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Don’t Faint: Daily Bible Study #208

Welcome back to our daily Bible study! We’re joining Pastor Jesse Sisk at Smyrna Christian Church in Kokomo, Indiana. You can find his special Bible studies playlist on YouTube along with many other wonderful lessons. I enjoy studying with Pastor Jesse because he takes a traditional approach, going through the Bible chapter by chapter and verse by verse. As always, remember to study God’s Word independently. Use pastors’ teachings as a guide, but don’t rely solely on any one person’s interpretation. Seek your own understanding and discernment in Scripture. Have a great day and God bless!

Psyllium Husk

Psyllium Husk: A Comprehensive Overview

Psyllium husk is a soluble fiber derived from the seeds of the Plantago ovata plant. This natural laxative and fiber supplement has been used for centuries to promote digestive health and regular bowel movements. The husk contains a unique blend of soluble and insoluble fibers that work synergistically to provide numerous health benefits.

Digestive Health Benefits

Psyllium husk is highly effective in relieving constipation by softening stool, increasing bulk, and stimulating bowel movements. The soluble fiber in psyllium husk absorbs water, forming a gel-like substance that helps to soften and lubricate the stool, making it easier to pass. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who experience chronic constipation, as it can help to regulate bowel movements and prevent straining during defecation. Additionally, psyllium husk can help to reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), such as abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel irregularity, by reducing inflammation and improving gut motility.

Cholesterol Reduction and Blood Sugar Control

Psyllium husk has also been shown to have a positive impact on cholesterol levels and blood sugar control. The soluble fiber in psyllium husk can help to bind to bile acids in the digestive tract, which can lead to a reduction in LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. This can be beneficial for individuals who are at risk of heart disease or stroke. Furthermore, psyllium husk can slow down the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

How Psyllium Husk Works

Psyllium husk works by absorbing water and swelling to form a gel-like substance that helps to soften and bulk up stool. This stimulates bowel movements and helps to regulate digestive function. Additionally, psyllium husk acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and supporting a healthy gut microbiome. This can lead to a range of benefits, including improved digestive health, boosted immune function, and even mental health benefits.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While psyllium husk is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, there are some potential side effects and precautions to be aware of. Some individuals may experience gas, bloating, or stomach discomfort when taking psyllium husk, particularly if they are not used to consuming high amounts of fiber. Additionally, psyllium husk can interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, diabetes medications, or cholesterol-lowering medications. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking psyllium husk, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended dosage of psyllium husk is typically 2-6 tablespoons (10-30 grams) per day, mixed with 8 ounces of water. It is essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed and tolerated. Psyllium husk can be mixed with water, juice, or other liquids, and can be taken at any time of day. It is also important to drink plenty of water when taking psyllium husk to prevent constipation or bowel obstruction.

Key Considerations

When choosing a psyllium husk supplement, it is essential to select a reputable brand that ensures high-quality and pure psyllium husk. Look for products that are certified by third-party organizations, such as the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) or the National Science Foundation (NSF). Additionally, be aware of any potential allergens or sensitivities, and consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any adverse reactions.

By incorporating psyllium husk into your diet, you may experience improved digestive health, regular bowel movements, and potential benefits for cholesterol and blood sugar control. With its natural and gentle action, psyllium husk is a popular choice for individuals looking to promote overall health and well-being.

1 Samuel 14:19 – 15:3, In-depth Study

Welcome back to another in-depth Bible study. If you’re just not stopping by I highly recommend going back to the beginning, Genesis 1:1. This is an in-depth Bible study that follows chapter by chapter, verse by verse, Genesis to Revelation.

1 Samuel 14:19

19 And it came to pass, while Saul talked unto the priest, that the noise that was in the host of the Philistines went on and increased: and Saul said unto the priest, Withdraw thine hand.

20 And Saul and all the people that were with him assembled themselves, and they came to the battle: and, behold, every man’s sword was against his fellow, and there was a very great discomfiture.

21 Moreover the Hebrews that were with the Philistines before that time, which went up with them into the camp from the country round about, even they also turned to be with the Israelites that were with Saul and Jonathan.

22 Likewise all the men of Israel which had hid themselves in mount Ephraim, when they heard that the Philistines fled, even they also followed hard after them in the battle.

23 So the LORD saved Israel that day: and the battle passed over unto Bethaven.

24 And the men of Israel were distressed that day: for Saul had adjured the people, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food until evening, that I may be avenged on mine enemies. So none of the people tasted any food.

25 And all they of the land came to a wood; and there was honey upon the ground.

26 And when the people were come into the wood, behold, the honey dropped; but no man put his hand to his mouth: for the people feared the oath.

27 But Jonathan heard not when his father charged the people with the oath: wherefore he put forth the end of the rod that was in his hand, and dipped it in an honeycomb, and put his hand to his mouth; and his eyes were enlightened.

28 Then answered one of the people, and said, Thy father straitly charged the people with an oath, saying, Cursed be the man that eateth any food this day. And the people were faint.

29 Then said Jonathan, My father hath troubled the land: see, I pray you, how mine eyes have been enlightened, because I tasted a little of this honey.

30 How much more, if haply the people had eaten freely to day of the spoil of their enemies which they found? for had there not been now a much greater slaughter among the Philistines?

31 And they smote the Philistines that day from Michmash to Aijalon: and the people were very faint.

32 And the people flew upon the spoil, and took sheep, and oxen, and calves, and slew them on the ground: and the people did eat them with the blood.

33 Then they told Saul, saying, Behold, the people sin against the LORD, in that they eat with the blood. And he said, Ye have transgressed: roll a great stone unto me this day.

34 And Saul said, Disperse yourselves among the people, and say unto them, Bring me hither every man his ox, and every man his sheep, and slay them here, and eat; and sin not against the LORD in eating with the blood. And all the people brought every man his ox with him that night, and slew them there.

35 And Saul built an altar unto the LORD: the same was the first altar that he built unto the LORD.

36 And Saul said, Let us go down after the Philistines by night, and spoil them until the morning light, and let us not leave a man of them. And they said, Do whatsoever seemeth good unto thee. Then said the priest, Let us draw near hither unto God.

37 And Saul asked counsel of God, Shall I go down after the Philistines? wilt thou deliver them into the hand of Israel? But he answered him not that day.

38 And Saul said, Draw ye near hither, all the chief of the people: and know and see wherein this sin hath been this day.

39 For, as the LORD liveth, which saveth Israel, though it be in Jonathan my son, he shall surely die. But there was not a man among all the people that answered him.

40 Then said he unto all Israel, Be ye on one side, and I and Jonathan my son will be on the other side. And the people said unto Saul, Do what seemeth good unto thee.

41 Therefore Saul said unto the LORD God of Israel, Give a perfect lot. And Saul and Jonathan were taken: but the people escaped.

42 And Saul said, Cast lots between me and Jonathan my son. And Jonathan was taken.

43 Then Saul said to Jonathan, Tell me what thou hast done. And Jonathan told him, and said, I did but taste a little honey with the end of the rod that was in mine hand, and, lo, I must die.

44 And Saul answered, God do so and more also: for thou shalt surely die, Jonathan.

45 And the people said unto Saul, Shall Jonathan die, who hath wrought this great salvation in Israel? God forbid: as the LORD liveth, there shall not one hair of his head fall to the ground; for he hath wrought with God this day. So the people rescued Jonathan, that he died not.

46 Then Saul went up from following the Philistines: and the Philistines went to their own place.

47 So Saul took the kingdom over Israel, and fought against all his enemies on every side, against Moab, and against the children of Ammon, and against Edom, and against the kings of Zobah, and against the Philistines: and whithersoever he turned himself, he vexed them.

48 And he gathered an host, and smote the Amalekites, and delivered Israel out of the hands of them that spoiled them.

49 Now the sons of Saul were Jonathan, and Ishui, and Melchishua: and the names of his two daughters were these; the name of the firstborn Merab, and the name of the younger Michal:

50 And the name of Saul’s wife was Ahinoam, the daughter of Ahimaaz: and the name of the captain of his host was Abner, the son of Ner, Saul’s uncle.

51 And Kish was the father of Saul; and Ner the father of Abner was the son of Abiel.

52 And there was sore war against the Philistines all the days of Saul: and when Saul saw any strong man, or any valiant man, he took him unto him.

I Samuel 15
1 Samuel also said unto Saul, The LORD sent me to anoint thee to be king over his people, over Israel: now therefore hearken thou unto the voice of the words of the LORD.

2 Thus saith the LORD of hosts, I remember that which Amalek did to Israel, how he laid wait for him in the way, when he came up from Egypt.

3 Now go and smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not; but slay both man and woman, infant and suckling, ox and sheep, camel and ass.

That concludes our lesson for today. Come back tomorrow as we continue right along in the Bible. Have a great day and God bless!

Don’t Lose Confidence: Daily Bible Study #207

1 Samuel 13:6 – 14:18, In-depth Study

Welcome back to another in-depth Bible study. Let’s dive into God’s Word together, seeking understanding and insight. May His spirit guide us as we explore Scripture.

1 Samuel 13:6

6 When the men of Israel saw that they were in a strait, (for the people were distressed,) then the people did hide themselves in caves, and in thickets, and in rocks, and in high places, and in pits.

7 And some of the Hebrews went over Jordan to the land of Gad and Gilead. As for Saul, he was yet in Gilgal, and all the people followed him trembling.

8 And he tarried seven days, according to the set time that Samuel had appointed: but Samuel came not to Gilgal; and the people were scattered from him.

9 And Saul said, Bring hither a burnt offering to me, and peace offerings. And he offered the burnt offering.

10 And it came to pass, that as soon as he had made an end of offering the burnt offering, behold, Samuel came; and Saul went out to meet him, that he might salute him.

11 And Samuel said, What hast thou done? And Saul said, Because I saw that the people were scattered from me, and that thou camest not within the days appointed, and that the Philistines gathered themselves together at Michmash;

12 Therefore said I, The Philistines will come down now upon me to Gilgal, and I have not made supplication unto the LORD: I forced myself therefore, and offered a burnt offering.

13 And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever.

14 But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.

15 And Samuel arose, and gat him up from Gilgal unto Gibeah of Benjamin. And Saul numbered the people that were present with him, about six hundred men.

16 And Saul, and Jonathan his son, and the people that were present with them, abode in Gibeah of Benjamin: but the Philistines encamped in Michmash.

17 And the spoilers came out of the camp of the Philistines in three companies: one company turned unto the way that leadeth to Ophrah, unto the land of Shual:

18 And another company turned the way to Bethhoron: and another company turned to the way of the border that looketh to the valley of Zeboim toward the wilderness.

19 Now there was no smith found throughout all the land of Israel: for the Philistines said, Lest the Hebrews make them swords or spears:

20 But all the Israelites went down to the Philistines, to sharpen every man his share, and his coulter, and his axe, and his mattock.

21 Yet they had a file for the mattocks, and for the coulters, and for the forks, and for the axes, and to sharpen the goads.

22 So it came to pass in the day of battle, that there was neither sword nor spear found in the hand of any of the people that were with Saul and Jonathan: but with Saul and with Jonathan his son was there found.

23 And the garrison of the Philistines went out to the passage of Michmash.

I Samuel 14
1 Now it came to pass upon a day, that Jonathan the son of Saul said unto the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison, that is on the other side. But he told not his father.

2 And Saul tarried in the uttermost part of Gibeah under a pomegranate tree which is in Migron: and the people that were with him were about six hundred men;

3 And Ahiah, the son of Ahitub, Ichabod’s brother, the son of Phinehas, the son of Eli, the LORD’S priest in Shiloh, wearing an ephod. And the people knew not that Jonathan was gone.

4 And between the passages, by which Jonathan sought to go over unto the Philistines’ garrison, there was a sharp rock on the one side, and a sharp rock on the other side: and the name of the one was Bozez, and the name of the other Seneh.

5 The forefront of the one was situate northward over against Michmash, and the other southward over against Gibeah.

6 And Jonathan said to the young man that bare his armour, Come, and let us go over unto the garrison of these uncircumcised: it may be that the LORD will work for us: for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few.

7 And his armourbearer said unto him, Do all that is in thine heart: turn thee; behold, I am with thee according to thy heart.

8 Then said Jonathan, Behold, we will pass over unto these men, and we will discover ourselves unto them.

9 If they say thus unto us, Tarry until we come to you; then we will stand still in our place, and will not go up unto them.

10 But if they say thus, Come up unto us; then we will go up: for the LORD hath delivered them into our hand: and this shall be a sign unto us.

11 And both of them discovered themselves unto the garrison of the Philistines: and the Philistines said, Behold, the Hebrews come forth out of the holes where they had hid themselves.

12 And the men of the garrison answered Jonathan and his armourbearer, and said, Come up to us, and we will shew you a thing. And Jonathan said unto his armourbearer, Come up after me: for the LORD hath delivered them into the hand of Israel.

13 And Jonathan climbed up upon his hands and upon his feet, and his armourbearer after him: and they fell before Jonathan; and his armourbearer slew after him.

14 And that first slaughter, which Jonathan and his armourbearer made, was about twenty men, within as it were an half acre of land, which a yoke of oxen might plow.

15 And there was trembling in the host, in the field, and among all the people: the garrison, and the spoilers, they also trembled, and the earth quaked: so it was a very great trembling.

16 And the watchmen of Saul in Gibeah of Benjamin looked; and, behold, the multitude melted away, and they went on beating down one another.

17 Then said Saul unto the people that were with him, Number now, and see who is gone from us. And when they had numbered, behold, Jonathan and his armourbearer were not there.

18 And Saul said unto Ahiah, Bring hither the ark of God. For the ark of God was at that time with the children of Israel.

That concludes our lesson for today. Come back tomorrow as we continue right along in the Bible. Have a great day and God bless!

Garcinia Cambogia

Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit native to India and Southeast Asia, widely used in traditional medicine for its potential health benefits. The fruit’s rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the active compound responsible for its medicinal properties.

Uses:

– Weight Loss: Garcinia cambogia is commonly used as a weight loss supplement, as HCA may help reduce appetite and inhibit fat production. Studies suggest that HCA can lead to modest weight loss, although results are often inconsistent.
– Appetite Suppression: HCA in Garcinia cambogia may increase serotonin levels in the brain, helping to reduce appetite and promote feelings of fullness.
– Blood Sugar Control: Garcinia cambogia may help lower blood glucose levels by slowing down glucose absorption in the small intestine.
– Cholesterol Reduction: Some studies suggest that Garcinia cambogia may help reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.
– Digestive Health: Garcinia cambogia has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues, such as constipation and diarrhea.

Potential Side Effects:

– Common Side Effects: Headaches, digestive discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea.
– Serious Side Effects: Liver damage, serotonin toxicity (especially when combined with certain medications), and potential interactions with medications like antidepressants and blood thinners.

Precautions and Interactions:

– Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Avoid using Garcinia cambogia during pregnancy and breastfeeding, as its effects are unknown.
– Liver Disease: Garcinia cambogia may worsen liver damage in people with pre-existing liver conditions.
– Medications: Garcinia cambogia may interact with medications like antidepressants, diabetes medications, and blood thinners.

Dosage:

– Recommended Dosage: 900-3000mg of HCA per day, taken in divided doses 30-60 minutes before meals.
– Importance of Labeling: Ensure the product label specifies the HCA concentration, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Key Considerations:

– Quality and Regulation: Garcinia cambogia supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so it’s essential to choose a reputable brand and consult with a healthcare professional before using.
– Individual Results: Garcinia cambogia may produce varying results in different individuals, and its effectiveness for weight loss and other health benefits is still being researched.

Pentecost: Daily Bible Study #206

1 Samuel 12:1 – 13:5, In-depth Study

Welcome back to another in-depth Bible study. May you have listening ears and eyes that see. Join me as we dive into Father’s word.

I Samuel 12
1 And Samuel said unto all Israel, Behold, I have hearkened unto your voice in all that ye said unto me, and have made a king over you.

2 And now, behold, the king walketh before you: and I am old and grayheaded; and, behold, my sons are with you: and I have walked before you from my childhood unto this day.

3 Behold, here I am: witness against me before the LORD, and before his anointed: whose ox have I taken? or whose ass have I taken? or whom have I defrauded? whom have I oppressed? or of whose hand have I received any bribe to blind mine eyes therewith? and I will restore it you.

4 And they said, Thou hast not defrauded us, nor oppressed us, neither hast thou taken ought of any man’s hand.

5 And he said unto them, The LORD is witness against you, and his anointed is witness this day, that ye have not found ought in my hand. And they answered, He is witness.

6 And Samuel said unto the people, It is the LORD that advanced Moses and Aaron, and that brought your fathers up out of the land of Egypt.

7 Now therefore stand still, that I may reason with you before the LORD of all the righteous acts of the LORD, which he did to you and to your fathers.

8 When Jacob was come into Egypt, and your fathers cried unto the LORD, then the LORD sent Moses and Aaron, which brought forth your fathers out of Egypt, and made them dwell in this place.

9 And when they forgat the LORD their God, he sold them into the hand of Sisera, captain of the host of Hazor, and into the hand of the Philistines, and into the hand of the king of Moab, and they fought against them.

10 And they cried unto the LORD, and said, We have sinned, because we have forsaken the LORD, and have served Baalim and Ashtaroth: but now deliver us out of the hand of our enemies, and we will serve thee.

11 And the LORD sent Jerubbaal, and Bedan, and Jephthah, and Samuel, and delivered you out of the hand of your enemies on every side, and ye dwelled safe.

12 And when ye saw that Nahash the king of the children of Ammon came against you, ye said unto me, Nay; but a king shall reign over us: when the LORD your God was your king.

13 Now therefore behold the king whom ye have chosen, and whom ye have desired! and, behold, the LORD hath set a king over you.

14 If ye will fear the LORD, and serve him, and obey his voice, and not rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall both ye and also the king that reigneth over you continue following the LORD your God:

15 But if ye will not obey the voice of the LORD, but rebel against the commandment of the LORD, then shall the hand of the LORD be against you, as it was against your fathers.

16 Now therefore stand and see this great thing, which the LORD will do before your eyes.

17 Is it not wheat harvest to day? I will call unto the LORD, and he shall send thunder and rain; that ye may perceive and see that your wickedness is great, which ye have done in the sight of the LORD, in asking you a king.

18 So Samuel called unto the LORD; and the LORD sent thunder and rain that day: and all the people greatly feared the LORD and Samuel.

19 And all the people said unto Samuel, Pray for thy servants unto the LORD thy God, that we die not: for we have added unto all our sins this evil, to ask us a king.

20 And Samuel said unto the people, Fear not: ye have done all this wickedness: yet turn not aside from following the LORD, but serve the LORD with all your heart;

21 And turn ye not aside: for then should ye go after vain things, which cannot profit nor deliver; for they are vain.

22 For the LORD will not forsake his people for his great name’s sake: because it hath pleased the LORD to make you his people.

23 Moreover as for me, God forbid that I should sin against the LORD in ceasing to pray for you: but I will teach you the good and the right way:

24 Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things he hath done for you.

25 But if ye shall still do wickedly, ye shall be consumed, both ye and your king.

I Samuel 13
1 Saul reigned one year; and when he had reigned two years over Israel,

2 Saul chose him three thousand men of Israel; whereof two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in mount Bethel, and a thousand were with Jonathan in Gibeah of Benjamin: and the rest of the people he sent every man to his tent.

3 And Jonathan smote the garrison of the Philistines that was in Geba, and the Philistines heard of it. And Saul blew the trumpet throughout all the land, saying, Let the Hebrews hear.

4 And all Israel heard say that Saul had smitten a garrison of the Philistines, and that Israel also was had in abomination with the Philistines. And the people were called together after Saul to Gilgal.

5 And the Philistines gathered themselves together to fight with Israel, thirty thousand chariots, and six thousand horsemen, and people as the sand which is on the sea shore in multitude: and they came up, and pitched in Michmash, eastward from Bethaven.

That concludes our lesson for today. Come back tomorrow as we continue right along in the Bible. Have a great day and God bless!

Dirty Deeds

When my son was potty training some 10 years ago, he decided one morning to remove his diaper all by himself. Unbeknownst to me, who was still sleeping soundly in the next room, had no idea of his soon-to-be antics. Not only was this particular diaper full from the long restful night’s sleep, but it was also double loaded with fresh doo doo. Curious as my son was, he then proceeded to smush his hand into the new found substance. What else does one do with human feces caked onto their fingers than to redecorate every wall in the dining room? I woke up in a panic, unable to find my baby and frantically began searching. I found him mid stroke, painting his masterpiece. My panic turned into disgust as he smiled a proud innocent smile. What in the mama nightmares did I just walk into? How could my cute, adorable, innocent, precious little boy do such a thing? My entire one year of motherhood had definitely not adequately prepared me for this situation. What should I do? Where do I even begin? What would even possess him to think this was a good idea? He certainly had never seen me or his father do any such thing. I was appalled and shocked at the scene before me.

I look back now and I can laugh about my inexperience and the whole situation. Two more kids later and not a whole lot surprises me these days. Messes are a daily thing and chaos seems to be our motto. Sometimes, I think back to that day and wonder how many times my heavenly Father has looked at me with similarity. Wondering what in the world I could be thinking or how I could possibly get myself into such a mess. I know one thing for certain, I may have looked at my son with disbelief, disgust and frustration during that moment but I did not love him any less. Just like my heavenly Father, no matter the mess I have created for myself, I will forever be only one step from home.

The same with you dear reader, No matter the sin you have committed, or dirty deed you have done, YOU CAN BE FORGIVEN. You too are only one step away from home..
Fathers is waiting, won’t you come home?

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