In today's My Faith and Health Edition - NEW Crossword!

• 🦸 Crossword: The End Times Theme - how fast can you solve?

• 🙏 ️My Faith:  The End Times - 5 Theories / Poll

• 🍏 My Health: Inflammation: The Silent Aggravator

• 🦁 Mighty Men: Tim LaHaye & Jerry B Jenkins (Left Behind)+

• ✝️ Bible Verse of the Week: Revelations 1:8

• 🎁 Rewards: Share and win 

First time reading? Click Here to Sign up for FREE

_{NEW GAME: My Faith and Health Crossword}

_{The End Times Theme! How Fast Can You Solve It?}

_{Varies depending upon your email provider.}

End Times Theories and Biblical References

The concept of the "End Times" has been a topic of great interest and debate among theologians, scholars, and believers for centuries. Various theories have been proposed, each with its own set of interpretations and beliefs. Let's delve into some of the prominent End Times theories, their popular influencers, and the relevant Bible references.

1. Pre-Tribulation Rapture Theory

• Description: This theory posits that believers will be "raptured" or taken up to heaven before the seven-year period of tribulation begins.

• Influencers: Hal Lindsey, Tim LaHaye, and Jerry B. Jenkins (authors of the "Left Behind" series).

• Bible Reference:

  • 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17: "For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord."

2. Post-Tribulation Rapture Theory

• Description: This theory believes that believers will go through the tribulation and will be raptured at its conclusion.

• Influencers: George Eldon Ladd, Douglas Moo.

• Bible Reference:

  • Matthew 24:29-31: "Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens shall be shaken: And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in heaven: and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven with power and great glory. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other."

3. Amillennialism

• Description: This theory suggests that there will be no literal 1000-year reign of Christ on earth. Instead, Christ's reign is symbolic and is currently ongoing in heaven.

• Influencers: Augustine of Hippo, Hank Hanegraaff.

• Bible Reference:

  • Revelation 20:1-6: Describes the binding of Satan and the reign of Christ with his saints for a thousand years.

4. Postmillennialism

• Description: This theory posits that Christ will return after a 1000-year period of peace and righteousness.

• Influencers: Jonathan Edwards, Charles Finney.

• Bible Reference:

  • Revelation 20:7-10: Describes the release of Satan after the thousand years and his final defeat.

5. Dispensational Premillennialism

• Description: This theory believes in a future, literal 1000-year reign of Christ on earth which will follow the tribulation.

• Influencers: John Nelson Darby, Cyrus Scofield.

• Bible Reference:

  • Daniel 12: Describes the time of trouble and the resurrection of the dead.

In conclusion, the topic of the End Times is vast and multi-faceted. Various theories offer different perspectives on how the final events of human history will unfold. While interpretations may differ, the central message remains the same: the hope and promise of a future where God's ultimate purpose for humanity is realized.

What are your thoughts / beliefs regarding the End Times? Based upon all of the Evil in the world today, where do you think we are?

Inflammation: The Silent Aggravator

Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury, infection, or harmful stimuli. While acute inflammation is beneficial and helps in healing, chronic inflammation can be detrimental. It's like a fire that doesn't go out, continuously causing damage to the body's tissues.

How Inflammation Influences Pain

Chronic inflammation can lead to pain in several ways:

1. Swelling: Inflamed areas can swell, causing pressure on surrounding tissues, leading to pain.

2. Chemical Release: Inflammation results in the release of chemicals that can irritate tissues and directly cause pain.

3. Joint Damage: Chronic inflammation, especially in conditions like arthritis, can damage joints, leading to pain during movement.

Top Methods for Reducing Inflammation Naturally

1. Dietary Choices:

   • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, these fats have anti-inflammatory properties.

   • Turmeric and Ginger: These spices contain compounds that have been shown to reduce inflammation.

   • Berries and Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, they help combat inflammation.

2. Regular Exercise: Moderate exercise can reduce inflammation. It doesn't have to be strenuous; even walking can make a difference.

3. Adequate Sleep: Sleep is when the body heals and repairs. Ensuring 7-9 hours of quality sleep can help in reducing inflammation.

4. Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can exacerbate inflammation. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage and reduce stress.

5. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water supports the body's natural detoxification processes, helping to reduce inflammation.

6. Avoiding Processed Foods: Processed foods, especially those high in sugar and unhealthy fats, can increase inflammation. Opt for whole, natural foods instead.

7. Herbal Supplements: Apart from turmeric and ginger, herbs like boswellia and ashwagandha have been traditionally used to combat inflammation.

In conclusion, while inflammation is a natural bodily response, chronic inflammation can lead to pain and various health issues. By adopting a holistic approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and natural remedies, one can effectively manage and reduce inflammation, leading to a healthier, pain-free life.

Revelations 1:8 ESV “I am the Alpha and the Omega,” says the Lord God, “who is and who was and who is to come, the Almighty.”

In our quest for understanding, especially in the tumultuous times of our lives, our hearts might grow weary. We look at the world around us, and the prophecies of the end times can sometimes seem daunting. It's in such moments that our gaze must turn to the Eternal One – He who is the Alpha and Omega.

The imagery of "Alpha and Omega" – the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet – is not merely poetic. It speaks of the all-encompassing nature of God. He is at the beginning of all things and the end of all. This truth, dear friends, is the bedrock of our faith.

1. Immutable Nature of God: Just as the alphabet has a fixed beginning and end, God's nature remains unchanged. The world changes, nations rise and fall, but He remains the same. This unchanging nature is our anchor.

2. God's Sovereignty Over Time: He is present in our 'now' ("who is"), He has been there in our yesteryears ("who was"), and He is already in our tomorrow ("who is to come"). This realization can be our solace in understanding the unfolding of end times. Just as He has been faithful in the past, He will be faithful in the future.

3. The Almighty Power: The term "Almighty" denotes a power beyond comprehension. The same power that set the stars in the sky, split the Red Sea, and raised Christ from the dead, is at work even now. In the face of end times, we are not left defenseless but are under the care of the Almighty.

In this era, where many are engrossed in the speculations of end times, let us remember that the essence is not in the events but in the Eternal One overseeing them. It's not about the end of the world, but about the God who transcends it.

To the weary heart, remember this – long before your problem began, God was there, and long after your problem has ended, He will still be there. Whether we're discussing the end times or our personal tribulations, we are in the hands of the "Alpha and Omega."

In our daily walk, let's align ourselves with the eternal perspective. Use every gift He’s given us, whether it’s the positive intentions we set or the natural remedies we use, to glorify Him. As we discuss faith and health, the intertwining of our physical and spiritual well-being, let’s remember that the One who holds the universe also holds us. 🕊️💒🎁💫👥

WIN FREE REWARDS - Just Share the newsletter with your friends (using your unique link - see below)

Give us some feedback!

What Bible verses do you want to be in our Bible Trivia game? What Faith topics are important to you? What Health topics would you like us to dive into? Add a comment below and let us know!