Arise Like Esther

Tag: Holy Spirit

  • God By Faith & Pharaoh By Logic

    God By Faith & Pharaoh By Logic

    Without faith it is impossible to please God. Hebrews 11:6

    Those that are in the flesh cannot please God. Romans 8:8

    I want to share a story of a lesson today.

    My husband was taking our eldest outside and I was helping him get ready, when I felt the Lord want me to do something I’d never done.

    It wasn’t a small still whisper like with the prophet Elijah, sometimes it’s an impression, or a download or it could be a millions ways- however He chooses to speak in that moment.

    It was a knowing this time.

    “Have your son scrape the new soap under his nails before he goes outside”

    Then after there was a bombardment of all these “what will and what if” thoughts aka the warfare.

    “What will my husband say?”

    “Should I do it?”

    I had just a moment to step into destiny or it would have been missed.

    I call our son over and ask him to scratch the new soap that is high in anti-pathogenic properties under his nails & tell him it is going to help him.

    He does one hand. He didn’t really like it. He didn’t want to do the other hand.

    I don’t force him.

    He goes out and tells his dad how he had soap under his nails and felt weird.

    My husband looks at me with this look like … “what are you up to now.” It wasn’t bad or anything.

    And I responded by saying it will help protect him.

    After they come back my husband tells me that our son found something in the ground, he wasn’t sure what it was but later saw that it was a piece of animal poop.

    Me: (in silence thinking “that is so disgusting”) what hand was it?

    My husband: the left hand.

    My son: no it was the right hand… this one…

    It was the hand that the soap was placed under!!!!

    This method is used to protect children and young ones against parasites.

    I had no idea what would happen.

    But God knew!

    Random acts of obedience.

    They don’t make sense. They RARELY do.

    What tremendous pain would have been felt if I had chosen not to listen.

    I praise God that He made me hear Him.

    We won’t know or understand everything- we weren’t meant to.

    That’s God’s job.

    It’s not His will for us to function like that in complete independence.

    It is His will to share things when He wills it. That creates a deep dependence on Him. The constant pursuit of His heart- this must be our ALWAYS #1 priority in life. Him.

    Anyhow I pray this blesses you.

    Incase you want to know more, this is the incredible soap I used. (Savings code: faithrefinedbyfire)

    God bless & stay close to God,

    JC

    8 ¶ By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went. Hebrews 11:8

  • The Surprising Truth About Your Appendix: Why This “Useless” Organ May Be Your Brain’s Secret Weapon

    The Surprising Truth About Your Appendix: Why This “Useless” Organ May Be Your Brain’s Secret Weapon

    Woman of God,

    For decades, we’ve dismissed the appendix as a vestigial organ – a useless and almost burdensome leftover. But groundbreaking research from Duke University has revealed something stunning: your appendix may be one of your body’s most sophisticated command centers for gut-brain communication.

    The Hidden Neural Network You Never Knew You Had – Gods Divine Design

    Using advanced imaging techniques, scientists discovered that the appendix contains neurons!!! This isn’t just fascinating trivia – it fundamentally changes our understanding of how our digestive system communicates with our brain.

    Think of your appendix as a biological backup drive that stores both beneficial bacteria and complex neural pathways. When illness strikes, this backup system helps restore proper gut function and maintains crucial communication between your digestive system and brain.

    Why This Matters More Than Ever

    The implications are staggering. Research shows that people without an appendix experience:

    • Slower digestive responses to stress
    • Altered emotional reactions to certain foods
    • Higher susceptibility to recurring intestinal infections
    • Changes in gut-brain communication patterns

    The Gut-Brain Connection: More Than Just Digestion

    This discovery reinforces what cutting-edge neuroscience has been telling us: the connection between our gut and brain is far more sophisticated than previously thought. Your digestive system isn’t just processing food – it’s actively influencing your mood, cognitive function, and emotional well-being.

    The appendix appears to play a crucial role in this communication network, acting as a secondary neural control center that can process information independently of the central nervous system.

    Supporting Your Gut-Brain Axis

    While this research is revolutionizing how we think about the appendix, it also highlights the critical importance of maintaining healthy gut-brain communication – whether you still have your appendix or not.

    The key lies in supporting your body’s probiotic ecosystem and neural pathways through targeted nutrition. This is especially crucial for those who’ve had their appendix removed, as their bodies need extra support to maintain optimal gut-brain communication.

    Taking Action: Practical Steps Forward

    Understanding this connection is one thing – supporting it is another. If you’re interested in optimizing your gut-brain health, consider exploring specialized probiotic formulations that target both digestive and cognitive function. Look for products that combine proven probiotic strains with ingredients that support neural health.

    One notable option is ProBio IQ, which combines specific probiotic strains studied for their concurrent body and mind benefits with adaptogens that promote mental clarity.

    The Bottom Line

    Your appendix isn’t just a redundant organ – it’s a sophisticated neural hub that plays a crucial role in your overall health. Whether you still have yours or not, understanding and supporting your gut-brain connection has never been more important for your physical and mental well-being.

    The future of health science is increasingly focused on this fascinating connection between our digestive system and our brain. By staying informed and taking proactive steps to support this vital relationship, you’re investing in both your current health and your long-term cognitive wellness.

    God is soooooo AMAZING.

    As always, stay close to Holy Spirit

    JC

    References:

    https://corporate.dukehealth.org/news/evolution-appendix-biological-remnant-no-more

    https://corporate.dukehealth.org/news/appendix-isnt-useless-all-its-safe-house-bacteria

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8137885/

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449095/

    https://medschool.duke.edu/news/neuroscientists-develop-ai-tool-reveal-brains-secrets

    https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4449095/#:~:text=Conclusion,in%20generating%20specific%20functional%20innervations.

    https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-gut-cells-brain-neurons-discovery.html

  • When God Leads You Through the Wilderness: Finding Strength in Your Season of Testing

    I remember the day so vividly – alone in the dense forest, surrounded by towering pines and birch trees, my muscles aching as I wielded the chainsaw. The physical and spiritual exhaustion was overwhelming. I was fasting, praying, and working the land God had given us, fighting for my family’s future. In that moment of complete depletion, the Holy Spirit reminded me of David’s story in 1 Samuel 30.

    When Everything Seems Lost

    Like David returning to find Ziklag burned and everything taken, many of us face seasons where it feels like we’ve lost it all. The enemy comes to steal, kill and destroy – our health, our energy, our hope. Even David’s mighty men, in their grief and exhaustion, spoke of stoning him. But what did David do? Scripture tells us he “strengthened himself in the Lord his God.”

    The Hidden Purpose in Your Wilderness

    Through my own wilderness experience, the Lord showed me something profound: these seasons of physical and spiritual depletion aren’t just tests – they’re training grounds. Just as God led the Israelites through the wilderness to humble and test them (Deuteronomy 8:2), He often uses our moments of complete exhaustion to teach us deeper dependence on Him.

    Finding Your “Man in a Pack” Moment

    That day in the forest, with nothing but snow for water and adaptogens God had led me to discover, I experienced what I now call my “man in a pack” moment. Within minutes, my body went from total exhaustion to renewed strength. It wasn’t just physical restoration – it was a spiritual revelation of how God provides exactly what we need in our wilderness seasons.

    The Science Behind the Holy Spirit’s Leading

    What I’ve learned through research and personal experience is that God created powerful plants called adaptogens that work with our bodies to restore balance. These aren’t just supplements – they’re gifts of creation that help us maintain the strength and clarity we need to fulfill our calling, especially in demanding seasons.

    Your Path to Recovery and Restoration

    Like David, who not only recovered everything but gained additional blessing, God wants to restore what the enemy has stolen from you – your energy, your clarity, your capacity to serve your family and fulfill your purpose. The key is learning to combine spiritual wisdom with the natural tools He’s provided.

    If you’re in a season of depletion, feeling worn down by the daily battles, I want to share what God revealed to me in my own wilderness. He’s shown me a natural solution that combines six powerful adaptogens with His gift of chlorophyll – what I now call my “man in a pack.”

    To learn more about this God-given solution for restoration, visit: Solle Naturals, Strength in your Wilderness

    I give God all the glory for every testimony of restoration I hear. May He guide you to the specific solution your body and spirit need in this season.

  • 7 Time Savings Tip for the Postpartum Mama

    7 Time Savings Tip for the Postpartum Mama

    I wish I knew sooner.

    Now you don’t have to struggle or stress through postpartum. It really can be beautiful. These tips were little hinges that swung big doors. Each so worthy. Don’t underestimate them. I did… complete UNNECESSARY pain.

    1. Get a crockpot! Oh Lawd! I cook my beans, then add meat later and veggies last, sometimes pasta. Food for a couple of days. 🤌🏼 Happy husband.
    2. Meal prep so your breakfast is always easy and light. It’s so important for me to have slow peaceful mornings and not be in a rush or feel the pressure of the cares of this world. This little thing really helps. Keep it simple. Mornings are God, the Huggies and preparing your family mentally to have a beautiful day.
    3. Proteins shakes are a MUST. Fast, easy super clean food. Sometimes when there’s a free moment you are debating whether to eat, shower, pee or sleep. This makes things EASY! And this is a season where Mama will totally pay for convenience. Here’s the cleanest plant based one I have found, oh and the flavor is a 10/10. It also helps to keep your breastmilk rich in nutrient while giving Mama a little energy boost. Postpartum nutrient deficiency is a real thing. This is how you fight back. Savings code: faithrefinedbyfire (first timers.) This being plant based and full of enzymes will take a load off your kidneys and liver! Heaven yes!
    4. Shower time! Only God knows what your support system looks like. But if you are anything like me and need to be in and out fast (thank God my husband ALWAYS watches the family when I shower) this gem here saves time! It’s a shampoo and conditioner combined, leaves my hair clean and my curls beautiful. I also use it as a leave in conditioner.
    5. Fast Food is best! Let me explain! No I don’t mean the drive through. I mean raw fruit and vegetables! Nuts. Always have fruit available. Not only will this hydrate you and give you glowing skin but it’s the perfect food for your family too. Hello rich breastmilk.
    6. Master 3 minute makeup. I Ain’t got time for one hour makeup anymore! Seint is the best postpartum makeup I’ve owned. EVERYTHING in One palette. One compact. One brush. Looks like healthy radiant skin! Easy peasy. This is worth mastering. Flawless finish. For every skin tone. Mimics your skin but looks like a filter. No cake face. It really is confidence in a compact. You deserve to look & feel like a queen. Choose your shades here. No selfie required. Or take their find your shade quiz here, it’s extremely accurate. I can also personally color match you here (naked face selfie required). Best decision I made outside of choosing to breastfeed with our 2nd bundle of joy. It’s a fact, when you feel good about yourself, you do better, you feel better, remember, you set the atmosphere in your home (of course so does your hubby) and everyone will feed off your energy. Fill it with God. Fill it with joy.
    7. Spend time with God before everyone wakes up. It’s been pretty challenging to get that time with the family when everyone is awake. This is a lesson learned the hard way so now you don’t have to. Keep the main thing the main thing- Jesus.

    I pray this blessed you. If it did, please prayerfully share it with a postpartum mama or a woman of God that you know.

    Hugs and encouragement your way. Stay close to Jesus.

    JC

     She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens. Proverbs 31:15

  • From Exhausted to Energized: How God Led Me to Natural Energy After Years of Struggling

    From Exhausted to Energized: How God Led Me to Natural Energy After Years of Struggling

    I remember laying on my floor on the dorm room during nursing school, desperately drinking my second or third energy drink of the day to say awake to study, praying “Lord, there has to be a better way.”

    My hands were shaking, my heart was racing, and I felt foggy and depleted, I wondered if I was going to have a heart attack. I was caught in a cycle of artificial highs and crushing crashes that left me feeling like a shadow of myself.

    Fast forward to after graduation, and I was working in the emergency department and we would actually have patients come that were so jacked up on energy drinks that it was life threatening. This stuff was so toxic! Talk about hell in a bottle.

    Maybe you can relate to that desperate search for sustainable energy. Between ministry commitments, family responsibilities, and trying to stay faithful to your calling, it’s easy to fall into depending on whatever will keep you going – even when you know it’s not God’s best for your temple.

    The Hidden Cost of Quick Energy Fixes

    What the Lord revealed to me through intense prayer and study was eye-opening: those artificial energy boosters weren’t just masking my fatigue – they were actually making it worse. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. Yet I was filling mine with substances that were throwing my blood sugar into chaos and depleting my adrenal system.

    The breakthrough came when I started researching God’s natural medicine cabinet – the incredible plants and herbs He created for our wellbeing. I discovered that sustainable energy isn’t about stimulation – it’s about nourishment.

    God’s Design for Natural Energy

    Here’s what changed everything for me: I learned that true energy comes from supporting our body’s own systems, not overriding them. The Lord showed me specific plants like yerba mate (packed with 24 vitamins and minerals) and cinnamon (which helps maintain healthy blood sugar) that work WITH our bodies instead of against them.

    When we align with God’s design, incredible things happen. By switching to natural plant-based energy support, I experienced:

    • Steady, sustained energy without the crashes
    • Mental clarity that lasts throughout the day
    • Better blood sugar balance and fewer cravings
    • Improved digestion and immune function

    A Testament to His Faithfulness

    Sisters, I give God all the glory for leading me to a better way. Now I can serve in my motherhood ministry, support my family, and fulfill my calling without the constant struggle against fatigue. My testimony is that when we seek His wisdom for our health, He is faithful to provide solutions that honor our bodies as His temple.

    If you’re tired of the energy drink cycle and ready to discover God’s natural design for sustained vitality, I’d love to share more about the natural solution that transformed my life. You can learn more about CinnaMāte here.

    Savings code: faithrefinedbyfire

    “But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” – Isaiah 40:31