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The Calm That Stirs: Lessons from Hurricane Helene

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 Hurricane Helene recently left a path of devastation across Florida and the southeastern U.S., killing at least 44 people and leaving thousands scrambling for safety. With 140 mph winds tearing through trees, homes, and infrastructure, the Category 4 hurricane brought widespread flooding, power outages, and destruction. Helene’s impact was catastrophic, from snapping towering oaks to knocking out power to hospitals. Across five states—Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia—the storm’s aftermath has been a harrowing reminder of nature’s power and the fragility of life. Storms like Helene shake our world. They bring chaos, fear, and an undeniable feeling of powerlessness as communities grapple with loss and disruption and we pray for the victims of the catastrophe and the families who have lost loved ones. At the same time, just as we prepare for storms with chainsaws and road clearing, we all face internal storms—moments of turmoil that make us feel like we are
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In a Rut? Check Your Gut!

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The gut is your gastrointestinal tract (GI), which is the part of the body that digests food and absorbs nutrients. The gut includes the stomach, intestines, and colon. The gut harbors a complex community of over 100 trillion microbial cells which influence human physiology, metabolism, nutrition and immune function. The main functions of the GI system include ingestion and digestion of food, nutrient absorption, secretion of water and enzymes, and excretion of waste products. The gut also acts as a barrier, preventing undigested foods, protein, fats, and toxins from being absorbed. The trillion microbial cells in your gut are what make up the microbiome. Your microbiome provides the key service of breaking down indigestible food, toxins, and medication; as well as making vitamins and supplying the gut with energy. The gut plays an important role in overall health. Dr. David Perlmutter says that up to 90 percent of all known human illness can be traced back to an unhealthy gut. What sh
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How's Your Happiness Intelligence (HQ)? Strategies for True Happiness

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  What does it really take for people to be happy? A better job? More money? The right relationship? Many people say, "If I had more time, I’d be happy," or "If I just had the perfect life, I’d finally feel complete." But what happens when we get what we think we need and still feel empty inside? We live in a world where happiness seems like something just out of reach. We scroll through social media, see others living what looks like a perfect life, and think, “Why don’t I feel that way?” So, we chase after it—fame, success, financial security—but real happiness always slips through our fingers. Is it possible we’re searching in all the wrong places? Jesus said something radical in Matthew 6:19-20 : “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth... but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Real happiness doesn’t come from the things we accumulate, but from a deeper source—a relationship with God. The joy that God offers is eternal and rooted in peace,
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A Happy Heart Pays Off

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Happiness plays a crucial role in overall well-being and longevity. There’s a wealth of research supporting the idea that happiness contributes to better health. Happiness and good health are closely linked. Numerous scientific studies show that a positive emotional state can contribute to better physical health. Here are a few ways happiness impacts health: Heart Health: Research shows that people who experience frequent positive emotions, such as happiness, are less likely to suffer from heart disease. Happiness has been associated with lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart attack, and better heart rate variability. Stronger Immune System: Being happy can boost the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections and illnesses. Positive emotions can lead to lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, which is known to suppress immune function when elevated for long periods. Longevity: Happiness has also been linked to a longer lifespan. People with a positive outl
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If You're Not Eating Aloe Vera, You're Behind the Pack

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I want to bring to your attention a wonderful plant that has been used for thousands of years. This plant is Aloe vera. Its use dates back to nearly 5000 years to early Egyptian times. It has since been used both topically and orally. It is excellent for improving digestion. It supports the gut by keeping gut bacteria in balance. It is a wonderful anti-inflammatory tonic. Aloe vera is one of the only known natural vegetarian sources of Vitamin B12, and it contains many minerals vital to the growth process and healthy function of all the body's systems. Numerous studies worldwide indicate that Aloe Vera is a general tonic for the immune system, helping it to fight illness of all kinds. There has been clinical observation of anti-tumor activity seen within just 2 weeks of drinking this wonderful herb. And even more, there has been clinical observation of colon cancer reversal with drinking this herb. There are so many other benefits about Aloe Vera that it’s impossible to write it al
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Where Do You Look For God's Power? The Ubiquitous Nature of God Truly Has No Limits

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 Aloe vera—a simple plant, yet packed with power. For centuries, it’s been hailed as nature’s remedy, from ancient Egyptian beauty routines to modern medicine cabinets. You’ve probably used it yourself, slathering its cool gel on a nasty sunburn or using it in a soothing lotion. But what makes aloe vera such a miraculous healer? The Science Behind Aloe Vera Recent research has shown that aloe vera is more than just a skincare savior. It contains vitamins, enzymes, and antioxidants that aid in everything from reducing inflammation to boosting the immune system. Its polysaccharides promote cell regeneration, speeding up the healing of wounds and burns. Its antibacterial properties fend off infections, making it a natural go-to remedy for various skin conditions. The more we study it, the more we uncover its incredible potential to restore and rejuvenate the body. Beyond Skin-Deep: Aloe as a Metaphor But let's peel back another layer—one that goes beyond skin-deep relief. What if aloe
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Storms of Life or Winds of Spirit?

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 Storms are a striking demonstration of energy in nature. They combine kinetic energy from wind, thermal energy from the atmosphere, and electrical energy from lightning. During the recent Pathfinder Camporee, a storm threatened to cut short a time of fellowship and worship. The storm, however, became an opportunity to experience God’s grace as leaders made quick adjustments, allowing worship to continue despite the turmoil. This moment reminds us of how storms—both literal and spiritual—manifest powerful energy in our lives. Just as nature’s energy can be overwhelming, the internal storms we face in life can feel all-consuming. In moments of uncertainty, we might feel out of control, much like the disciples in Mark 4:37-39 when their boat was caught in a storm. As they panicked, Jesus rose and commanded the wind and sea, “Quiet! Be still!” Immediately, the storm calmed. This miracle shows that Jesus has the power not only to calm physical storms but also to bring peace to the storms w
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