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Nature – The Northern Flicker

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Northern Flickers are large, brown woodpeckers with handsome black-scalloped plumage. Although it can climb up the trunks of trees and hammer on wood like other woodpeckers, the Northern Flicker prefers to spend much time on the ground finding its food. A portion of its diet consists of ants and beetles, and it can often be found in open, sandy areas that are heavily populated by ant colonies.

Approaching the ant mound, the flicker vigorously disturbs the doorway of the ant colony. The “doorway” tunnels underground and branches into many chambers. The ants, protective of their larvae, respond to the threat of intrusion viciously attacking insects and worms, inflicting fatal bites killing their formidable enemies. Instinctively aware of the ants’ response, the flicker disrupts the colony, drawing the ants out of their confines. Its long, blade-like tongue, coated with a special, sticky fluid and impervious to the bite of the ant, is inserted into the ant hole and, being mistaken for an intruding worm, is attacked. The sticky coating entangles the ants and the tongue is quickly removed, and the flicker devours the succulent insects and then reinserts the tongue into the tunnel. With no way for ants to escape, the flicker is able to annihilate an entire ant colony or inflict such damage to the population that tremendous effort is required for the ants to recover.

This woodpecker is able to extend its probing, sticky tongue up to three inches beyond its beak. This allows it to collect and consume huge quantities of ants in a short period of time. Besides ants, the Northern Flicker eats a variety of insects such as crickets, beetles, grasshoppers and caterpillars that are found on the ground, under debris. It also eats a variety of fruits, vegetables and berries.

The female determines the final location of their nest. If no available hollow is found, the paired flickers choose a decayed, deciduous tree, chipping and cleaning a suitable site. Carefully they remove the chips and deposit them a considerable distance from the nest to avoid it being exposed. Both the male and female share the responsibility of construction, incubation and also the feeding of the hatchlings. As they mature, survival skills are taught by hiding food for them to retrieve.

Every living thing participates in God’s divine plan, depending on Him for survival. From the least creature to God’s crowning act—Man, who was created in the image of God—all are to do His bidding in his own unique way. Instinctively birds obey, filling the air with music, fertilizing the ground, sometimes pollinating plants and at other times spreading seeds, clothing the earth in green. God said of His people, “This people I have formed for Myself; They shall declare My praise.” Isaiah 43:21.

“God has given you brain power to use. The wants of the believers and the necessities of unbelievers are to be carefully studied, and your labors are to meet their necessities. … You are a servant of the living God.” Evangelism, 650.

Children’s Story – A Mother’s Voice

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Since the prevailing Indian troubles commenced, an Indian camp was captured, together with a number of prisoners, including squaws, and some half dozen white captives, boys and girls from five to twelve years of age. Word was sent throughout the country, inviting those who had lost children to come to the camp and identify, if possible, their children, as none of them could give any account of who their parents were or where they were taken from, so young were they when they were taken captive by the Indians. Numbers of parents went to the camp—more than there were children—and, of course, many of them returned with heavy hearts at being unable to find their lost ones. Among the number who went hundreds of miles to the camp was a mother who had lost two children several years before—a boy and a girl, one three and the other five years old.

Efforts were made to persuade her not to go; as so long a time had elapsed, it was certain she could not identify her children even if they stood before her. But she could not rest; she must go and go she did. On arriving at the encampment she found the captives ranged in line for inspection. She looked at them first from a distance, her anxious heart pounding in her bosom. But she did not see her children; at least she saw nothing in the group that bore the slightest resemblance to her baby boy and girl, as they had looked when playing about her doorstep. She looked long and steadily at them, as her heart began to sink and grow heavy in her bosom. At last with tears and sobs she withdrew, but when some paces off, she stopped and turned about quickly, as apparently a thought had occurred to her. Drying her eyes she broke forth in a sweet hymn she had been wont to sing to her children as a lullaby. Scarce a word had been uttered, when two of the captives, a boy and girl, rushed from the line exclaiming, “Mamma! Mamma!” The mother went home perfectly satisfied that she had found her long lost children.

This is a true story. Those children, even though they had been separated from their mother for a long time, remembered the tune their mother used to sing to them when they were little and recognized her voice. Because they remembered, they were able to go home with her.

Jesus always puts a song or a word in our hearts when we are faithful to spend time listening to Him. It may be a song like “Jesus Loves Me,” or a scripture verse that you have learned by memory. Philippians 4:13, NKJV is a good one to memorize: “I can do all things through Christ Who strengthens me,” and “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, yes I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” Isaiah 41:10, NKJV. God loves to hear you repeat His Word.

God loves His children more than a mother loves her children, and He always wants you to be able to know Him through song and verse.

The Signs of the Times, August 28, 1879.

Keys to the Storehouse – Character Under Pressure

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We live in a world of uncertainty with much pressure and/or stress. It is how we respond at such times that reveals just who controls our character; is it Christ or Satan? History reveals that during the Reformation, under almost indescribable persecution, Christ upheld His faithful ones, giving them the resolve to stand firm in their faith no matter what the consequences were. “The procession halted, the house was entered, the family were dragged forth and chained, and the terrible company went forward in search of fresh victims. … It was a reign of terror.” D’Aubigne, History of the Reformation in Europe in the Time of Calvin, b. 4, ch. 10.” The Great Controversy, 226.

“The victims were put to death with cruel torture, it being specially ordered that the fire should be lowered in order to prolong their agony. But

  • they died as conquerors.
  • Their constancy was unshaken,
  • their peace unclouded.
  • Their persecutors, powerless to move their inflexible firmness, felt themselves defeated.

“ ‘The scaffolds were distributed over all the quarters of Paris, and the burnings followed on successive days, the design being to spread the terror of heresy by spreading the executions.

  • The advantage, however, in the end, remained with the gospel.
  • All Paris was enabled to see what kind of men the new opinions [new faith] could produce.
  • There was no pulpit like the martyr’s pile.
  • The serene joy that lighted up the faces of these men as they passed along … to the place of execution,
  • their heroism as they stood amid the bitter flames,
  • their meek forgiveness of injuries, transformed, in instances not a few, anger into pity, and hate into love, and pleaded with resistless eloquence in behalf of the gospel.’—Wylie, b. 13, ch. 20.” Ibid., 226.

Compared to these heroes of faith, how do you respond under the little pressures and stresses of each day? We are told that all Paris saw the reflection of Christ’s character shining through the flames. These innocent souls forgave their persecutors in meekness with hearts that were turned from anger and hate to love and pity. That transformation of character is available to all who have that desire and ask. There is no limit to the witness of the one in whom Christ lives. Then, when times of pressure and/or stress come upon us, it is the character of Christ that shines through and touches those around us because He has been transforming us ever so gradually.

Do you want that character that will stand strong in the flames of hate and that will reflect Christ at all times? Ask for it! Ask for the Holy Spirit to come into your life and make that transformation. God is waiting for such a request.

“God knows you by name. He knows every action of your life. …

“God knows every thought, every purpose, every plan, every motive.” My Life Today, 291.

The above group of people had the Holy Spirit working in their hearts daily and when the enemy came in like a flood, the Lord fulfilled His promise in each of them. “I am with you alway.” Matthew 28:20.

What a fulfillment!

Father: I plead for Your Holy Spirit to take total control of my heart. Bestow upon me a constancy today that will remain unshaken and a peace that will remain unclouded through all the pressures and stresses in my life so that Your character will be reflected no matter what may befall me. Amen.

Health – Potential Hydrogens (pH) – Important for Health

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“I will praise Thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are Thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well.” Psalm 139:14.

Any imbalances in our bodies causes dis-ease. Any failure to follow the health laws causes an imbalance in one or more areas. That imbalance or dis-ease may not be experienced right away, but it will manifest itself in one way or another sooner or later. It gives God the glory to continually learn about our bodies to gain a deeper understanding of this intricate piece of machinery in which we live.

One important aspect of health is the body’s pH balance. There are many articles written on this very complicated subject. But I would like to share with you an excerpt from the book, Beating Cancer with Nutrition, by Patrick Quillin, PhD, R.D., CNS., with Noreen Quillin, Nutrition Times Press, Inc., Tulsa, Oklahoma, 234, 235. This particularly refers to cancer patients; however, this information is interesting to learn a little more about pH balance. He says:

“Acid alkaline balance (7.41 ideal in human veins) brought about by:

  • Proper breathing
  • Exercise (carbonic buffer from carbon dioxide in blood)
  • Diet (plant foods elevate pH, animal foods and sugar reduce pH)
  • Water (adequate hydration improves pH)
  • Other agents, such as cesium chloride, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate

“Cancer is acidic (low pH) tissue. [Newell, K, et al., Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences, vol. 90, no. 3, p. 1127, February 1993.] It is clear from all human physiology textbooks that pH in the blood, saliva, urine and other areas is a critical factor for health. Blood pH is usually 7.35-7.45 with 7.41 thought to be ideal. Acceptable pH for saliva is 6.0-7.5, stomach 1.0-3.5, colon 5.0-8.4 and urine 4.5-8.4. Most foods influence pH—pushing toward either acid or alkaline. Clinicians will spend much time adjusting parenteral feedings to achieve a proper pH in the blood. [Parenteral is a route of administration that involves piercing the skin or mucous membrane.] Meanwhile, there have been many alternative health books that attempt to treat various diseases by adjusting the body pH via the diet.

“Potential hydrogens, or pH, refer to the acid or alkaline nature of a chemical. If you mix a mild acid, like vinegar, with a mild alkaline substance, like baking soda, then the resulting reaction produces a salt—they neutralize one another by exchanging hydrogens. Just about everything that goes in your mouth can alter pH, including oxygen. The acidic pH of cancer cells also decreases the oxygen-carrying capacity of the surrounding blood so that tissue can become somewhat anaerobic—which are perfect conditions for cancer to thrive. Deep breathing has an alkalizing effect on the blood. An alkalizing diet of lots of plant food also helps to encourage removal of toxic heavy metals.

“The macrobiotic book claims that pH adjustment is one of the more crucial objectives of their diet. [Aihara, H., ACID & ALKALINE, Macrogiotic Foundation, Oroville, CA, 1971.] Yet, I have worked with a few cancer patients who got worse on the macrobiotic program. … Not everyone will thrive on the same diet. … It appears that some people are prone toward extreme acid or alkaline metabolism. For these people on the edge of acceptable biological pH, diet provides a counterbalance to bring serum pH back toward normal. Think of sailing a small boat where you may have to use your body as a counterbalance to prevent the boat from being tipped over by the wind. If your metabolism is in jeopardy of ‘tipping over’ toward extreme pH, then diet and breathing become your counterbalances that keep metabolism upright.

“While this area may be absolutely essential for some cancer patients, a trial and error method may be the only way to find out which direction your pH needs adjusting. If your condition improves on the macrobiotic program, then you are pushing your pH in the right direction. If your condition worsens on the macrobiotic program, then you must push your pH in the opposite direction.

“About 8 percent of the population must have acid forming foods to counterbalance their extremely alkalotic pH. Some people can eat anything they want and their internal mechanisms compensate to find an acceptable pH. For many people, an alkalizing diet (toward the left) will help to neutralize their acidifying tendencies, which can invite cancer.

“Venous pH is the most accurate indicator of your overall body pH. Yet blood tests are invasive, expensive and not practical for regular use. A rough indicator of your body pH is your saliva and urinary pH. You can purchase Nitrazine paper from your local druggist and follow the directions for measuring saliva or urine pH. Test your saliva at least one hour after any food or drink.”

This little bit of information by Dr. Patrick Quillin on pH is understood by very few people. I found it to be enlightening.

It is not just through diet that you balance your pH. Balance includes deep breathing, diet, exercise and water. This should alert each one of us that these recommendations are included in following the eight health laws: Nutrition, exercise, water, sunshine, temperance, air, rest and trust in God. It is up to each of us, to the best of our ability, to preserve our health.

This earth is filled with disease and we have a daily battle with which to contend. Let us always ask God to guide and protect us as we battle on by His grace.

To God be all of the glory.

Nature – The Whistling Swan

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After the cold months of winter pass and the northern lakes begin to thaw as the snow melts and the ice breaks apart, flocks of birds gather in preparation for their flight to their northern breeding grounds. Tundra Swans have high-pitched honking calls and sound similar to a black goose (Branta). They are particularly vocal when foraging in flocks on their wintering grounds; any arriving or leaving of other birds will elicit a bout of loud excited calling from its fellows while busily preening their feathers. They eat heavily to store layers of fat in preparation for their long migration flight to the northern Polar Regions.

This flight would be more hurried than its fall migration, for the whistling swan, the American race of the Tundra Swan,  will want to begin building its nest as early as possible. Its nesting season is short, and if the swans are to have a successful brood, they must lay, hatch and rear their young before the water freezes and winter snow once again begins to fall.

Swans do not usually associate with other birds but fly only with their own species. Their migratory flocks may be as large as five hundred in number. At the proper time the flock slowly lifts into the air with strong, steady beats of their outstretched wings. The large body of the whistling swan lifts steadily into the air as it gradually picks up speed.

This swan is aided in flight by two advantages. First, it can fly so high that it literally becomes invisible from the ground, attaining altitudes of six thousand feet. With this advantage the swan can fly above mountains and turbulent storms. A second and greater advantage is the swan’s ability to fly as a flock in V-formation. Its speed would be drastically reduced were it not for the flock’s ability to fly in this manner. The whistling swan is capable of attaining speeds of up to one hundred miles per hour.

It has been calculated that twenty-five birds flying in V-formation are able to travel seventy percent farther than one swan flying by itself. This tremendous increase in distance is possible because the lead swan “breaks the trail” for the others that follow. Consequently, air resistance is lessened as each swan benefits from the up wash of the widening wake of the one preceding it. Less total lift power is required.

The lead swan has the most difficult task. When it becomes tired, it drops back and a new leader takes over, giving it an opportunity to rest. For some swans the great northerly return flight may be as long as three thousand miles. Because of the initiative of one swan in taking the lead, the swans are able to relieve the pressure from others in the flock and greatly increase the speed at which they travel. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, Inc., Rand McNally and Company, 1976.

“Workers for God will meet with turmoil, discomfort, and weariness. At times, uncertain and distracted, the heart is almost in despair. When this restless nervousness comes, the worker should stop and rest. Christ invites him, ‘Come … apart, … and rest a while’ (Mark 6:31). ‘He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength. … They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; they shall walk, and not faint’ (Isaiah 40:29–31).” Lift Him Up, 263.

 

Food – Kale, the Best of Greens

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Rising immensely in popularity over the last year, kale has changed the diets of healthy eaters around the world. Low in calories, high in iron, and filled with powerful antioxidants, this vegetable has it all. And while kale’s vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin K help your body stay healthy, it also serves as a delicious addition to a variety of dishes.

The beautiful leaves of the kale plant provide an earthy flavor and more nutritional value for fewer calories than almost any other food around. Although it can be found in markets throughout the year, it is in season from the middle of winter through the beginning of spring when it has a sweeter taste and is more widely available. It is easy to grow and can grow in colder temperatures where a light frost will produce especially sweet kale leaves.

Kale is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the Brassica family, a group of vegetables including cabbage, collards, and Brussels sprouts that have gained recent widespread attention due to their health-promoting, sulfur-containing phytonutrients. There are several varieties of kale; these include curly kale, ornamental kale, and dinosaur (or Lacinato or Tuscan) kale, all of which differ in taste, texture, and appearance. The scientific name for kale is Brassica oleracea.

Curly kale has ruffled leaves and a fibrous stalk and is usually deep green in color. It has a lively pungent flavor with delicious bitter peppery qualities.

Ornamental kale is a more recently cultivated species that is oftentimes referred to as salad savoy. Its leaves may either be green, white, or purple and its stalks coalesce to form a loosely knit head. Ornamental kale has a more mellow flavor and tender texture.

Dinosaur kale is the common name for the kale variety known as Lacinato or Tuscan kale. It features dark blue-green leaves that have an embossed texture. It has a slightly sweeter and more delicate taste than curly kale.

Look for kale with firm, deeply colored leaves and moist hardy stems. Kale should be displayed in a cool environment since warm temperatures will cause it to wilt and will negatively affect its flavor. The leaves should look fresh, be unwilted, and be free from signs of browning, yellowing, and small holes. Choose kale with smaller-sized leaves since these will be more tender and have a more mild flavor than those with larger leaves.

To store, place kale in a plastic storage bag removing as much of the air from the bag as possible. Store in the refrigerator where it will keep for five days. The longer it is stored, the more bitter its flavor becomes. Do not wash kale before storing because exposure to water encourages spoilage.

Children’s Story – Before the Fact

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Mrs. Lois A. Calkins knew what the historian meant when he said, “The history of the world is the record of man in quest for his daily bread and butter.” When she was growing up in Southern Minnesota with her father very old and feeble, her mother’s health was also poor, and two younger brothers who were not old enough to do much in the way of farm work, their “quest” was quite difficult. Especially with what happened one early autumn.

Clouds of grasshoppers swept down on the entire area and deposited their eggs. A reward was offered for the carcasses of these insects, and many bushels of the grasshoppers were destroyed. But the battle seemed useless. The prospects for the Calkins to have food for the coming year were very, very dark.

“Our family had not been Christians too long before this first real test of faith came to us. We knew that when those eggs were hatched in the spring there wasn’t a chance for any garden to grow. And since we were solely dependent on that little garden for our own food and for some income from the sale of vegetables, we were quite concerned.

“We studied the Bible the best we could. We prayed a great deal about the Lord helping us like He did the people of Bible times. We felt that there was no reason why He wouldn’t help us as much today as He did then. So, in our own feeble way, we tried to claim His promises.”

That spring found every inch of ground crawling with the newly hatched insects. Every farmer within a hundred miles’ radius was infested with myriads and myriads of the destructive pests. All hopes for gardens were given up. Some were planning to move off and give up farming.

“My father hired one of the neighbors to come over with his plow and turn over our garden ground. The neighbor thought we were the most foolish people on the face of the earth.

“ ‘You’re throwing your hard-earned money away,’ he repeated over and over again as he plowed our land.”

The following day the three children, under the supervision of the father, went out into the garden to plant seeds.

“We had to push away the insects that had come right back to the newly plowed ground as we planted the seeds. I must say that almost every time I pushed some seeds into the dirt, I prayed for the Lord to make them grow.

“The grasshoppers were so strange. When they were fully-grown they hopped way up into the air and flapped their wings; it sounded just like hail falling all around us. Then when they were quiet, they would lay in big heaps everywhere, five or six deep.

“All of the farmers around had not planted much. Some none. But those who did plant anything had it immediately chewed to pieces as it first burst out of the ground. An occasional stalk of corn could be seen sticking up here and there, but never more than seven or eight inches tall.

“One day our garden seemed to have turned green overnight. Buds had burst the sod all through the area. I ran out and looked at the growing vegetation. Everything everywhere else was eaten almost as fast as it came out of the ground. But our garden seemed like holy ground!”

The Calkins family spent even more time in prayer after the garden started growing than before. Their prayers were a mixture of petition and thanksgiving. Only the grace and mercy of God would allow these crucially needed plants to grow in the midst of devouring insects. And that is exactly what happened!

“It was so weird. All the leaves on the trees in our yard had been consumed. It was spring and they looked like they were in the midst of deep winter, so bare and lifeless. Yet, the garden was so beautifully green and prosperous. Neighbors and folks from miles and miles away started coming by to look at this strange paradise.”

The Calkins’ farm had a bumper crop that year. Though it does not seem like a gigantic amount in comparison with crops being produced through mechanical assistance, it was overwhelming to them.

“We harvested fifty bushels of beets from a very small patch. There were eighty-three very large squashes that came from just three vines! Everything we planted came up in abnormally large quantities and of the highest quality. The crop was large and excellent.”

The Calkins filled their cellar with the finest vegetables they had ever seen. Neighbors who had been able to set aside some money came to the Calkins to buy produce. They gave a large amount to friends and neighbors who, like themselves, had not been able to save any money for any type of crisis.

“When folks came to our place to get their produce, they would all say that Someone was surely looking after us. Others went so far as to say that it was definitely a miracle. But, one particular neighbor put his finger right on the reason and cause.

“ ‘Calkins,’ he said to my dad, ‘I heard a minister once say that God would “rebuke the devourer” for believing folks. Most of the church folks ’round about these parts feel that this is what has happened. I guess you folks are paying God the tithe.’ ”

“My dad stood to his feet and looked the friend right in the eye.

“ ‘Do you know where the Bible says that if a person pays the tithe God’ll do that … “rebuke the devourer” … like you said?’

“ ‘I think it’s in Malachi, but I’m not sure,’ he said as he made his way to the door, picking up a basket of vegetables on the way, ‘Yeah, I’m sure it’s in Malachi.’

“Needless to say, it wasn’t long after the farmer had left the house that my dad was thumbing through his Bible for the book of Malachi.”

“ ‘I’ve found it! Come here and listen to this,’ he said as he waved us all together around the kitchen table. ‘It’s Malachi 3:10–12. “Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse … and prove Me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts … I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground. … And all nations shall call you blessed.” ’

“We had another prayer meeting, right then and there. We thanked God for His promise that we had just read. ‘And just think,’ Dad said, ‘He did all this even before we knew that He had already promised to do it!’ ”

W.A. Spicer and Helen Spicer Menkel, The Hand That Still Intervenes, Concerned Publications, Inc., Clermont, Florida, 1982, 37–41.

Health – Aging and the Brain

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Several studies have shown a link between the number of infections throughout a person’s life and later development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

As we age, our immune systems become less efficient in combating infections. This is mainly due to poor nutrition and can be corrected simply by improvements in diet.

Nutrients That Prevent Alzheimer’s

Resveratrol, one of the active components of grapes, has been shown to reduce the accumulation of a substance called amyloid beta in the brain, and to suppress inflammation of the brain by inhibiting microglial activation—which is the mechanism for amyloid production. (Ono, K., et. al., J Neurosci 2004; 75: 742-750; Bi, X.L., et. al., Int Immunopharmacology 2005; 5: 185-193.)

Amyloid is the brain “crud” that accumulates in the brains of people who suffer from Alzheimer’s disease. Another beneficial plant flavonoid is called baicalein, an extract of a plant called skullcap, which has been shown to protect brain cells from damage by toxins and excitotoxicity (the process of nerve damage through continuous stimulation), as well as safeguarding the brain during strokes. Skullcap powerfully protects against free radical creation and lipid peroxidation in the brain, and reduces microglia-induced brain inflammation and immunoexcitotoxicity (excitotoxicity triggered by the body’s immune response). (Uchida, K., et. al., J Biol Chem 1999; 2234-2342; Kobuchi, H., et. al., Am J Physiol 1999; 277: C403-411.) A number of plant flavonoids also chelate iron, which means they bind the iron atoms, preventing the formation of free radicals, and thus protecting the brain. Flavonoids with this property include:

  • Curcumin
  • Green and white tea flavonoids
  • Quercetin
  • Hesperidin
  • Luteolin
  • Baicalein

This is important property because free iron in specific locations in the aging brain is associated with neurodegenerative diseases, especially Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease, and plays a major role in stroke damage. These flavonoids do not interfere with normal iron functions. Luteolin, found in high concentrations in celery and parsley not only reduces microglial activation, it also switches microglia to a protective state, a mechanism that is impaired with Alzheimer’s disease and possibly chronic brain damage associated with multiple brain injuries in sports (chronic traumatic encephalopathy). (Blaylock, R. and Maroon, J., Sur Neurol Int 2011.)

Another study found that both apigenin (another flavonoid) and luteolin protect the brain by reducing microglial activation. (Resai-Zadeh, K., et. al., J Neuroinflammation 2008; 5: 41.) In addition, there is strong evidence that activation of microglia in the aging brain is playing a central role in a number of neurological disorders, including strokes, brain infections, vaccine damage, brain trauma, and neurodegenerative diseases. (Dilger, R.N., et. al., J Leukoc Biol 2008; 84; 932-939.)

As we age, the microglia in the brain become progressively more activated. In people with Alzheimer’s dementia, there is widespread, intense microglial activation. A number of flavonoids control brain inflammation by suppressing microglial activation; these include curcumin, quercetin, fisetin, EGCG, and resveratrol.

Excitotoxicity and Magnesium Levels

As we grow older the brain becomes progressively more inflamed. With age-related memory loss and Alzheimer’s dementia, the degree of inflammation increases dramatically.

Brain inflammation is caused by microglial activation; these immune cells are also the source of glutamate and other excitotoxins. Magnesium, which is abundant in fruits, vegetables, and nuts, suppresses excitotoxicity and inflammation.

Meanwhile, because of their high level of phosphoric acid, soft drinks deplete magnesium and play a major role in the widespread magnesium deficiency seen in the Western world.

Many prescription medications and birth control pills on the market also severely deplete magnesium.

Studies conducted by Dr. Mark Mattson and his co-workers have shown that physical exercise stimulates brain cells to release higher levels of growth factors (neurotrophins), which protect the brain from damage, heal existing injuries, prevent depression, and promote better memory and learning capacity. (Boyle, P.A., et. al., Arch Gen Psychiatry 2010; 67: 304-310.)

Mattson has also studied the effect of caloric restriction on brain protection, and demonstrated that reducing one’s intake of calories significantly reduces brain aging and stimulates the release of neurotrophic brain growth factors.

Caloric restriction also increases antioxidant enzyme levels and reduces excitotoxicity. (Mattson, M.P. and Ann, N.Y., Acad Sci 2008; 1144: 97-112.)

Of course, many people find it difficult to reduce their caloric intake enough to obtain these beneficial effects. However, new studies have shown that fasting just one day a week has the same beneficial effect; adding resveratrol to the diet has also been shown to be effective.

Recent studies have shown that daily physical exercise also increases a person’s thinking ability and reduces the risk of early onset dementia. (Wang, L., et. al., Arch Inter Med 2006; 166: 115-1120.)

Moderate exercise—such as brisk walking, using light weights or exercise machines—is sufficient for the elderly. Engagement in social events, reading, learning new topics, and participating in church functions are also important.

If we exercise regularly, fast once a week, and engage in regular intellectual activities, the benefits for brain health will be significant. Adding good nutrition—including eating a variety of flavonoids—will tremendously magnify those health benefits.

Source: Blaylock Wellness Report, November 2011.

Food for Life – July 1996

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“To reach the people, wherever they are, and whatever their position or condition, and to help them in every way possible—this is true ministry. But such effort you may win hearts and open a door of access to perishing souls. “In all your work remember that you are bound up with Christ, a part of the great plan of redemption. The love of Christ, in a healing, life-giving current, is to flow through your life. As you seek to draw others within the circle of His love, let the purity of your language, the unselfishness of your service, the joyfulness of your demeanor, bear witness to the power of His grace. Give to the world so pure and righteous a representation of Him, that men shall behold Him in His beauty . . .

“In all our associations it should be remembered that in the experience of others there are chapters sealed from mortal sight. On the pages of memory are sad histories that are sacredly guarded from curious eyes. There stand registered long, hard battles with trying circumstances, perhaps troubles in the home life, that day by day weaken courage, confidence, and faith. Those who are fighting the battle of life at great odds may be strengthened and encouraged by little attentions that cost only a loving effort. To such the strong, helpful grasp of the hand by a true friend is worth more than gold or silver. Words of kindness are as welcome as the smile of angels.” Ministry of Healing, 156, 158.

“True temperance teaches us to dispense entirely with everything hurtful, and to use judiciously that which is healthful.” CG, 398.

“There is everywhere a work to be done for those who through intemperance have fallen. In the midst of churches, religious institutions, and professedly Christian homes, many of the youth are choosing the path to destruction. Through intemperate habits they bring upon themselves disease, and through greed to obtain money for sinful indulgence they fall into dishonest practices . . . self-indulgence is not only a moral sin, but a physical disease . . . In dealing with the victims of intemperance we must remember that we are not dealing with sane men, but with those who for the time being are under the power of a demon . . .

“Many have to battle against strong hereditary tendencies to evil. Unnatural cravings, sensual impulses, were their inheritance from birth. These must be carefully guarded against. Within and without, good and evil are striving for the mastery. Those who have never passed through such experiences cannot know the almost overmastering power of appetite or the fierceness of the conflict between habits of self-indulgence and the determination to be temperate in all things. Over and over again the battle must be fought . . .

“Those who put their trust in Christ are not to be enslaved by any hereditary or cultivated habit or tendency. Instead of being held in bondage to the lower nature, they are to rule every appetite and passion. God has not left us to battle with evil in our own finite strength. Whatever may be our inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong, we can overcome through the power that He is ready to impart.” Ministry of Healing, 171–176.

July Recipe:

Cashew Pie Crust

1 1/2 C. Quick Oats (ground fine in a blender)

1 1/2 C. Raw Cashews (ground fine in a blender)

2 T. Date Sugar or Fruit Source

1/2 t. Sea Salt

4–5 T. Cashew or Soy Milk

Mix thoroughly in a dish to the right consistency, and then roll between waxed paper the size of of your pie plate. If this is to be pre-baked, place in oven at 350 degress for 10–15 minutes. This recipe makes two pie crusts.

The End

Reporting from England

by

My Experiences

In the early eighties the Lord sought me out and brought me from a life of crime into a conversion experience. For many years I had been a professional drug-dealer/smuggler and for at least twelve years I was using drugs on a daily basis. Thanks to the witnessing efforts of members of the Seventh-day Adventist church I was baptized into the church in 1983. For the next seven years the Lord led me through a time of spiritual growth and tuition until in 1990 my wife and I responded to a call to enter the mission field.

In January 1991 we left with our two children to follow the call to work as missionaries in Hungary and other parts of Eastern Europe. While in Hungary the work involved preaching the gospel in SDA churches and witnessing, the saving grace of Jesus Christ in schools, hospitals, prisons, community centers, and anywhere there was an opportunity. Much of the work involved speaking with drug addicts and alcoholics and introducing them to the true gospel. Evangelistic meetings were held not only in Hungary, but also Romania and (the then) Czechoslovakia, plus there were opportunities to speak to a wider audience through newspaper, radio, and television interviews in Hungary, Yugoslavia, and France. During this time the Lord also provided many opportunities to pursue my research into “the Mystery Babylon” of Revelation 17 and the influence of the “New Age Movement.” This research began in 1981 and drew on many aspects of my life “before Christ.” It seemed as if the Lord had been preparing me for this work from my youth. This resulted in a series of tracts “The Prophetic Look” series and a booklet “Unveiling the Mystery Babylon Using Biblical and Historical Evidence.”

Following the outbreak of the war in Yugoslavia I had the opportunity to travel into that country twice and the Lord opened the doors so that I was able to take the truth of “the great controversy between Christ and Satan” to many members of the media and to be able to confront members of the governments within the federation on the role of the Vatican in the war and modern politics. During the visits there I was able to gather much research material, which, when added to material gathered in Israel, Argentina and Peru, resulted in the video, “The Vatican and Fascism.” This video was produced in the USA after giving this presentation in several States and taking part in Religious Liberty meetings in both the USA and Jamaica. It was a follow-up from a two previous videos: “The Future Plans of the New Age Movement” and “The Vatican’s Conspiracy for World Domination.”

Since that time my research has continued into the role that the Roman Catholic church has played in history, culminating in the (so far) five-part series: “The Vatican and Politics” and the two-part “Religion of 666,” which traces the roots of the number 666 and identifies the true meaning of Revelation 13:18. These presentations have also been given in England, France, Germany, Italy, and Holland as well as Eastern Europe. Unfortunately in 1993 my wife and children had to return to England and were not able to return to be with me on the mission field. Understandably this placed quite a strain on all members of the family, which was resolved by my return to England in January, 1995. Being loathe to work for anyone else and after prayerful consideration, my wife and I decided to trust in His guidance and continue the work that He set before us, from England.

Since that time He has continued to provide for us and we have followed His leading. There have been evangelistic meetings in Australia, England, Denmark, Holland, and Germany as well as research undertaken in various other places. We now produce a newsletter on an irregular basis which focuses on the research undertaken and updates on previous topics.

 

Statement of the Aims of this Ministry:

(1) The primary aim of this ministry is to lead souls to Christ.

(2) As loyal members of God’s Seventh-day Adventist Church we recognize that we are members of the church that is destined to fulfill Christ’s commission to “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:19, 20.

(3) We also recognize that this commission is to be fulfilled through the preaching of the Three Angels’ Messages of Revelation 14, namely, that we should preach the everlasting gospel “unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.” Revelation 14:6.

(4) We recognize that each of the Three Angels has it’s own peculiar aspect to its message.

First Angel — a call to worship the God of creation, to glorify Him through faith and obedience to His commandments and proclaim the fact that the day of judgment has begun. Revelation 14:7.

Second Angel — to identify Babylon and expose her corruption of not only God’s plan of redemption but also His plan for His church. Revelation 14:8.

Third Angel — to warn the world of the dangers of straying from God’s way and the vital importance of God’s original Ten Commandments in His plan (particularly the fourth commandment as the sign of allegiance to Him). Revelation 14:9, 10.