he did not look back from whence he came, and he did not allow circumstances to control his life.

Mrs. White continues:

“The very trials that task our faith most severely and make it seem that God has forsaken us, are to lead us closer to Christ, that we may lay all our burdens at His feet and experience the peace which He will give us in exchange.” Ibid., 129.

We need to become masters of our circumstances. Yes, trouble will come, but we should greet it with “good cheer,” for peace will follow.

Fear

Franklin D. Roosevelt, the thirty-second president of the United States, is credited with having said, “We have nothing to fear but fear itself.” Fear breeds upon the unknown. Disease, especially terminal disease, brings fear into and puts stress upon a person’s life.

Job said, “By the great force [of my disease] is my garment changed: it bindeth me about as the collar of my coat.” Job 30:18. Interpreting the word garment as character, Job was intimating that physical condition affects disposition.

Ellen White wrote:

“The relation that exists between the mind and the body is very intimate. When one is affected, the other sympathizes. The condition of the mind affects the health to a far greater degree than many realize. Many of the diseases from which men suffer are the result of mental depression.” The Ministry of Healing, 241. [Emphasis added.]

Mental depression and anxiety may come from things that have not been put to closure in our lives. The devil does not read our minds, but he keeps a profile on each of us. He knows the sins of our fathers, the things with which we have struggled in our lives. There are things in all our lives that we should get rid of, but we all hold on to them. Even as Christians, we have some emotional baggage that we continue to carry and with which we have not dealt.

This quotation continues: “Grief, anxiety, discontent, remorse, guilt, distrust, all tend to break down the life forces and to invite decay and death.” Ibid. Mrs. White is not saying that there is something wrong with grief. It is a natural emotion. But if we should stay in a state of grief, it would destroy us. Most of us have experienced worry, anxiety, apprehension, and unease of the mind. As Christians, these words should not be in our vocabulary, but they are because we doubt the power of God. Often we become uneasy because we anticipate the future. We do not know the outcome. We human beings like to be in control of situations. We think if we could only know what is going to happen tomorrow, we will be satisfied, but that is not the way God deals with us.

Signs of Depression

The occurrence of depression has increased over time and has impacted over 200 million people. It is estimated that almost 17 million people are affected today, and remember that depression affects the whole person.

There are at least ten signs of depression:

  1. You feel like crying more than normal.
  2. You frequently have a sense of hopelessness.
  3. You have less motivation and interest in activities.
  4. Your sleep pattern changes.
  5. You have thought that life is not worth living.
  6. You dread the beginning of a new day.
  7. You are anxious and stressed.
  8. Your eating patterns change.
  9. You have less energy than usual.
  10. You are not functioning well.

What About Elijah?

Read again the story of Elijah in I Kings 17, 18, and 19. In James 5:17, we are told that Elijah “was a man subject to like passions as we are.”

Elijah experienced the exhilarated adrenaline rush of Mount Carmel and the depressed state of having his life threatened and his mission in shambles. He focused on the circumstances and allowed them to form his decisions. He lost hope, and he wanted to die. He was self-focused—he was looking inward rather than outward to God. He also had high expectation. Now, there is nothing wrong in having expectation, but we better be sure that the expectation is of the Lord.

So, Elijah feared. He was self-centered. He was shaped by circumstance, high expectation, and he ended up with disappointment, resentment, anger, and self-pity.

Danger of Anger

One minute of anger can suppress the immune system for six hours. Anger is only one letter from danger. An unforgiving spirit, a vindictive spirit eats the heart out, and when we have an unforgiving spirit, the devil is controlling our lives.

An angry man is always full of poison. An angry, bitter, unforgiving spirit produces negative chemical by-products that are health destroying.

Almost a decade ago, scientists stayed away from dealing with faith, religion, and health, because they could not put faith in a test tube. Now, however, they are realizing that those who have a relationship with the Creator and have faith in a God recover quicker from depression than those who do not have faith.

Ephesians 4:26 counsels us, “Be ye angry, and sin not: let not the sun go down upon your wrath.”

Solutions

Solutions to depression are given in I Kings 19. Ellen White also identifies these solutions:

“As Elijah sleeps under the juniper tree, a soft touch and pleasant voice arouse him. He starts at once in his terror, as if to flee, as though the enemy who was in pursuit of his life had indeed found him. But in the pitying face of love bending over him he sees, not the face of an enemy, but of a friend. An angel has been sent with food from heaven to sustain the faithful servant of God. His voice says to Elijah: ‘Arise and eat.’ After Elijah had partaken of the refreshment prepared for him, he again slumbered. A second time the angel of God ministers to the wants of Elijah. He touches the weary, exhausted man, and in pitying tenderness says to him: ‘Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.’ Elijah was strengthened and pursued his journey to Horeb.” Testimonies, vol. 3, 291. [Emphasis added.]

Sleep.

In a depressed state, Elijah fell asleep. How does sleep deal with depression? Well, even two hours of sleep before midnight is equal to four hours of sleep after midnight. In the pineal gland, a neurotransmitter called serotonin is synthesized into melatonin as night falls. Melatonin modulates wake/sleep patterns. The duration of melatonin secretion each day is directly proportional to the length of the night. These two neurotransmitters affect us not only physiologically but psychologically. Sleep is recuperative. When we do not get enough sleep, our reasoning power is affected.

Touch.

An angel came and touched Elijah. Touch is essential to emotional support. There are children who have never experienced the security, the emotional support of a loving touch from father or mother. They have not had emotional security in their homes, and without emotional stability, they have been set up for depression.

Touch is important to healing. Of Jesus we are told: “Jesus kindly received the sick, and disease and approaching death fled at a touch of his hand.” The Spirit of Prophecy, vol. 3, 25. [Emphasis added.]

Friendship.

The worst thing to do when a person is depressed is to cast them off as a friend. We need to have an understanding and try to give our depressed friend as much emotional support, based on the Word of God, as we can give. Realize that Job’s friends, as long as they did not open their mouths, gave him support.

Nutrition.

Elijah needed food. This is not referring to “comfort food” or eating because of depression. This is referring to the fact that we need nutrients. If an individual does not eat breakfast and does not eat a balanced diet of proper foods, he or she cannot adequately strengthen the brain function to fight depression.

Exercise.

When Elijah was instructed to “Arise,” to get up he had to move. Exercise produces a hormone that food does not produce—endorphins, sometimes called “happy hormones.” Exercise also helps the neurotransmitters mentioned previously, and exercise has the capacity to help decrease stress level.

Social Interaction.

The angel once again ministered to Elijah. We are social creatures. We need moral support, emotional, and social support. This is why the Bible tells us we should not forsake the assembling of ourselves together. (Hebrews 10:25.)

Spiritual.

That “pleasant voice” spoke to Elijah. Elijah needed to hear the Word of God.

These seven aspects—sleep, touch, friendship, nutrition, exercise, social interaction, and spiritual—are all key factors in recovery from depression. When Elijah put them together, he realized that he had a work to do.

Expectation

It was mentioned previously that Elijah had high expectation. What was Elijah’s expectation when God told him to go and challenge the prophets of Baal? It was reformation. God was on his side, but he expected there would be a revival, a reformation, especially with Ahab and all Israel. That was and is what God wants. However, Elijah did not see the bigger picture. There was other work God had for Elijah to do, so when that reformation did not take place, as Elijah perceived it, he became depressed.

Have you ever been in a situation such as this? You have had an expectation, but it was not met the way you thought it would be, and you were let down? You might not go into depression, but you may become discouraged.

Our expectation must be of the Lord. What we expect of people must be through the eyes of God. If we see that, then we are not going to be let down. People should be trustworthy and honest, based on Christian principles, but in this world, to keep from having blood pressure problems and depression, we should put our expectation in God.

A Work To Do

There is a therapy. We know the Elijah therapy as the third angel’s message. Elijah represents the people of God in the last days.

We have a work to do. As we prepare to reach out to the community, God wants His people to be ready to reach out to the community with power, not being controlled by circumstances. We need to shift our focus from ourselves onto the great work that is before us.

The best way to beat depression or discouragement is to go to work for the Lord.

Thomas Jackson is a Health Evangelist and Director of Missionary Education and Evangelistic Training (M.E.E.T.) Ministry in Huntingdon, Tennessee. He may be contacted by e-mail at: godsplan@meetministry.org or by telephone at: 731-986-3518.