Please remember these 3 things...

Scary Candy (Again, With Feeling)

It’s that time of year again-the official start of the “candy holidays,” kicked off by Halloween.

It can be sheer torture, facing the overwhelming displays of treats now. There seems to be candy everywhere! And, for a lot of us out there, it can trigger disordered eating patterns. So, what do we do? We can’t stop Halloween- and all “candy holidays” from coming. No, it’s not an easy situation. But, we can look for God’s perspective and help, even considering the temptations and issues we face, dealing with candy and “trigger” situations. “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” 1 Corinthians 10:23 “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” 1 Corinthians 6:12 Candy, by itself, is neither evil, nor good. It’s inanimate. It has no nutritional value; and yes, it’s loaded with sugar, other preservatives and colors. The “moderation” issue, therefore, comes into play. You and I will not die or have the worst case scenario, (whatever we define that to be for our lives, such as the notoriously dreaded “getting fat” fear) if we eat some candy, from time to time, in our lives. However, we need to look at eating candy as a choice; it has no nutritional value. So, according to 1 Corinthians, it’s “lawful,” but does it “edify?” Candy will not harm us, if, the constant staples in our lives are healthy choices: healthy food, balanced exercise, sleep, relationships, support and numerous daily spiritual, emotional and physiological choices. It’s about an overall healthy lifestyle, not whether or not we ate some candy corn today. And let’s not forget, each of us has help for our individual, unique lives. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 Yes, it’s challenging, facing the overwhelming flavors, colors, choices- and emotional ties that Halloween candy can represent to us. But remember, God has called us to a life that includes enjoyment. “…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”’ John 10:10 Are you and I taking time to enjoy our lives? For some of us out there, that may mean having some candy today; for others, it may mean choosing another option. Regardless of what you choose today, “to candy or not to candy” (forgive me, Shakespeare), God is in control and loves each of us unconditionally. He’s there, helping us, wanting us to succeed and to experience His love and blessings. So, look at candy with some newer eyes today. It’s not your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s candy; that’s all. And God is more powerful than it- and every trigger/disorder/issue surrounding it. Go to God, then, no matter what you face concerning your struggles/disorders/issues with candy- or any other food, for that matter. He IS there, now, for you! He will be, long after the candy- and the candy holidays- are gone! “…I am with you always, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:20 Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

A Halloween "Fat Note?"

Came across this lil’ nugget today. With the Halloween spirit in the air, accompanied by a plethora of candy, one woman had taken it upon herself to pass out these gem notes to the overweight children.

This woman plans to give notes to children who appear "moderately obese" in hopes that the message will shame their parents into rationing their supply of Halloween candy. And we’re off and running with disordered food, weight and body image issues. Fantastic. Seriously, children are already having a tough enough time with these issues. Check out these stats on disordered eating: • 10% report onset at 10 years or younger • 33% report onset between ages of 11-15 Is that the direction we want to go with our children, just to keep them from being “fat?” After all, we never know what is triggering someone. Scripture, again, gives a warning about having insensitivity toward others who may be struggling with Achilles heels of any kind: “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:9 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13 And, by making candy forbidden, we subscribe undue added power and temptation to it. When we’re deprived, what do we do? Obsess about the forbidden deprivation object all the more. God gives us a reality check about that: “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” 1 Corinthians 10:23 “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” 1 Corinthians 6:12 It’s tricky, at best, for most of. We already have a lot of warped perceptions, as is. And a Halloween “fat note” won’t be the quick and forever “fix.” It’s about eliminating the power/fear/guilt/shame of any food. It’s about refusing to poke and point at a child’s body, demanding perfection or a more “aesthetically pleasing” size or shape. It’s about letting children be children and, if, indeed, there is a real health problem, getting professional and loving support and treatment for that issue. I don’t know what this woman’s heart motives truly are. I just get extremely uneasy whenever we try, with our own ideas, to steer ANY child in the diet direction. Without knowing it, we’re setting in motion, perhaps, lifelong struggles for these very children. And that never makes for a “happy Halloween.” Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Great Time at Ridgewater...

Hallelujah!!! God's amazing!!! Had a fabulous time at Ridgewater, speaking about "Reinvention." So thankful; God definitely moved!!!

First and Second Challenge...

Ridgewater Tomorrow...

So excited about tomorrow!!!

Jairus’ Daughter Excerpt

I had to find this story of Jairus’ daughter, but more than that, I had to find God Himself. The guilt and shame over my past took a backseat to my new urgency in finding God. Some days, I felt like I was saved and on my way to a wonderful life with God. Other days, I left the lights on and slept clutching my Bible for dear life, like a child clutches a teddy bear. I cried. I laughed. I shouted. I cowered. I whispered and whimpered. But through it all, I kept praying, “God, be real to me, be real.” And I kept reading the Bible. I finally found the story in Mark 5:21-24 and 35-43. It started out with desperate parents wanting their daughter healed. I could relate. My own family wanted me cured, fixed. In the Bible story, Jairus, a ruler of the synagogue, begged Jesus to come and heal his daughter, who was at the point of death. Jesus agrees to go with him. But before Jesus could get there, some people…told Jairus not to bring Jesus; there was no longer any point. “Your daughter is dead: Why trouble the Teacher any further?” —Mark 5:35 I could relate. There were so many people who had given up on me. I heard their voices and frustrated sighs, “It’s hopeless, she’ll never change.” But then, as I continued reading, it jumped out at me: “As soon as Jesus heard the word that was spoken, he said to the ruler of the synagogue, ‘Do not be afraid; only believe.’” —Mark 5:36 He ignored their comments? He didn’t listen to them? Hope started in me as I continued to read. He wouldn’t let anyone else come along with Him, to argue with him. I looked at my life. For so long, my life was about seeking a substitute for God, instead of seeking God Himself. I’d turned to food, accomplishment, image, people, and things. But it was Jesus this whole time. Jesus was my answer, my answer to pain, to fear, to Father. “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father, except through me.” —Jesus speaking in John 14:6 Jesus entered the house where people were weeping and wailing. He said to them, “the child is not dead, but sleeping,” (Mark 5:39) I thought about how death had become my life. I’d focused on death as the beauty, the answer. Stuffing and starving myself was death. Bingeing, purging, punishing, all were death. But what if these words could apply to me and the death I was going through? What if anorexia, bulimia, compulsive eating—what if none of them were the final word? What if Jesus was? What if the Bible really was true? I read on through Mark 5:41: “Then he took the child by the hand, and said to her, “Talitha, cumi,” which is translated, “Little girl, I say to you, arise.” And she did! What if I could arise from all of this too? What if I could wake up and live beyond anorexia, bulimia, overeating, food, weight? And then, to top it all off, I read at the end of the story in Mark 5:43, Jesus “said that something should be given her to eat.” I felt that I was that little girl. You mean Jesus wants me to eat? Not starve, not stuff myself either, but eat something? I didn’t have to starve or binge? “Something”—everything in moderation? You mean Jesus said it first? That’s how two new journeys began for me: adapting my approach to eating and adapting my approach to life and truth. Neither was a neat little process of starting and finishing step one, step two, etc. I discovered just how patient, gradual, and merciful God can be.

Arising Bit By Bit...

There's specific power to God's Word- for you- NOW!! “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts…My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.” Isaiah 55:8-9; 11

"I say unto you, Arise!!!" Mark 5:41 Apply it today!!!

Let Love Be Your Reflection!

Do This Every Bloomin' Day!!!

Blessed Not Stressed

Perspective. "Blessed be the Lord, Who daily loads us with benefits, The God of our salvation!” – Psalm 68:19

Only One Body!!!

Amen to this!!! No good can come from hating ourselves!!! “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14

Good Enough Body Image Test

Do You Have a Distorted Body Image? Is your perception of your body giving you low self-esteem? Do your friends and family see you differently than you see yourself? Take this quiz to get an honest opinion! - See more at: http://www.chacha.com/quiz/1268/do-you-have-a-distorted-body-image#sthash.If7r3tuc.Ms5VqCcd.dpuf

Stop Comparing!!!

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Troubled

When I was a child, I was constantly anxious; I believed I was too much trouble. It was partly from my abusive environment and partly from my own nature. I was “one of those kids” who believed at any moment, something bad would happen.

And there have been many studies indicating how anxiety may be a genetic factor, further affecting addictive behavior and even eating disorders. Indeed, troubled minds are a real thing. I started thinking about the word, “troubled.” Here are some familiar definitions: A state of distress, affliction, difficulty, or need: tried to console them in their trouble; got in trouble with the police. A distressing or difficult circumstance or situation: I've had troubles ever since I took this job. A cause or source of distress, disturbance, or difficulty: The new recruits were a trouble to him. Effort, especially when inconvenient or bothersome: went to a lot of trouble to find this book. A condition of pain, disease, or malfunction: heart trouble; car trouble. Seeing all of the variations of the troubled word is quite troubling, isn’t it? Furthermore, what complicates things is when we are supposed to navigate through life in spite of its inevitability. It doesn’t feel reassuring. And for those of us worriers, it can add all kinds of extra conditions, pressures and standards, often self-imposed, which leave us feeling anything but peaceful. We may worry about being good enough, being perfect, being thin, being an achiever and being loved/loveable. And that can eventually spill over onto our relationship with God. Yay. More great news. Scripture, however, tells us to NOT be troubled. “Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.” John 14:1 Our first thought? “How in the world am I supposed to do THAT?” For most of us, it feels impossible and certainly not easy or pleasant. And heeding God’s instructions on trouble doesn’t automatically fit into our instant microwave preference. Just “add water and stir?” Not quite. Scripture, indeed, gives us more thought provoking news about have an untroubled, God-focused mind… “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 Who’s screaming right now? Yeah, we don’t exactly jump up and down with glee. So, what’s to be done? Well, first, we need to have ongoing focus on God, not perfect focus. Faith gets messy; faith gets littered with stumbles and mistakes. I know. It doesn’t feel like anything in the way of “good news” to hear that. Nevertheless, this God thing is about relationship. That involves process and time; it’s an ongoing element. And it requires recognition of the Truth WE are not God; only He IS!!! And thank GOD for THAT!!! When we’re troubled, we need to remember Who God IS… “Know ye that the LORD he is God…be thankful unto him…bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” Psalms 100:3-5 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 That’s just for starters. This remembrance is not automatic, however. It requires practice, action…faith? And part of that faith involves believing God is not overwhelmed by any of us, let alone, anything we go through… “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27 Still troubled? God isn’t. He has you; He has me. He has “IT,” whatever “IT” may be. Therefore, let’s give more power to that Truth in our lives than any trouble. God isn’t just looking for something to occupy His time. He loves us. Right now. In spite of perceived trouble. “The LORD hath appeared of old unto me, saying, ‘Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee.’” Jeremiah 31:3 “We love him, because he first loved us.” 1 John 4:19 “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16 Let’s choose to not be troubled, to the best of our abilities, flawed as they may be. Let’s choose to allow God to be God in our lives. Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Yes, Even J-Lo...

Sigh. It’s not an earth-shattering revelation. It’s still irritating and frustrating, but not surprising. Recently, Jennifer Lopez revealed how, early in her career, she was pressured to change her very famous curvy body. "Early on, my family really made me love who I was and what I looked like. My body was nothing out of the ordinary in my neighborhood," explained Lopez, who grew up in New York's Bronx neighborhood with her Puerto Rican parents. "When I first started on television [as a Fly Girl on 'In Living Color'], people, and even my own manager at the time, would tell me I had to make all of these changes." (Winter issue of Cosmopolitan Latinas Magazine) Here we go again. Over the years, Lopez has been cited as one of those celebrities having a more “real woman” appeal. How much emphasis has been made about her derriere, after all? Still, it has not come without opposition. And it has not come without a stubborn belief in your value, often going against the dominant pressure to conform to a certain look. "But you have to stand up and say, 'There's nothing wrong with me or my shape or who I am, you're the one with the problem!'" she says. "And when you can really believe that, all of a sudden other people start believing too." Bravo- and yes, easier said than believed AND practiced! We all need help in this area. But God loves variety- and that variety is beyond a narrow, confining list of beauty features: white, thin, tall, slim hipped and big busted. God has decided we’re beautiful, no matter what our dimensions may be: “O my dove…let me see your form…for your form is lovely.” Song of Solomon 2:14 People will always have differing opinions; trends and styles will change. So, can we please stop placing such demand on one dominant presentation of beauty, let people be people, women be women, no matter what they look like? How beautiful would THAT be? Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

You = Purpose

Auditions Now Held

“...I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14

A Reminder For You...

A Little Birdie Told Me...

Recently, my wonderful hubby bought me a stuffed Woodstock.

I’ve always loved this Peanuts character since I was a little girl. What’s not to love? The cute yellow birdie with the black eyes and the squeaky voice, following Snoopy around? C’mon! And this bird started me thinking about the value of birds, in the context of scripture. Birds are part of God’s Creation, after all. And through various scriptural passages, they’re also teaching tools and visual aids. Specifically, scripture illuminates the value they- and we, in turn- have through God’s Eyes: “Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?” Matthew 6:26 “Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?” Luke 12:24 “Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God?” Luke 12:6 Feelings of worthlessness frequently pop up for us. Abuse, failures, trauma and addictions can often produce an unworthy self-concept. We feel like we’re the lowest forms of life, pointless, like some horrible accident. Not true. Value- we have more of it in God’s estimation than we can ever feel. It’s unconditional, irrevocable and incredibly important to God. He wants us to know how much we matter to Him. After all, that’s the whole point to John 3:16, isn’t it? “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.” He wouldn’t waste something as valuable as His Son on something worthless, now would He? We can often get so anesthetized to that scripture; we tend to overlook our own value. We are valuable. We are loved- beyond our feelings, experiences and finite minds. We just are. I’ll be thinking about birds in a new way now. They’re beautiful, sing songs and fly. But now, they are reminders. A little birdie did tell me about our value. I think it’s worth listening to the message. Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Anna Rexia Costume- Really?

I saw this horrible thing again. At this time of year, Halloween costumes are in the air. And I thought the last few years when this costume trended on internet sites, there was enough of a protest to stop it. I'm not going to post the picture of the costume. It is that horrible. Anna Rexia, the costume, is not a cute, clever, sexy or healthy thing to put out there. But painful, disparaging and triggering? Ohhhhhhh yes!!! Scripture, again, warns us about being sensitive and not purposely creating triggering situations for those who are struggling… “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:9 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13 I guess we still need more reminding. We aren’t getting it yet. Sad. Disturbing. Horrifying. Disappointing. Infuriating. And probably, unfortunately, triggering to someone out there. Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Holy Hotlines

Don't Keep Re-Reading The Past...

We Salute You...

Lose Weight, Chris Noth?

All right. Is there something in the weird body image water this week? First, there was the Melissa McCarthy ELLE Magazine drama. And now, Chris Noth, “Mr. Big” from “Sex In the City.” Apparently, he admitted he was asked to lose weight for the film version of the popular HBO series. "When we were doing the movie of 'Sex and the City,' director and creator Michael Patrick King came up to me and said, 'Listen, dude, we're not calling you Mr. Big because of the size of your stomach, so go lose that before we start.’” Wonderful. Positive body image for the fellas. But it’s not entirely a laughing matter. Males, more and more, are affected by disordered eating, body image and weight issues. According to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa & Associated Disorders, “1 in 10 cases involve males.” Furthermore… “Males are less likely to be diagnosed early with an eating disorder.” As if the issue wasn’t difficult enough to deal with. Mr. Noth probably doesn’t have an eating disorder. But the disturbing focus is the emphasis, the importance, once again, placed on image, on a narrowly defined image at that. C’mon. we can deal with this better. We can call this oppressive stuff for what it is- damaging and unrealistic. We are made in the Image of God, not flaky trends. Again, once more, Ladies AND Gentlemen, with feeling… “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14 We are incredible!! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Melissa McCarthy's Elle Cover Controversy...

Here we go again, with picking apart women. Recently, there have been some ruffled feathers over an Elle Magazine cover. Apparently, actress/comedian Melissa McCarthy is on its November Women in Hollywood issue. Anyway, fans having been voicing their unhappiness about the magazine’s decision to photograph the actress outfitted in an overcoat, with her face partially covered by her hair.

It’s a stark contrast to the business as usual approach concerning other cover girls, most of them more scantily clad. I’ve seen the discussed photograph; it’s beautiful. And I, for one, am happy to see a “real woman” on such a notoriously selective magazine cover. Do I wish Ms. McCarthy was more of the rule than the exception? Yes. But, c’mon, Rome is not exactly built in a day. In spite of some figures of “diverse body type,” most of the time, the image out there is an extremely thin one. I’m hoping we’ll experience women, from all body types, sizes and colors and it won’t be such a big deal. It will be just “business as usual,” the fact that we’re celebrating God’s inherent Truth about each one of us: “O my dove…your form is lovely.” Song of Solomon 2:14 That includes every single one of our forms, on a magazine cover or not! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Teeter Totter Thinking

This article, featured in the October 17th issue of Christians In Recovery Magazine, focuses on the importance of challenging our thoughts, especially when they conflict with God’s Word.

Working Flyer For Ridgewater College...

What’s Your Excuse?

Trending now, there’s controversy over a mom, Maria Kang who posted this particular image on Facebook.

Kang’s photo has gotten feedback as being harmful; she’s even been called a bully in her approach. It’s a squirmy issue, especially for those of us with food, weight and body image issues. And Kang, in fact, had her own struggles: "I won't go into details that I struggled with my genetics, had an eating disorder, work full time owning two business', have no nanny, am not naturally skinny and do not work as a personal trainer. I won't even mention how I didn't give into cravings for ice cream, french fries or chocolate while pregnant or use my growing belly as an excuse to be inactive." Still, the “What’s Your Excuse?” slogan can be triggering and judgmental. “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...” Proverbs 23:7 For those of us who have over- exercised in our eating disorders, it can be that unhealthy negative prod. Yes, exercise needs to be a part of our lives; Scripture even tells us this is so… “For bodily exercise profiteth little: but godliness is profitable unto all things, having promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8 But there is a boundary that can be crossed, all too quickly and subtlety. When I see the “What’s Your Excuse?” slogan, it stirs uneasy mixed feelings. One person’s motivation can be one person’s trigger. Scripture cautions us about insensitivity to that reality. “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:9 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13 It’s complicated. But I think the bottom line message needs to be about celebrating our inherent value, here, now, as is, with no tweaking or changing, in the name of improvement. God sees us as incredible beings, as we are, even in our current state, “flaws” and all! “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14 So, maybe the slogan, the question, should read, “What’s your worth?” Answer: “Divinely, uniquely incredible and wonderful!” That kind of question and answer makes me MUCH more motivated. Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Much More Interesting...

Through a Glass Darkly

Mirrors are moving targets, aren’t they? Somehow, no matter who we are or what we do, looking at our reflection breeds discontent and frustration. Just try a swimsuit on in a department store changing room. I rest my case. Indeed, mirrors aren’t exactly our “bff’s.” But it’s not the mirror; it’s us. Often, we can take on an eighth grade mean girl persona, cutting down ourselves, based on whatever we do or do not see. And we all know how much fun eighth grade was the first time we went through it. I’ve had an uneasy time with mirrors, especially concerning my eating disorder mindsets. The introduction to my book, “Thin Enough” fixates on an uncomfortable mirror moment, which, unfortunately, happened all too often… “…I looked in the mirror and saw why I chose to put myself through all of this. There it was: my skeleton body, all eighty pounds of it. I was relieved to see that I was still ok; I hadn’t eaten too much after all. I continued staring, admiring my golden rib cage, my trophy. It stuck out and seemed sharp enough to stab someone, almost breaking out of my skin. I had sculpted myself into my own thin, perfect creation. I had proven everybody wrong. I wasn’t just a fat, lumpy girl! I felt vindicated. Starvation, perfection, and destruction were the mandates I had given myself. Wasting away meant that I was pretty, worthy, and somehow holy. I couldn’t stop. I stood in my bedroom, in front of my three-way mirror. I’d seen so many versions of myself. I’d been fat and thin, feeling both unworthy and worthy. Yet I was never satisfied. I strained to continue staring in my mirror, dizzy. Demons of discontent, failure, and constant want reflected back at me...” Years into my recovery, I’ve given a lot of thought to mirrors- as representations of vanity, as torture devices to self-esteem, as deception tools, as something we use to make sure broccoli and lipstick aren’t on our teeth when we go out in public. There’s so much to mirrors. But one thing which isn’t covered is how they don’t tell the entire story of who we are. Mirrors don’t delve into great detail about each trauma, milestone, issue and phase of our lives. And they certainly don’t predict the future or explain God completely. Indeed… “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” 1 Corinthians 13:12 So, perhaps, we need to adjust our expectations about mirrors. They aren’t the end all, be all. They aren’t the ultimate measurement of our worth. And, as clear and as smudge-free as a mirror may be, it still cannot show us everything about God and His Purpose for each of us. For that, we need to go to God. “For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his natural face in a mirror; for once he has looked at himself and gone away, he has immediately forgotten what kind of person he was. But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.” James 1:23-25 Let’s look into that Mirror. “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Romans 12:2 Let’s reflect on God’s view of us. “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.” Genesis 1:27 And let’s mirror HIS Image!!! “But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 3:18 Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

This is how you weigh yourself...

A Sound Mind

Recently, one of my friends mentioned 2 Timothy 1:7: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” She discussed our ability to cast certain thoughts down. Indeed, according to God’s Word, we do possess that power: “Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.” 2 Corinthians 10:5 In fact, we have the Mind of Christ: “For who hath known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct him? But we have the mind of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 2:16 So, the sound mind is a God thing, gifted to us. But we choose how we utilize that gift. It’s not, necessarily, about feelings; it’s about decision. And the power, following Jesus’ example, is determined by three words: “It is written.” This is best laid out in Matthew 4:1-11. “Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. 2 After fasting forty days and forty nights, he was hungry. 3 The tempter came to him and said, “If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread.” 4 Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” 5 Then the devil took him to the holy city and had him stand on the highest point of the temple. 6 “If you are the Son of God,” he said, “throw yourself down. For it is written: “‘He will command his angels concerning you, and they will lift you up in their hands, so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.’” 7 Jesus answered him, “It is also written: ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’” 8 Again, the devil took him to a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their splendor. 9 “All this I will give you,” he said, “if you will bow down and worship me.” 10 Jesus said to him, “Away from me, Satan! For it is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God, and serve him only.’” 11 Then the devil left him, and angels came and attended him." Repeatedly, Jesus shoots down the devil’s arguments (verses four, seven and ten). So, what’s stopping us from doing the same? Ignorance, pride, doubt? Indeed, our thoughts, whatever they may be, are powerful: “For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he...” Proverbs 23:7 Therefore, why not think God’s thoughts, which are Truth? We have the power of choice. Let’s choose to be in our sound minds today!!! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Molded

The Power Of Can...Amen...

With or without headstands

Triggers...

In recovery, a pesky little thing called triggers is often mentioned. The official definitions of the word read as follows: A small lever that fires gun: a small lever that is pressed with a finger to fire a gun A lever that operates mechanism: a small lever or device that is pressed or squeezed to operate a mechanism, e.g. by releasing a spring A stimulus for something: a stimulus that sets off an action, process, or series of events Triggers are a challenging obstacle. They can seemingly pop up out of nowhere at inopportune times. We need to be sensitive to our own recovery and to the effect it as on other people as well. We never know what someone’s Achilles’ heel will be. “But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumbling block to them that are weak.” 1 Corinthians 8:9 “Therefore let us stop passing judgment on one another. Instead, make up your mind not to put any stumbling block or obstacle in the way of a brother or sister.” Romans 14:13 And fortunately, God has promised to lead and help us: “Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, ‘This is the way, walk in it, whenever you turn to the right hand, and whenever turn to the left.’” Isaiah 30:21 I recently came across some helpful recovery advice: 17 Relapse Triggers and A Plan For Developing a Winning Relapse Prevention Course of Action The Mark Houston Recovery Center www.MarkHoustonRecovery.com Here’s a sampling of those practical tips: Maintain regular contact with one or two people that you can call when you need an immediate pep talk. Recognize that having a positive outlook and confidence in yourself does not mean you do not need help. You are no more successful if you recover on your own or with the support of people who care for you. Become an active participant in your church or closely involved with your personal God. Write down a few realistic goals and keep them visible. Hang them on the refrigerator if you need to! Examples include “I will take a walk today.” “I will call a friend this week.” “I will read at least a chapter a day in my book.” When things do not go as planned, strive to remind yourself how far you have come. Setbacks do not define your recovery. How you handle them will. Understand that life will not always unfold exactly the way you expect it. We must keep a healthy understanding that we do not control the universe and to develop ways to deal with stress and anxiety when things do not go exactly as planned. Forgiveness is a powerful tool. Let go of unhealthy thoughts and focus on recovery. Keep a journal. Writing down your thoughts is a therapeutic way to purge those unresolved feelings. It also gives you the unique advantage of documenting your feelings and progress through recovery. Do not isolate yourself. Honor your limitations and don’t deny that you have them. Whether it’s drugs, alcohol, food or any other compulsion, these tips hit us right where we are. We’re never without hope or help. We must apply both. Let that be triggered instead! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

God’s Name Tag

“And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.” Acts 2:21 When I was a kid, my cousins had a favorite pastime: scaring me senseless. I mistakenly thought by being an only child, I’d avoid the horror of sibling torment. Not so fast. The beauty of older cousins. Anyway, as part of this torment, my loving cousins frequently told me I was in rooms with ghosts, demons and the devil himself. Whether it was in my home or theirs, they’d lure me into a particular room, then shut the door, locking me in while making scary noises, “talking” to the disturbing entities and, of course, telling me these unholy creatures were coming for me. Oh, happy childhood. When is it over? Because I was terrified, I screamed for help, calling for my mother- or even for my tormentor cousins to rescue me. But none came. The terror didn’t end until it was time to go home or my cousins got bored. Until then, however, I learned it was hopeless and terrifying. Again, happy childhood. And, even though I believed in God, it never occurred to me to call out to Him for help. I somehow believed that, at least in this situation, He wouldn’t help me. Still more happy childhood. Now, I know this teasing situation, be it siblings or cousins, to some degree, is echoed in many families out there, in the name of “kids will be kids.” But I don’t think it’ ever too early to tell children God is a loving- and helping- God. Years later, I’ve come to learn of this reality. And a large key to that has been that of the power of God’s Name- or, more specifically, Names. “For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13 “And everyone who calls on the name of the LORD will be saved; for on Mount Zion and in Jerusalem there will be deliverance, as the LORD has said, even among the survivors whom the LORD calls.” Joel 2:32 “Know ye that the LORD he is God…be thankful unto him…bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” Psalms 100:3-5 Unfortunately, many of us adults still don’t have the revelation of that power. God is a specific, detail-oriented God. So, Who, exactly, is He? While it’s not humanly possible to figure Him out completely without at least giving ourselves a serious headache in our eyes, God has given us a few clues, via the array of Names He is called by. Here’s a sampling: First, He is the great “I Am.” “And Moses said unto God, Behold, when I come unto the children of Israel, and shall say unto them, The God of your fathers hath sent me unto you; and they shall say to me, What is his name? what shall I say unto them? And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you. And 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.” Exodus 3:13-15 It’s a big blanket of sufficiency, spread over any and every need which pops up. Indeed, God tells us there’s nothing too hard for Him (Jeremiah 32:27). So, no matter what metaphorically scary room we’re helplessly shut in, God is there, with us. Jehovah –Shammah: “The Lord Who Is Present” “…and the name of the city from that day shall be, The LORD is there.” Ezekiel 48:35 “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 And, indeed, God sees everything… El Roi: “The God Who Sees” “And she called the name of the LORD that spake unto her, ‘Thou God seest me:’ for she said, ‘Have I also here looked after him that seeth me?’” Genesis 16:13 Whether we’re tormented or the tormentor like my rowdy cousins, God sees it. We can’t get away with ANYTHING!!! That may sound like a bummer, but it can also be incredibly reassuring. However we’ve been hurt, terrified, abused, taken advantage of and left to feel powerless, God sees it. He knows. And, again, He’s there with us. “Whither shall I go from thy spirit? or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there: if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there. Psalm 139:7-8 And part of that involves His Authority as our peace. “And the LORD said unto him, ‘Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die.’ Then Gideon built an altar there unto the LORD, and called it ‘Jehovahshalom:’ unto this day it is yet in Ophrah of the Abiezrites.” Judges 6:23-24 You may have felt like your life was anything but peaceful. However, God And Peace are still very much connected. It just may not be according to our definitions and feelings. “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” John 14:27 Yeah, I know, it’s a tall order. Nevertheless, God is in control. It may not feel like it, but all the same, God has our past, present and future situations- EVERYTHING!!! He IS the end all, be all!!! “‘I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the ending,’ saith the Lord, ‘which is, and which was, and which is to come, the Almighty.’” Revelation 1:8 Whew!! That about covers it! These are just a few Names of God; there’s more, so much more!!! And, while it is powerful to know and call on those Names, we must not forget the most important One: Father. “Have we not all one father? hath not one God created us?...” Malachi 2:10 This is the Name which often trips us up. Many of us have not had good father experiences. Abuse, neglect, abandonment and divorce are just a few situations in which the father issue may be all too painful and negative. Nevertheless, God is first our Father, Who loves us so passionately that He adopts us: “For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, ‘Abba, Father.’” Romans 8:15 That includes you! So, what’s in a Name? When it comes to God, it is blessing, love and help, just for starters. Find out the power of the Names for yourself; call on God today!!! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

It's That Middle!

"Life's Challenges: Pointless or Pointillism?”

“Life's Challenges: Pointless or Pointillism?” focuses on the larger, more hopeful picture, especially when it comes to adversity. It appears in the October 7th issue of Christians In Recovery Magazine. http://christians-in-recovery.org/Issues_MentalHealth_Suffering_Pointless-or-Pointillism

Choice

Pulling Teeth

Recently, an article came out, stating how models were removing their teeth in order to look thinner. Yeah. That extreme behavior reminded me of a film a saw, “Giant Mechanical Man.” There was a scene in which the lead characters discussed a dream one of them had, one in which all of the female character’s teeth fell out. We eventually discover the meaning of that dream was the feeling of powerlessness. It makes sense. Eating disorders, in spite of the promised lie of control and power, in essence, also render us powerless, imprisoned and paralyzed. It can be the emotional or mental restrictions, like rituals and obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Or it can also be the physical effects like actual tooth loss from malnutrition and stomach acid from binging, There is, indeed, a torment to the eating disorder. It’s all ruled by fear. And that’s a spiritual matter. Scripture tells us, however, we do, in fact have power: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Timothy 1:7 It’s not, however, independent of God; it’s uniquely tied TO Him. And that’s important to remember. Part of the damaging lie of eating disorders is that we control and exert power over food, our bodies and our will when we engage in them. However, what we’re really doing is battling and sabotaging ourselves in the process. And that is not God’s will for us: “For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” 3 John 1:2 There’s nothing prospering about extreme measures like pulling out our teeth. Likewise, there’s nothing prospering in bad self-image or self-hatred. There may not be the dramatic pulling of teeth, but there is, however, damage all the same. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12 Nothing good can come from the self-harm, be it thought word or deed we impose upon ourselves. Let’s reflect on our thoughts and behaviors. Are they promoting health or disease, freedom or imprisonment? Let’s choose, today, to prosper, be in health and have a health-focused soul. Let’s sink our teeth into THAT!!! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

RARRRRRRRHHHH!!!!

The Monster

We’re now coming upon the Halloween season, with all of its ghosts, goblins and monsters. Monsters… Hmm…

Anyone out there feel like an out of control monster? Or, are you trying to be your own mad scientist, carefully constructing your “perfect” body, your “perfect” life, your “perfect” heart’s desire? Recognize yourself here? I know I do. Disorders and addictions can often thrive on the hope of the “perfect” result, which promises to fill and satisfy the void in our lives. It’s that certain something that’s “missing.” It leaves us chasing after more. And the more we chase, the more we seem to get the unwanted monster. So, in your life, what monster are you creating? In the famous story, “Frankenstein,” a scientist thought he created eternal life, a result which could never again be threatened by death or loss. And so, the monster was formed. However, this educated “expert,” while convinced he knew exactly what he was doing, still could not control the result of the formed monster. Check out Mary Shelley’s work, watch the film adaptations; you’ll see how the results were disastrous. “There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Proverbs 14:12 And so it is with our addictions, disordered eating issues, self-injury and image obsessions. You and I can start out with one reason and soon see the monster take on a destructive life of its own. You and I can convince ourselves that we will just do something “only once” or “just once more.” We’re just going to participate in a certain behavior until we get this “perfect” result. Then, we’ll be happy. Then, we’ll stop. That’s certainly what I’ve said concerning my eating disorders years ago. But I lost track of my “creation.” Before I knew it, just like Mary Shelley’s tale, I created my monster. Is it hopeless then? After all, we are creative beings, in the Image of God. So, of course, we’re going to create something. But what is our creation? Is it a disorder? Is it an obsession? When creating or desiring anything for our lives, we need to respect the power of our creativity and of our longings. They can be healing or they can be harmful. “Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.” Proverbs 18:21 Like Proverbs 18:21, our thoughts are tremendously powerful. A thought can heal or harm. A thought can create. So, it’s a caution to our choice of focus. Things seem pretty bleak with us, left to ourselves. But there is still hope: God. He purposed each one of us. “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 43:7 And God, the Creator, has the final say. There is hope for our monsters, after all. In spite of our situations, mistakes or wrong choices, God still sees our value; His love for us motivated Him to create us and have a relationship with us. Add to that wonderful news, He’s also never intimidated by any life condition we find ourselves in. “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” Jeremiah 32:27 Yes, it comes back to God, even with our monsters. Regardless of our sins, mistakes and harmful choices, we can stop and ask for help. We can stop and ask GOD for help. God already IS our help! “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 The challenge for each of us is to check our monsters and present them, honestly, to God. What are they? Where are they? Go to God with them, even when it seems they are overtaking you. You are not Frankenstein; you are not a monster. You are not your own creation either. You belong to God. You are His Child, spectacular and wonderful! “…I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” Psalm 139:14 So, Ta-Dah? Finished? Nothing more to be done? I’m perfect? Nope. Not quite. For God has wonderfully made us; that’s true. And, He’s called us “precious” (Isaiah 43:4), “beloved” (Ephesians 1:6; Deuteronomy 33:12; Song of Solomon 6:1) and beautiful (Song of Solomon 6:4; Song of Solomon 2:14), just to name a few adjectives. That, however, doesn’t mean we’re perfect. And we want to be perfect, don’t we? How many of us out there strive to create it? Remember Frankenstein’s monster? Its creator, the “expert,” was thoroughly convinced he discovered the perfect answer to eternal life. And we know how well that turned out. Again, it’s a cautionary tale. How many of us focus so much on our own obsessions, addictions or “answers,” that we forget about doing the work of the process, including health and recovery, called life? And, on top of that, how many of us choose to ignore or reject another vital element to both recovery and life: grace? God has told us He will perfect the things concerning us (Psalm 138:8). We, therefore, don’t need to have every issue, every second, every single thing of our lives figured out. He takes even our mistakes and works incredible things from them. God works with everything! Check out Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” Right now, what are you obsessing about? There is more to the story. You and I are in process. And so, in that process, God’s Grace is needed because we will blow it, sometimes big time. But again, it’s not hopeless. Nothing, in fact, overwhelms God. Again, remember Jeremiah 32:27: “Behold, I am the LORD, the God of all flesh. Is there anything too hard for Me?” While you’re in your process, remember God. His will not to leave you as a broken monster; you are created to be His incredible victorious child of purpose. And so, the process continues. Yes, there may be some monsters along the way. But don’t lose hope. You’re not beyond God’s Grace; you haven’t gone “too far” to be redeemed and restored. Leave the monsters to Halloween; don’t allow them to have the final say. You’re worth God’s process in you; you’re valuable and incredible! Copyright © 2013 by Sheryle Cruse

Some Better Options...

He's already there!

“…And God said…I AM THAT I AM…this is my name forever, and this is my memorial unto all generations.” Exodus 3:14-15

Scary Candy- That Time of Year Again

It’s that time of year again-the official start of the “candy holidays,” kicked off by Halloween. It can be sheer torture, facing the overwhelming displays of treats now. There seems to be candy everywhere! And, for a lot of us out there, it can trigger disordered eating patterns. So, what do we do? We can’t stop Halloween- and all “candy holidays” from coming. No, it’s not an easy situation. But, we can look for God’s perspective and help, even considering the temptations and issues we face, dealing with candy and “trigger” situations. “All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.” 1 Corinthians 10:23 “All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.” 1 Corinthians 6:12 Candy, by itself, is neither evil, nor good. It’s inanimate. It has no nutritional value; and yes, it’s loaded with sugar, other preservatives and colors. The “moderation” issue, therefore, comes into play. You and I will not die or have the worst case scenario, (whatever we define that to be for our lives, such as the notoriously dreaded “getting fat” fear) if we eat some candy, from time to time, in our lives. However, we need to look at eating candy as a choice; it has no nutritional value. So, according to 1 Corinthians, it’s “lawful,” but does it “edify?” Candy will not harm us, if, the constant staples in our lives are healthy choices: healthy food, balanced exercise, sleep, relationships, support and numerous daily spiritual, emotional and physiological choices. It’s about an overall healthy lifestyle, not whether or not we ate some candy corn today. And let’s not forget, each of us has help for our individual, unique lives. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalms 46:1 Yes, it’s challenging, facing the overwhelming flavors, colors, choices- and emotional ties that Halloween candy can represent to us. But remember, God has called us to a life that includes enjoyment. “…I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.”’ John 10:10 Are you and I taking time to enjoy our lives? For some of us out there, that may mean having some candy today; for others, it may mean choosing another option. Regardless of what you choose today, “to candy or not to candy” (forgive me, Shakespeare), God is in control and loves each of us unconditionally. He’s there, helping us, wanting us to succeed and to experience His love and blessings. So, look at candy with some newer eyes today. It’s not your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s candy; that’s all. And God is more powerful than it- and every trigger/disorder/issue surrounding it. Go to God, then, no matter what you face concerning your struggles/disorders/issues with candy- or any other food, for that matter. He IS there, now, for you! He will be, long after the candy- and the candy holidays- are gone! “…I am with you always, [even] unto the end of the world. Amen.” Matthew 28:20 Copyright © 2013by Sheryle Cruse