Remember, how I said that Deborah's vase was leaking? Well, when I had gotten home a phone message had indicated that they welded/fixed the vase so I should not be having a problem with the water dissipating from the vase. I was glad to hear this. Today was one of those days that entailed me standing on my feet. I showed the Japanese student how to make Hungarian Gulyas, and crepes stuffed with cottage cheese, and some with plum butter which I made. I think I woke her up too early at 9 ish, and we resumed peeling potatoes, carrots, Kohlrabi, and many other things. My dad taught me to put majorana and bay leaves into the soup. I put little egg noodles into it as well, we call this Tarhonya. So not only did the student got to learn, but my lone roofer who showed up on this long weekend called BC Day (this Monday) had a nice hot meal. I sprinkled the crepes with vanilla sugar, and we enjoyed it immensely.
My roof is coming along and I will attach a few pictures to show you of the process. It will be more expensive than originally thought, as it needed sheets of plywood to cover the entire structure. So, just incase the Lord does not come before the end of the year, we will have a solid structure, and not have to worry about leaks
Saturday, July 30, 2016
Update
Remember, how I said that Deborah's vase was leaking? Well, when I had gotten home a phone message had indicated that they welded/fixed the vase so I should not be having a problem with the water dissipating from the vase. I was glad to hear this. I was a little firm with the funeral director, and told him that we will not have frozen water in the vases in the Lower Mainland BC, so this feature of the holes in the vase is ridiculous. These same flowers behind Deborah, are in full bloom again. Year two....How can we carry on waiting for the reunion?
Today was one of those days that entailed me standing on my feet. I showed the Japanese student how to make Hungarian Gulyas, and crepes stuffed with cottage cheese, and some with plum butter which I made. I think I woke her up too early at 9 ish, and we resumed peeling potatoes, carrots, Kohlrabi, and many other things. My dad taught me to put majorana and bay leaves into the soup. I put little egg noodles into it as well, we call this Tarhonya. So not only did the student got to learn, but my lone roofer who showed up on this long weekend called BC Day (this Monday) had a nice hot meal. I sprinkled the crepes with vanilla sugar, and we enjoyed it immensely.
My roof is coming along and I will attach a few pictures to show you of the process. It will be more expensive than originally thought, as it needed sheets of plywood to cover the entire structure. So, just in case the Lord does not come before the end of the year, we will have a solid structure, and not have to worry about leaks.
 |
| Deborah by the raspberries and daisies I try to take her fresh flowers until the Lord returns. |
Today was one of those days that entailed me standing on my feet. I showed the Japanese student how to make Hungarian Gulyas, and crepes stuffed with cottage cheese, and some with plum butter which I made. I think I woke her up too early at 9 ish, and we resumed peeling potatoes, carrots, Kohlrabi, and many other things. My dad taught me to put majorana and bay leaves into the soup. I put little egg noodles into it as well, we call this Tarhonya. So not only did the student got to learn, but my lone roofer who showed up on this long weekend called BC Day (this Monday) had a nice hot meal. I sprinkled the crepes with vanilla sugar, and we enjoyed it immensely.
My roof is coming along and I will attach a few pictures to show you of the process. It will be more expensive than originally thought, as it needed sheets of plywood to cover the entire structure. So, just in case the Lord does not come before the end of the year, we will have a solid structure, and not have to worry about leaks.
Prednisone Side Effects
My husband has been on a steroid medication due to his gastrointestinal condition called Chron's. It is a terrible auto immune disease which has plagued him since his early twenties. Through the urging of my daughter, she asked me to look up the long term side effects of this drug. I was shocked to see, what we are dealing with. Until now, I have tried to overlook a lot of the symptoms, but now find that they are a constant challenge. Here it is in a nutshell.
As well as its needed effects, prednisone may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.
More common:
More common:
Adverse effects of prednisone may be subdivided into those associated with short-term therapy (to three weeks) and those of long-term therapy (> three weeks).
Short-term effects have included sodium retention-related weight gain and fluid accumulation, hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance, hypokalemia, gastrointestinal upset and ulceration, reversible depression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and mood changes ranging from mild euphoria and insomnia to nervousness, restlessness, mania, catatonia, depression, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior.
Long-term effects have included HPA suppression, Cushingoid appearance, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities, peptic ulcer disease, cataracts and increased intraocular pressure/glaucoma, myopathy, osteoporosis, and vertebral compression fractures.[Ref]
Cardiovascular side effects have included hypertension and congestive heart failure due to long-term fluid retention and other direct vascular effects.[Ref]
Corticosteroid therapy may induce glucose intolerance by reducing the utilization of glucose in tissues and increasing hepatic glucose output. Patients on alternate day therapy may exhibit significantly higher serum glucose on the day prednisone is taken. Diabetes mellitus requiring therapy with diet modifications and hypoglycemic agents has developed in some patients.
Adrenal suppression may persist up to twelve months after long-term corticosteroid therapy. Adrenal suppression may be reduced by giving corticosteroids once a day or once every other day. After corticosteroid therapy has been tapered, supplemental corticosteroid therapy during times of stress (illness, surgery, trauma) may be required.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal side effects have included gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and peptic ulcer disease. Pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage have also been reported.[Ref]
Patients treated with an average of 10 mg per day over several months developed 50% fewer infections compared to those treated with an average of 20 mg per day. Significantly fewer episodes of aseptic necrosis and a trend toward fewer complications in general have been reported with lower dosages.[Ref]
Corticosteroids inhibit intestinal calcium absorption and increase urinary calcium excretion leading to bone resorption and bone loss. Bone loss of 3% over one year has been demonstrated with prednisolone 10 mg per day. Postmenopausal females are particularly at risk of loss of bone density. Sixteen percent of elderly patients treated with corticosteroids for 5 years may experience vertebral compression fractures. One author reported measurable bone loss over two years in women on concomitant therapy with prednisone 7.5 mg per day and tamoxifen.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal side effects have included myopathy, osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, and aseptic necrosis of bone. Aseptic necrosis has been reported most often to affect the femoral head.[Ref]
Ocular side effects have included increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and posterior subcapsular cataracts.[Ref]
Pseudorheumatism, or glucocorticoid-withdrawal syndrome, has occurred upon withdrawal of corticosteroids but was not related to adrenal insufficiency. Patients experienced anorexia, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, fever, arthralgias, myalgias and postural hypotension. Symptoms resolved when corticosteroid therapy was reinstated.[Ref]
Prednisone Side Effects
For the Consumer
Applies to prednisone: oral solution, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet delayed releaseAs well as its needed effects, prednisone may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.
Severity: Major
If any of the following side effects occur while taking prednisone, check with your doctor immediately:More common:
- Aggression
- agitation
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- decrease in the amount of urine
- dizziness
- fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
- headache
- irritability
- mental depression
- mood changes
- nervousness
- noisy, rattling breathing
- numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- pounding in the ears
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs
- trouble thinking, speaking, or walking
- troubled breathing at rest
- weight gain
- Abdominal or stomach cramping or burning (severe)
- abdominal or stomach pain
- backache
- bloody, black, or tarry stools
- cough or hoarseness
- darkening of skin
- decrease in height
- decreased vision
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- eye pain
- eye tearing
- facial hair growth in females
- fainting
- fever or chills
- flushed, dry skin
- fractures
- fruit-like breath odor
- full or round face, neck, or trunk
- heartburn or indigestion (severe and continuous)
- increased hunger
- increased thirst
- increased urination
- loss of appetite
- loss of sexual desire or ability
- lower back or side pain
- menstrual irregularities
- muscle pain or tenderness
- muscle wasting or weakness
- nausea
- pain in back, ribs, arms, or legs
- painful or difficult urination
- skin rash
- sleeplessness
- sweating
- trouble healing
- trouble sleeping
- unexplained weight loss
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vision changes
- vomiting
- vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds
Severity: Minor
Some prednisone side effects may not need any medical attention. As your body gets used to the medicine these side effects may disappear. Your health care professional may be able to help you prevent or reduce these side effects, but do check with them if any of the following side effects continue, or if you are concerned about them:More common:
- Increased appetite
- Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk
- acne
- dry scalp
- lightening of normal skin color
- red face
- reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin
- swelling of the stomach area
- thinning of the scalp hair
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to prednisone: compounding powder, oral delayed release tablet, oral solution, oral tabletGeneral
Adverse effects have occurred less frequently when minimum dosages were employed. Dosages greater than 10 mg per day have been associated with an increased incidence of adverse events.Adverse effects of prednisone may be subdivided into those associated with short-term therapy (to three weeks) and those of long-term therapy (> three weeks).
Short-term effects have included sodium retention-related weight gain and fluid accumulation, hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance, hypokalemia, gastrointestinal upset and ulceration, reversible depression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and mood changes ranging from mild euphoria and insomnia to nervousness, restlessness, mania, catatonia, depression, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior.
Long-term effects have included HPA suppression, Cushingoid appearance, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities, peptic ulcer disease, cataracts and increased intraocular pressure/glaucoma, myopathy, osteoporosis, and vertebral compression fractures.[Ref]
Metabolic
Metabolic side effects have included hypernatremia (rare), hypokalemia, fluid retention, negative nitrogen balance and increased blood urea nitrogen concentration. Glucocorticoids have been reported to decrease the secretion of thyrotropin (TSH).[Ref]Cardiovascular
Up to 12% of patients may develop systolic hypertension. Hypertension has been associated with long-term therapy with prednisone and is thought to be due to fluid retention. One author has associated these changes in blood pressure with advancing age.[Ref]Cardiovascular side effects have included hypertension and congestive heart failure due to long-term fluid retention and other direct vascular effects.[Ref]
Endocrine
Endocrine side effects have included glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia. Diabetes-like symptoms may develop in some individuals. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity may be suppressed for up to 12 months following long-term therapy with prednisone. Cushingoid appearance commonly has occurred with chronic therapy. In addition, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities may occur with chronic therapy.[Ref]Corticosteroid therapy may induce glucose intolerance by reducing the utilization of glucose in tissues and increasing hepatic glucose output. Patients on alternate day therapy may exhibit significantly higher serum glucose on the day prednisone is taken. Diabetes mellitus requiring therapy with diet modifications and hypoglycemic agents has developed in some patients.
Adrenal suppression may persist up to twelve months after long-term corticosteroid therapy. Adrenal suppression may be reduced by giving corticosteroids once a day or once every other day. After corticosteroid therapy has been tapered, supplemental corticosteroid therapy during times of stress (illness, surgery, trauma) may be required.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal adverse effects most commonly have included nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, and anorexia. Peptic ulcer disease has been associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy, but is relatively uncommon. Routine prophylactic therapy is not warranted in all individuals. Aluminum/magnesium containing antacids generally have been used to manage GI complaints without significant drug interactions.[Ref]Gastrointestinal side effects have included gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and peptic ulcer disease. Pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage have also been reported.[Ref]
Immunologic
Immunologic side effects have included impairment of cell-mediated immunity with increased patient susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. In addition, the immune response to skin tests may be suppressed.[Ref]Patients treated with an average of 10 mg per day over several months developed 50% fewer infections compared to those treated with an average of 20 mg per day. Significantly fewer episodes of aseptic necrosis and a trend toward fewer complications in general have been reported with lower dosages.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
Corticosteroid myopathy has presented as weakness and wasting of the proximal limb and girdle muscles and generally has been reversible following cessation of therapy.Corticosteroids inhibit intestinal calcium absorption and increase urinary calcium excretion leading to bone resorption and bone loss. Bone loss of 3% over one year has been demonstrated with prednisolone 10 mg per day. Postmenopausal females are particularly at risk of loss of bone density. Sixteen percent of elderly patients treated with corticosteroids for 5 years may experience vertebral compression fractures. One author reported measurable bone loss over two years in women on concomitant therapy with prednisone 7.5 mg per day and tamoxifen.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal side effects have included myopathy, osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, and aseptic necrosis of bone. Aseptic necrosis has been reported most often to affect the femoral head.[Ref]
Ocular
In renal transplant patients maintained on prednisone 10 mg per day, 33% developed posterior subcapsular cataracts. Mean time to cataract development was 26 months. Increased intraocular pressure has occurred in 5% of patients.[Ref]Ocular side effects have included increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and posterior subcapsular cataracts.[Ref]
Other
Other side effects have included a glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome which has been associated with abrupt discontinuation of prednisone therapy and may not be associated with adrenal suppression.[Ref]Pseudorheumatism, or glucocorticoid-withdrawal syndrome, has occurred upon withdrawal of corticosteroids but was not related to adrenal insufficiency. Patients experienced anorexia, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, fever, arthralgias, myalgias and postural hypotension. Symptoms resolved when corticosteroid therapy was reinstated.[Ref]
Psychiatric
Psychiatric side effects have included psychoses, behavioral changes, and pseudotumor cerebri.[Ref]Hematologic
Hematologic side effects have included thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, and, platelet alterations resulting in thrombolic events.[Ref]Dermatologic
Dermatologic side effects have included easy bruising, ecchymosis, petechiae striae, delayed wound healing, and acne.[Ref]Prednisone Side Effects
My husband has been on a steroid medication due to his gastrointestinal condition called Chron's. It is a terrible auto immune disease which has plagued him since his early twenties. Through the urging of my daughter, she asked me to look up the long term side effects of this drug. I was shocked to see, what we are dealing with. Until now, I have tried to overlook a lot of the symptoms, but now find that they are a constant challenge. Here it is in a nutshell.
As well as its needed effects, prednisone may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.
More common:
More common:
Adverse effects of prednisone may be subdivided into those associated with short-term therapy (to three weeks) and those of long-term therapy (> three weeks).
Short-term effects have included sodium retention-related weight gain and fluid accumulation, hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance, hypokalemia, gastrointestinal upset and ulceration, reversible depression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and mood changes ranging from mild euphoria and insomnia to nervousness, restlessness, mania, catatonia, depression, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior.
Long-term effects have included HPA suppression, Cushingoid appearance, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities, peptic ulcer disease, cataracts and increased intraocular pressure/glaucoma, myopathy, osteoporosis, and vertebral compression fractures.[Ref]
Cardiovascular side effects have included hypertension and congestive heart failure due to long-term fluid retention and other direct vascular effects.[Ref]
Corticosteroid therapy may induce glucose intolerance by reducing the utilization of glucose in tissues and increasing hepatic glucose output. Patients on alternate day therapy may exhibit significantly higher serum glucose on the day prednisone is taken. Diabetes mellitus requiring therapy with diet modifications and hypoglycemic agents has developed in some patients.
Adrenal suppression may persist up to twelve months after long-term corticosteroid therapy. Adrenal suppression may be reduced by giving corticosteroids once a day or once every other day. After corticosteroid therapy has been tapered, supplemental corticosteroid therapy during times of stress (illness, surgery, trauma) may be required.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal side effects have included gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and peptic ulcer disease. Pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage have also been reported.[Ref]
Patients treated with an average of 10 mg per day over several months developed 50% fewer infections compared to those treated with an average of 20 mg per day. Significantly fewer episodes of aseptic necrosis and a trend toward fewer complications in general have been reported with lower dosages.[Ref]
Corticosteroids inhibit intestinal calcium absorption and increase urinary calcium excretion leading to bone resorption and bone loss. Bone loss of 3% over one year has been demonstrated with prednisolone 10 mg per day. Postmenopausal females are particularly at risk of loss of bone density. Sixteen percent of elderly patients treated with corticosteroids for 5 years may experience vertebral compression fractures. One author reported measurable bone loss over two years in women on concomitant therapy with prednisone 7.5 mg per day and tamoxifen.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal side effects have included myopathy, osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, and aseptic necrosis of bone. Aseptic necrosis has been reported most often to affect the femoral head.[Ref]
Ocular side effects have included increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and posterior subcapsular cataracts.[Ref]
Pseudorheumatism, or glucocorticoid-withdrawal syndrome, has occurred upon withdrawal of corticosteroids but was not related to adrenal insufficiency. Patients experienced anorexia, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, fever, arthralgias, myalgias and postural hypotension. Symptoms resolved when corticosteroid therapy was reinstated.[Ref]
Prednisone Side Effects
For the Consumer
Applies to prednisone: oral solution, oral syrup, oral tablet, oral tablet delayed releaseAs well as its needed effects, prednisone may cause unwanted side effects that require medical attention.
Severity: Major
If any of the following side effects occur while taking prednisone, check with your doctor immediately:More common:
- Aggression
- agitation
- anxiety
- blurred vision
- decrease in the amount of urine
- dizziness
- fast, slow, pounding, or irregular heartbeat or pulse
- headache
- irritability
- mental depression
- mood changes
- nervousness
- noisy, rattling breathing
- numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
- pounding in the ears
- shortness of breath
- swelling of the fingers, hands, feet, or lower legs
- trouble thinking, speaking, or walking
- troubled breathing at rest
- weight gain
- Abdominal or stomach cramping or burning (severe)
- abdominal or stomach pain
- backache
- bloody, black, or tarry stools
- cough or hoarseness
- darkening of skin
- decrease in height
- decreased vision
- diarrhea
- dry mouth
- eye pain
- eye tearing
- facial hair growth in females
- fainting
- fever or chills
- flushed, dry skin
- fractures
- fruit-like breath odor
- full or round face, neck, or trunk
- heartburn or indigestion (severe and continuous)
- increased hunger
- increased thirst
- increased urination
- loss of appetite
- loss of sexual desire or ability
- lower back or side pain
- menstrual irregularities
- muscle pain or tenderness
- muscle wasting or weakness
- nausea
- pain in back, ribs, arms, or legs
- painful or difficult urination
- skin rash
- sleeplessness
- sweating
- trouble healing
- trouble sleeping
- unexplained weight loss
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- vision changes
- vomiting
- vomiting of material that looks like coffee grounds
Severity: Minor
Some prednisone side effects may not need any medical attention. As your body gets used to the medicine these side effects may disappear. Your health care professional may be able to help you prevent or reduce these side effects, but do check with them if any of the following side effects continue, or if you are concerned about them:More common:
- Increased appetite
- Abnormal fat deposits on the face, neck, and trunk
- acne
- dry scalp
- lightening of normal skin color
- red face
- reddish purple lines on the arms, face, legs, trunk, or groin
- swelling of the stomach area
- thinning of the scalp hair
For Healthcare Professionals
Applies to prednisone: compounding powder, oral delayed release tablet, oral solution, oral tabletGeneral
Adverse effects have occurred less frequently when minimum dosages were employed. Dosages greater than 10 mg per day have been associated with an increased incidence of adverse events.Adverse effects of prednisone may be subdivided into those associated with short-term therapy (to three weeks) and those of long-term therapy (> three weeks).
Short-term effects have included sodium retention-related weight gain and fluid accumulation, hyperglycemia and glucose intolerance, hypokalemia, gastrointestinal upset and ulceration, reversible depression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and mood changes ranging from mild euphoria and insomnia to nervousness, restlessness, mania, catatonia, depression, delusions, hallucinations, and violent behavior.
Long-term effects have included HPA suppression, Cushingoid appearance, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities, peptic ulcer disease, cataracts and increased intraocular pressure/glaucoma, myopathy, osteoporosis, and vertebral compression fractures.[Ref]
Metabolic
Metabolic side effects have included hypernatremia (rare), hypokalemia, fluid retention, negative nitrogen balance and increased blood urea nitrogen concentration. Glucocorticoids have been reported to decrease the secretion of thyrotropin (TSH).[Ref]Cardiovascular
Up to 12% of patients may develop systolic hypertension. Hypertension has been associated with long-term therapy with prednisone and is thought to be due to fluid retention. One author has associated these changes in blood pressure with advancing age.[Ref]Cardiovascular side effects have included hypertension and congestive heart failure due to long-term fluid retention and other direct vascular effects.[Ref]
Endocrine
Endocrine side effects have included glucose intolerance and hyperglycemia. Diabetes-like symptoms may develop in some individuals. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity may be suppressed for up to 12 months following long-term therapy with prednisone. Cushingoid appearance commonly has occurred with chronic therapy. In addition, hirsutism or virilism, impotence, and menstrual irregularities may occur with chronic therapy.[Ref]Corticosteroid therapy may induce glucose intolerance by reducing the utilization of glucose in tissues and increasing hepatic glucose output. Patients on alternate day therapy may exhibit significantly higher serum glucose on the day prednisone is taken. Diabetes mellitus requiring therapy with diet modifications and hypoglycemic agents has developed in some patients.
Adrenal suppression may persist up to twelve months after long-term corticosteroid therapy. Adrenal suppression may be reduced by giving corticosteroids once a day or once every other day. After corticosteroid therapy has been tapered, supplemental corticosteroid therapy during times of stress (illness, surgery, trauma) may be required.[Ref]
Gastrointestinal
Gastrointestinal adverse effects most commonly have included nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, and anorexia. Peptic ulcer disease has been associated with long-term corticosteroid therapy, but is relatively uncommon. Routine prophylactic therapy is not warranted in all individuals. Aluminum/magnesium containing antacids generally have been used to manage GI complaints without significant drug interactions.[Ref]Gastrointestinal side effects have included gastrointestinal upset, nausea, vomiting, and peptic ulcer disease. Pancreatitis, gastrointestinal perforation and hemorrhage have also been reported.[Ref]
Immunologic
Immunologic side effects have included impairment of cell-mediated immunity with increased patient susceptibility to bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic infections. In addition, the immune response to skin tests may be suppressed.[Ref]Patients treated with an average of 10 mg per day over several months developed 50% fewer infections compared to those treated with an average of 20 mg per day. Significantly fewer episodes of aseptic necrosis and a trend toward fewer complications in general have been reported with lower dosages.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal
Corticosteroid myopathy has presented as weakness and wasting of the proximal limb and girdle muscles and generally has been reversible following cessation of therapy.Corticosteroids inhibit intestinal calcium absorption and increase urinary calcium excretion leading to bone resorption and bone loss. Bone loss of 3% over one year has been demonstrated with prednisolone 10 mg per day. Postmenopausal females are particularly at risk of loss of bone density. Sixteen percent of elderly patients treated with corticosteroids for 5 years may experience vertebral compression fractures. One author reported measurable bone loss over two years in women on concomitant therapy with prednisone 7.5 mg per day and tamoxifen.[Ref]
Musculoskeletal side effects have included myopathy, osteoporosis, vertebral compression fractures, and aseptic necrosis of bone. Aseptic necrosis has been reported most often to affect the femoral head.[Ref]
Ocular
In renal transplant patients maintained on prednisone 10 mg per day, 33% developed posterior subcapsular cataracts. Mean time to cataract development was 26 months. Increased intraocular pressure has occurred in 5% of patients.[Ref]Ocular side effects have included increased intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and posterior subcapsular cataracts.[Ref]
Other
Other side effects have included a glucocorticoid withdrawal syndrome which has been associated with abrupt discontinuation of prednisone therapy and may not be associated with adrenal suppression.[Ref]Pseudorheumatism, or glucocorticoid-withdrawal syndrome, has occurred upon withdrawal of corticosteroids but was not related to adrenal insufficiency. Patients experienced anorexia, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, headache, fever, arthralgias, myalgias and postural hypotension. Symptoms resolved when corticosteroid therapy was reinstated.[Ref]
Psychiatric
Psychiatric side effects have included psychoses, behavioral changes, and pseudotumor cerebri.[Ref]Hematologic
Hematologic side effects have included thrombocytopenia, lymphopenia, and, platelet alterations resulting in thrombolic events.[Ref]Dermatologic
Dermatologic side effects have included easy bruising, ecchymosis, petechiae striae, delayed wound healing, and acne.[Ref]I finished Painting!
Will we recognize our loved ones in Heaven?
Will we recognize and be reunited with our loved ones in heaven?
Yes! In the Old Testament, when a person died, the biblical writers said he was "gathered to his people" (cf. Gen. 25:8; 35:29; 49:29; Num. 20:24; Judg. 2:10). In 2 Samuel 12, when David's infant child died, David confidently said, "I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me" (v. 23). David evidently expected to see the child again--not just a nameless, faceless soul without an identity, but that very child.
The New Testament indicates even more clearly that our identities will remain unchanged. While sharing the Passover meal with His disciples, Christ said, "Take this [cup] and divide it among yourselves; for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes" (Luke 22:17-18). Christ was promising that He and His disciples would drink the fruit of the vine together again--in heaven. Elsewhere Jesus makes a similar, but even more definite, promise: "Many will come from east and west, and sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven" (Matt. 8:11).Furthermore, Moses and Elijah appeared with Christ on the Mount of Transfiguration. Even though it had been centuries since Moses died and Elijah was taken to heaven, they still maintained a clear identity (Matt. 17:3)--Peter, James, and John evidently recognized them (v. 4), which implies that we will somehow be able to recognize people we've never even seen before.
All the redeemed will maintain their identity forever, but in a perfected form. We will be able to have fellowship with Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Jacob, Samuel, Moses, Joshua, Esther, Elijah, Elisha, Isaiah, Daniel, Ezekiel, David, Peter, Barnabas, Paul, or any of the saints we choose. For that to be possible, we must all retain our individual identities, not turn into some sort of generic beings.
Describing the Lord's appearing and the resurrection of the saints who have died, Paul writes, "Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord" (1 Thess. 4:17).
Paul's purpose in writing was to comfort some of the Thessalonians who evidently thought their dying loved ones would miss the return of Christ. He says in verse 18, "Comfort one another with these words." The comfort comes from the prospect of reunion. Little comfort this would be if in the reunion we could not even recognize one another. But Paul's promise that we will all be "together" forever implies that we shall renew fellowship with all whom we have known.
We will be reunited not only with our own families and loved ones, but also with the people of God from all ages. In heaven we will all be one loving family. The immense size of the family will not matter in the infinite perfection of heaven. There will be ample opportunity for close relationships with everyone, and our eternity will be spent in just that kind of rich, unending fellowship.
If you're worried about feeling out of place in heaven, don't. Heaven will seem more like home than the dearest spot on earth to you. It is uniquely designed by a tender, loving Savior to be the place where we will live together for all eternity and enjoy Him forever--in the fullness of our glorified humanity.
Is it any wonder that the psalmist said, "Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of His saints" (Ps. 116:15)?Adapted from John MacArthur, The Glory of Heaven (Wheaton, IL: Crossway, 1996), 138-41.
Friday, July 29, 2016
Perfect Love
My Friends Post
"Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love."
1John 4:17-18.
LOVE AND FEAR DO NOT MIX.
"Love has been perfected among us in this: that we may have boldness in the day of judgment; because as He is, so are we in this world.
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves torment. But he who fears has not been made perfect in love."
1John 4:17-18.
LOVE AND FEAR DO NOT MIX.
In whom is LOVE perfected?
It is in him that Loves GOD.
How do we Love GOD? Let the LORD tell us.
How does GOD tell us to Love HIM??
"If ye love Me, keep My commandments."
John 14:15
"He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him."
John 14:21
"If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and WE will come unto him, and make OUR abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the Word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father's which sent Me."
John 14: 23-24.
"If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in HIS love."
John 15:10
"By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous."
1John 5:2-3.
OBVIOUSLY - IF WE PERFECT THE LOVE OF GOD, FEAR AND TORMENT SHALL NOT BE OUR PROBLEM: BECAUSE WE KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS.
PERFECT LOVE FOR GOD IS KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS.
It is in him that Loves GOD.
How do we Love GOD? Let the LORD tell us.
How does GOD tell us to Love HIM??
"If ye love Me, keep My commandments."
John 14:15
"He that hath My commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Me shall be loved of My Father, and I will love him, and will manifest Myself to him."
John 14:21
"If a man love Me, he will keep My words: and My Father will love him, and WE will come unto him, and make OUR abode with him. He that loveth Me not keepeth not My sayings: and the Word which ye hear is not Mine, but the Father's which sent Me."
John 14: 23-24.
"If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father's commandments, and abide in HIS love."
John 15:10
"By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep His commandments. For this is the love of God, that we keep His commandments: and His commandments are not grievous."
1John 5:2-3.
OBVIOUSLY - IF WE PERFECT THE LOVE OF GOD, FEAR AND TORMENT SHALL NOT BE OUR PROBLEM: BECAUSE WE KEEP HIS COMMANDMENTS.
PERFECT LOVE FOR GOD IS KEEPING HIS COMMANDMENTS.
Thursday, July 28, 2016
Wednesday, July 27, 2016
6 Big Nutrition Myths,Debunked by Experts
INFORM • INSPIRE • ENTERTAIN • EMPOWER
6 Big Nutrition Myths, Debunked By Experts
GETTY IMAGES
These lists of proclaimed “superfoods” and “harmful foods” seem to change on a weekly basis- leading many people to be confused as to the mixed messages they are receiving. Each year, new studies in nutrition science come out, many of which dispute earlier findings. Additionally, we are sold the lie that if we eat the “correct foods” and follow a set of rigid rules, that we will discover health and happiness.
In light of all of the misinformation out there, the following are some of the biggest nutrition myths, debunked by experts.
MYTH 1: Food is just fuel.
You may have seen some of the popular memes floating around which proclaim that “food is just fuel.” According to Rebecca Scritchfield, RDN and author of the upcoming book, Body Kindness, this is a half-truth, “Yes it is. But it is also joy, pleasure, and fun! Healthy eating is a pattern not a rule.”
Food is a part of so many social and bonding experiences. Food does give your body energy (a calorie is a unit of energy, not something to be feared!). However, you also deserve to be able to enjoy and savor your food.
MYTH 2: Your nutrition is a reflection of your goodness.
We’ve all heard someone gripe, “I ate a brownie. I was so bad today.”
Maria Paredes PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor & Certified Eating Disorders Specialist, explains that one big myth that she sees in her practice is when someone feels that what they eat determines whether they are a “good” or “bad” person. For instance, someone might also say, “I am a good parent if I feed my child this.”
However, food isn’t “good” or “bad.” The reality is that all foods in moderation can fit into a healthy diet. Further, what you choose to eat does not determine your inherent value or worth as a human being. The only reason to feel guilty for eating a brownie is if you stole it from the store.
MYTH 3: You shouldn’t eat after 7 pm.
The idea that you shouldn’t eat later in the evening is a pretty pervasive nutrition myth.
Marci Evans, MS, RD, Nutrition Therapist, debunks this when she explains; “Our metabolism keeps running 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Arbitrary rules (like telling yourself when to stop eating) create fear and a sense that you cannot be trusted with food. Consistently fueling your body every few hours-and especially when hungry-will allow you to feel your best and keep you from needing rules like this one! So when your tummy grumbles before heading to bed, eat some cheese and crackers then rest easy.”
MYTH 4: Chocolates/cookies are bad for your health.
We’ve all seen those “foods you should avoid at all costs” lists floating around the Internet. Desserts like chocolates or cookies are often considered to be “off-limits” by dieters or people who want to be “healthy.” However, the idea that you have to avoid desserts and sweets to be “healthy” is another pervasive myth.
Josée Sovinsky, a Registered Non-Diet Dietitian explains, “There is no single food that will improve or worsen your health (unless were talking rotten foods - definitely stay away from that). All foods provide a different nutrient profile and serve a different purpose. There are foods which feed the body, and some which feed the soul-and many which feed both!”
Further, mental health is an important part of one’s overall health. I think we can all agree that being terrified to eat a cookie is not mentally healthy. Rather then focusing on extremes and “food rules,” aim for balance, variety, and flexibility.
MYTH 5: You don’t need to diet you just need to eat clean.
There are some people who agree that diets can be harmful (and don’t result in sustainable weight loss for the vast majority of people), but who promote the idea of “clean eating” as the answer to health and happiness.
Amanda Field, Registered Dietitian, debunks this myth when she says, “Eating clean is a diet, as is any other plan where you cut out food groups, limit foods that you love, or follow any other strict rules. Labeling foods as good (clean) and bad is not helpful and can end up causing harm when we impose these food judgments on ourselves i.e. I am good because I am eating good vs. I am bad because I am eating bad.”
MYTH 6: Cleanses and detoxes are healthy.
Lauren Gasparo Anton, a Registered Dietitian, says that this is one of the myths that really bugs her. Anton explains, “When people STILL believe in cleanses. Really??? It’s called the liver and the kidneys, folks. When people go on those, they are usually trying to restrict after dis-inhibiting around “forbidden” foods (ex: all the cleanses after the holidays). It’s simply another diet that won’t work long-term.”
There is simply no need for “detoxes” or “cleanses,” as the only thing that they effectively get rid of is cash from your wallet.
Intuitive Eating
At this point you might be feeling confused as to how you can work towards feeling great in your body and satisfied/nourished by your food choices. If you are struggling with chronic dieting and food fear, I would recommend that you work to ditch the food rules and reconnect with your body’s innate wisdom. If you are having trouble doing this on your own, it might be helpful to reach out to a registered dietitian (especially one who is knowledgeable about intuitive eating and health at every size).
I am certified in a practice called intuitive eating, which helps you to ditch food rules and learn how to tune into your sense of hunger and fullness, enjoyment around food, and your body’s individualized needs. By reconnecting with your body and ignoring the noise of diet-culture and the nutrition myths that are propagated by the media, you will be on the path towards making peace with food.
After all, life is just too short for food rules, chronic dieting, and self-hate.
Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LGSW is a mental health therapist, intuitive eating counselor, and blogger on The Huffington Post and Psychology Today. She specializes in treating adolescents, survivors of trauma, and individuals with eating disorders and mood disorders. “Like” Jennifer on Facebook at Jennifer Rollin, MSW, LGSW. Or check out her website at www.jenniferrollin.com
A New Roof
I cannot express how happy I am to fall into bed these nights. Just a recap of my day. Dentist visit in Vancouver this morning, then cleaning, then recapping with the roofer, then visiting a friend with a Japanese students ( younger and completely immersed in the English culture-no Japanese contact), then dinner and a trip to the shoe repair shop, optometrist to pick up my perscription sunglasses now in Deborah's fancy frame, then off to Carlton Cards with my Japanese student where she was looking for snow balls of all things. In the middle of summer, she was looking for snowballs. We went into several stores, all the while I was telling her that perhaps in November she can find snowballs for her friend in Japan. To my amazement, Carlton Cards, already had their Christmas snowballs out at 50 percent discount.. She found her tiny snowball, and I could not have been more surprised. What also surprised me that Hallmark store had Halloween, as well as Christmas things out for sale. We are now at the end of July, and it is unheard of to have such options and mixture of themes out on the shelves.
We decided to do our roof. The man who gave us a good quote, also a friend of my daughters had a cancellation, so in a day's notice, we had to move all the stuff from around the immediate surrounding of our home. We also had a dumpster arrive the next morning to put all the old shingles in. The weather has never been hotter this summer either, so I treated the men to a raspberry smoothy. The only glitch was that the plywood had to be replaced on the entire roof. We are looking at a bigger cost than originally planned. So tonight we have a heap of supplies on top of our roof waiting for installation. Considering that we had some leaks in closets, and our dining room, it was time to address the issue. Hopefully, in 4 days, all the surrounding yard will be back in order, with a new roof on top of our house. We picked a darker grey shingle with a touch of sparkle. We did not want to choose pure black because it attracts so much heat, and my husband does not like it one bit.
Tomorrow, I will try to stay away from the pounding on the top of my home. I will go out for a walk or something. I am glad the roofers are considerate and finish reasonably early in the day. Please pray that in the midst of the chaos, I can find peace.
We decided to do our roof. The man who gave us a good quote, also a friend of my daughters had a cancellation, so in a day's notice, we had to move all the stuff from around the immediate surrounding of our home. We also had a dumpster arrive the next morning to put all the old shingles in. The weather has never been hotter this summer either, so I treated the men to a raspberry smoothy. The only glitch was that the plywood had to be replaced on the entire roof. We are looking at a bigger cost than originally planned. So tonight we have a heap of supplies on top of our roof waiting for installation. Considering that we had some leaks in closets, and our dining room, it was time to address the issue. Hopefully, in 4 days, all the surrounding yard will be back in order, with a new roof on top of our house. We picked a darker grey shingle with a touch of sparkle. We did not want to choose pure black because it attracts so much heat, and my husband does not like it one bit.
Tomorrow, I will try to stay away from the pounding on the top of my home. I will go out for a walk or something. I am glad the roofers are considerate and finish reasonably early in the day. Please pray that in the midst of the chaos, I can find peace.
Tuesday, July 26, 2016
Monday, July 25, 2016
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Pokemon Creator Admits Games are Anti-Christian
Pokémon Creator Admits Games are Anti-Christian, Aimed Towards Satanists
In a rare interview with Pokémon creator Satoshi Tajiri, he admits that the games were created as a backlash against his Christian parents. He also says that the games are tailored towards an anti-Christian sentiment or Satanism.
The interview, conducted by Time about the continued success of the Pokémon series, took a sharp left turn when Tajiri was asked about the inspiration for the games. The following is an excerpt from the interview:
Time: What inspired you to start making the Pokémon games?
Tajiri: Well, my parents were Christians. I grew up being taught the ways of that religion. When I got older, I started to realize that the things they said were foolish and I guess I rebelled a little.
Time: How did you rebel?
Tajiri: I started to argue against their teachings. They tried to punish me in various ways to try to get me under control, but it didn’t work. This is when I was inspired by nature and started the basis for the Pokémon games.
Time: Could you explain how your parent’s religion is connected with the games?
Tajiri: Well, when I got old enough, I wanted to do something that would show the world that my parents were wrong. Something I saw in nature was the concept of evolution which my parents vehemently denied existed. This sparked the idea for a game that would go against everything my parents believed in.
Time: This game being Pokémon, correct?
Tajiri: Yes. Pokémon is essentially the correct answer towards life, not Christianity. Everything presented in the game is the opposite of what Christians may believe. Some have said that the game promotes voodoo or magic, and I agree in the sense that there are many things that occur in nature that are unexplainable. Furthermore, the violence in the games is unparalleled. It may not show up in the actual graphics, but the brutality is made especially explicit in the Pokédex entries. Nature, again, played a big role.
Time: So those who say that the game is anti-Christian are correct?
Tajiri: I suppose so. I mean, some could say that the game supports Satanism. I don’t officially celebrate it, but I can understand why people would be attracted to it.
And God shall Wipe Away Each Tear
Today, I went with my Japanese student to a New West Japanese Gospel church service. I was told that the bridge that my daughter took her life from, was closed due to repairs, so I went the long way there. These two girls have never heard the gospel, or read their bibles. We had fellowship after wards, and went to Queens Park, where they saw the rose garden and the petting zoo. They are almost apathetic about the many wonders that they get to see here. They are slow to speak, and when they do it is just a few words here and there. I told them that their parents sacrificed a lot to have them come here , and they must make a greater effort to learn the language. English is the second language in Japan, even as French is in Canada, so I emphasized that they must be able to communicate to their teachers what they see, and do. Yesterday, for instance a home-stay mom took them to a Caribbean, Fijian and East Indian Festival. I have never attended such cultural festivals before, and wished that they would describe to me in detail their experience. However, they could share just a few words. So my frustration is mounting, but I have to keep sweet and gentle. Coming home, I learned from the ladies in the park that the bridge is in fact open. So, again I drove across it coming home. Thankfully, the side where the sidewalk is was covered by construction tarps. Our lives will never be the same.
My further frustration is compounded by the fact that I have been getting the downstairs suite ready for the next occupants/tenants. It has been a painstaking job, with slow progress, as the whole unit has to be repainted, and cleaned from top to bottom. I hired some help, but still it is a chore. Then comes the greater challenge, finding a decent tenant. I am also looking at a new roof repair, which will go into a ten thousand dollar bill. So much for that.
My consolation, is that my daughter has been counseling people on line in order to prevent them for taking an avenue of no return. I am thankful that Deborah is no longer suffering,and await the day that we will all be united in love, in peace and in health. No more sorrow, no more pain, no more crying.
My further frustration is compounded by the fact that I have been getting the downstairs suite ready for the next occupants/tenants. It has been a painstaking job, with slow progress, as the whole unit has to be repainted, and cleaned from top to bottom. I hired some help, but still it is a chore. Then comes the greater challenge, finding a decent tenant. I am also looking at a new roof repair, which will go into a ten thousand dollar bill. So much for that.
My consolation, is that my daughter has been counseling people on line in order to prevent them for taking an avenue of no return. I am thankful that Deborah is no longer suffering,and await the day that we will all be united in love, in peace and in health. No more sorrow, no more pain, no more crying.
Revelation 21Wycliffe Bible (WYC)
21 And
I saw new heaven and new earth; for the first heaven and the first
earth went away, and the sea is not now [and now is not the sea].
2 And
I John saw the holy city Jerusalem, new, coming down from heaven, made
ready of God, as a wife adorned to her husband. [And I John saw the holy
city Jerusalem, new, coming down from heaven of God, made ready as a
wife adorned to her husband.]
3 And I heard a great voice from the throne [And I heard a great voice of the throne], saying, Lo! the tabernacle of God is with men, and he shall dwell with them; and they shall be his people, and he God with them shall be their God.
4 And
God shall wipe away each tear from the eyes of them; and death shall no
more be, neither mourning, neither crying, neither sorrow, shall (all)
be over; which first things went away.
The Husban adnd the Wife a Mystery only a few know..
Matthew 25Wycliffe Bible (WYC)
25 Then the kingdom of heavens shall be like to ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went out to meet the husband and the wife[a];
2 and five of them were fools, and five prudent.
3 But the five fools took their lamps, and took not oil with them;
4 but the prudent took oil in their vessels with the lamps.
5 And whiles the husband [the spouse, or husband,] tarried, all they napped and slept.
6 But at midnight a cry was made, Lo! the spouse cometh, go ye out to meet with him [go ye out to meet him].
7 Then all those virgins rose up, and arrayed their lamps [and adorned their lamps].
8 And the fools said to the wise, Give ye to us of your oil, for our lamps be quenched.
9 The
prudent answered, and said [saying], Lest peradventure it suffice not
to us and to you, go ye rather to men that sell, and buy to you.
10 And
while they went to buy, the spouse came; and those that were ready,
entered [in] with him to the weddings; and the gate was shut.
11 And at the last the other virgins came, and said, Lord, Lord, open to us.[b]
12 And he answered, and said, Truly I say to you, I know you not.
Please read carefully the parable above., translated by the best translator of all times. Wycliffe. Jesus is coming back with HIS WIFE, to meet the 10 virgins.. that means the virgins have been taken//raptured at a prior event.. The Bride, also known as the son, the Overcomer, will have a secret rapture.. then the church/the woman who gave birth to the son.. will be raptured. This is a MYSTERY, that only a few know, and I thought I'd share it with you..
The Seal of the Holy Spirit
The Seal of the Holy Spirit IS Speaking in Tongues
06
Tuesday
Sep 2011
Because there are so many
Christians who trust in their churches’ religious traditions, so many
Christians who fear not being in control of what they say or do, and so
many Christians who display various other prejudices against the
supernatural workings of the Holy Spirit, consequently, there also are
countless believers who will disagree with the following statement: God
intends for EVERY believer to be “sealed” with the Holy Spirit, which
means He wants every believer to experience the Baptism of the Holy
Spirit (experience being Holy Spirit filled with the evidence of
speaking in tongues)! Regrettably, the majority of today’s believers who
do not speak in tongues often heatedly disagree with every born from
above and saved (justified) believer who defines “sealed” with the Holy
Spirit as the observable, physical, outward sign of speaking in tongues.
These naysayers disagree with other believers primarily because these
skeptics do not think that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is a second
work—a separate event from the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who takes
up residence in a believer at the moment he or she is saved.
Furthermore, these naysayers disagree with other believers concerning
whether speaking in tongues is God ordained, and in fact these
disbelievers will scoff at those who do speak in their heavenly
language.
Be that as it may, the biblical
truth is that the English word “sealed” is in several New Testament
verses. Biblically speaking, a “seal” could be used for different
reasons. For instance, in the holy Scriptures, a “seal” is usually a
piece of wax with a distinctive design in it, like that of a signet
ring; a “seal” is a stamp, an engraved device used for stamping; or a
“seal” is a common visible, physical, external mark that preserves and
attests that God’s “seal” authenticates the character and behaviors of
an individual.
Thus, in the Holy Bible, a “seal” would guarantee that the “sealed” important documents’ authenticity has been preserved (cf. Esther 3:12), or would be a mark of ownership, or an impression of love (cf. Song of Solomon
8:6); or would provide protection against being tampered with, and
would prevent the “seal” from being counterfeited or broken (cf. Matthew 27:66; Revelation
5:1), and/or would guarantee that a person’s character is genuine, that
the “seal” is absolute proof, and an unbreakable demonstration (cf. 1 Corinthians
9:2). In the case of documents and letters, a “seal not only keeps a
document or letter securely closed, which means the document or letter’s
content is protected from being read by people who have no business
reading it, but also the “seal” declares to everyone that the document
or letter belongs to the sender.
In contrast, when the Apostle
Paul speaks of a “seal” or being “sealed,” he is using “seal” and
“sealed” as a metaphor for believers’ oral testimonials—those which
confirm the fact that God’s “seal” authenticates a person’s character
(moral and ethical nature) and behaviors (cf. 1 Corinthians
9:2). In the apostle’s case, the Corinthians’ conversations verify the
fact that Paul is God’s apostle. That is why, for the Apostle Paul, the
word “sealed” is equivalent to authenticity, authority or power, and
ownership, and why, for Apostle Paul, God’s “seal” is the Baptism of the
Holy Spirit, which not only fills believers but also gives believers
“new tongues.”
To the apostle, these “new tongues” (new languages) either can be of men (humanity) or of angels (cf. 1 Corinthians 13:1). In either case, it is evident that the Apostle Paul is saying in 2 Corinthians 1:21-22 and Ephesians
1:13-14, that the Holy Spirit’s “seal” manifests as “new tongues” via
the supernatural power of the infilling Holy Spirit. For sure, he is
saying that speaking in tongues is the outward evidence (seal or mark)
that attests to the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (life full of the power
of God).
It is important to note here that
in none of the verses in which it is implied or directly stated that
believers are speaking in tongues is there one apostle (or any writer)
who is saying that speaking in tongues is a requirement for salvation.
What the apostles and other writers are saying, especially the Apostle
Paul, is that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, with the evidence of
speaking in tongues, brings a person into an intimate conversational
communion with Father God. The Apostle Paul also is saying, especially
in 1 Corinthians 14:21, that God first promises “new tongues” (strange languages) back in the Old Testament. The Apostle Paul writes:
It is written in the Law, By men of
strange languages and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this
people, and not even then will they listen to Me, says the Lord. Thus
[unknown] tongues are meant for a [supernatural] sign, not for believers
but for unbelievers [on the point of believing], while prophecy
(inspired preaching and teaching, interpreting the divine will and
purpose) is not for unbelievers [on the point of believing] but for
believers. ~ 1 Corinthians 14:21-22, AMP (this blogger has italicized and colored “men of,” because these words have been added to the original text, possibly to muddy the original meaning of the text)
The Apostle Paul, in the context of 1 Corinthians
14:21-22, clearly is emphasizing speaking in tongues—speaking in an
“unknown tongue,” which he refers to as a heavenly language or the
tongues of angels (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:2; and 1 Corinthians 13:1).
To prove his point, the Apostle Paul uses the Old Testament Scriptures
in which God promises that there are going to be “new tongues”—the kind
of “new tongues” that even the Prophet Isaiah, via God, says will be
both a “rest” and a “refreshing” that many people “…would not hear” (Isaiah 28:12; cf. Isaiah 44:3).
The apostle’s words in 1 Corinthians
14:21-22 are really a paraphrasing of an Old Testament Law. Once again,
the Apostle Paul is indirectly quoting the Prophet Isaiah. In an Isaiah
28 passage, the prophet is saying that because some of the Old
Testament’s prophets did not treat the teaching of God’s Law
appropriately, God promises to speak to His soon to be backslidden
“religious” leaders, indeed, the whole backslidden nation of Israel, in a
“new tongue,” in a “strange language”—this language, tongue is the one
God intends to be His chosen people’s true “rest” and “refreshing.” The
prophet writes:
For with stammering lips and another tongue
will He speak to this people, to whom He said, ‘This is the rest
wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest,’ and, ‘This is the refreshing’
– yet they would not hear. ~ Isaiah 28:11-12, KJV21 (underlining is this blogger’s emphasis)
In context, in the above passage,
God is speaking about those Jewish prophets who prefer to
intellectualize their faith, and about those Jewish prophets who prefer
to control their spiritual experience with Him by childishly yet
systematically approaching the Law “…precept upon precept, precept upon
precept, rule upon rule, rule upon rule; here a little, there a little” (Isaiah
28:10b, AMP). For sure, God is mocking these rebellious Jewish
prophets. He tauntingly is saying that they too must be taught by using
the same kind of concise and conceited method they use when they are
teaching children about a language’s basics. Because these “religious”
leaders refuse to listen to and accept God’s messages spoken to them in
their native tongue, which He sent to them through authentic prophets,
like Isaiah, God promises to punish their rebellion with the same kind
of tedious lessons, and this teaching will make the Law to become their
stumbling block—the Law will make them “fall backward,” backslide, and
to go back into captivity. Isaiah prophesies to them, saying God wants
them to know that:
…the word of
the Lord will be to them [merely monotonous repeatings of]: precept upon
precept, precept upon precept, rule upon rule, rule upon rule; here a
little, there a little—that they may go and fall backward, and be broken
and snared and taken. ~ Isaiah 28:13, AMP
Once again, in the above verse,
God is saying that His Law would be to the rebellious Jewish prophets
just what they say it is, which is a tedious never-ending lesson. They
will receive this punishment instead of receiving the kind of “rest” and
“refreshing” that is powerful, costs them nothing (is a comfort that
comes from the gift of God, from the outpouring of the Holy Spirit), and
has no harmful effects. This “rest” and “refreshing” are the results of
the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, with the evidence of speaking in
tongues. Indeed, the “…stammering lips and another tongue…” (Isaiah
28:11a) are the very “rest” and “refreshing” that God’s chosen people
have rejected—are that which the Old Testament Hebrews refused—and that
which many contemporary New Testament believers also are rejecting.
Nevertheless, the Apostle Paul states that this Isaiah 28:11 promise of a “new tongue” is fulfilled through the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. In Ephesians,
one of the last epistles yet the most developed epistle by the Apostle
Paul, the apostle declares that the Holy Spirit of promise is that down
payment, voucher or “earnest,” on believers’ future inheritance. Their
entire future inheritance is life full of the power of God, and an
eternal life in a glorious body. In other words, proof of God’s
faithfulness to His promise to give believers their whole inheritance is
the pouring out of the Holy Spirit—the Baptism of the Holy Spirit with
the evidence of speaking in tongues. This baptism gives believers
supernatural power, the kind of supernatural power that comes
unequivocally and directly from God.
For this last reason, the
indwelling Holy Spirit is ONLY a deposit, a partial payment on the sign
or promise of what is to come. The sign or promise of what is to come IS
the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, the “seal” that manifests itself AFTER
believers are saved. Indeed, Jesus the Christ, Himself, defines the
supernatural power and the miraculous signs and wonders that would
accompany His disciples, like speaking with “new tongues” (cf. Mark
16:17), as that which His disciples would receive in Jerusalem, AFTER
they are filled with the Holy Spirit—AFTER they receive the Baptism of
the Holy Spirit. True to His Word, according to the writer of Acts, on the Day of Pentecost, the Lord’s disciples (His closest 11, plus an additional 109) are speaking in tongues!
What’s more, on the Day of
Pentecost, the Apostle Peter reaffirms that this gift, the Baptism of
the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues, is that
genuine “rest” and “refreshing” God promises. On this historic day,
Apostle Peter not only makes a reference to the Prophet Joel’s
outpouring of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 2:16-18; and Joel 2:28),
but also he makes a reference to the Prophet Isaiah’s message to God’s
“religious” and condescendingly intellectual prophets. For sure, the
Jewish people the Apostle Peter preached to not only witnessed the
outpouring of the Holy Spirit’s fiery tongues, as they sat upon the 120
disciples, but also they HEARD these 120 disciples speak in the promised
“new tongues” (cf. Acts 2:4; Acts 2:33; and Isaiah 28:11).
In the earlier cited Isaiah
verses, God is addressing the “religious” leaders in Prophet Isaiah’s
day who would be taught God’s Law in the same manner that they were
treating it, which was like His Law is an endless series of trivial
commands. As a result, this teaching would make the Law to become their
stumbling block. Today, it is apparent that the Scriptures on speaking
in tongues also have become a stumbling block for many believers—both
“religious” leaders and their congregations. Indeed, too many of these
Christians think that speaking in tongues is not only NOT for them, but
also NOT for the institutional church as a whole, NOT for this world’s
countless ministries, and NOT even for the genuine Body of Christ. In
essence, according to the believers who scoff at the idea of speaking in
tongues (those believers who also mock their brothers and sisters in
Christ who speak in tongues), this Holy Spirit experience should be
off-limits for ALL believers, whether carnal or spiritual.
Be that as it may, indisputably,
what the Apostle Paul is saying, in the several Scriptures that he uses
“sealed,” is that ONLY Holy Spirit filled believers will have unlimited
access to their entire inheritance, which cannot be exhausted, even
though this inheritance can be used in this temporal realm, as well as
in the eternal realm. Furthermore, the apostle is saying that their
entire inheritance is shut up, “sealed,” inside them as the promised
rivers of Living Waters. Clearly, this sealing means their inheritance
only can be accessed through the Faith that God gives to Baptized with
the Holy Spirit believers.
The above definitions and understanding are apparent in the following quotation. The Apostle Paul writes:
In Him, you
also, AFTER listening to the message of truth, the gospel of your
salvation—having also believed, you were sealed in Him with the Holy
Spirit of promise, who is given as a pledge of our inheritance, with a
view to the redemption of God’s own possession, to the praise of His glory. ~ Ephesians 1:13-14, NASB (caps are this blogger’s emphasis)
In verse 13, the Apostle Paul’s Greek New Testament word for the English word “sealed” is sphragizo.
This Greek word actually means that a person has a COMMON, visible,
physical, external mark, which proves or testifies to other people that
he or she is who and what he or she professes. Put differently, a person
who has been “sealed” by the “Holy Spirit of promise” has a visible,
physical mark, like the “seal” on a letter or on important documents is
observable, physical, and external. In believers’ case, God’s mark
(seal) on believers proves, confirms, and/or attests to their
authenticity, authority or power, and ownership (to whom these believers
belong).
God’s mark also confirms,
guarantees, promises, preserves, keeps, and/or attests to the fact that
not only are believers’ redemption and salvation certain—a once and for
all, a forever event, a done deal—but also that Jesus the Christ will
release the promised heavenly inheritance (supernatural riches,
treasures; the rivers of Living Water), through the Holy Spirit, who is
every believer’s “earnest,” down payment, or guarantee. In other words,
the Holy Spirit is a partial payment on believers’ inheritance, the
whole of which is believers’ eternal life with God, and believers’
immortal glory. This “earnest” of the Holy Spirit—the indwelling of the
Holy Spirit—is why God pledges (vows) that He will give believers
everything He has promised would be their inheritance.
It is important to note here that
the Apostle Paul uses “earnest” and “seal” interchangeably. As such,
both terms indicate that the only way God could give the Holy Spirit as
an “earnest” is if the Holy Spirit is able to provide definitive
evidence of God’s good intentions to give believers their whole
inheritance. Put differently, in order for believers to be “sealed” with
the Holy Spirit, they would have to have received miraculous
powers—powers of revelation and signs. Therefore, as definitive evidence
of God’s good intentions and a sign of believers’ authenticity, the
Holy Spirit “seals” believers with God’s trademark, which guarantees
that believers are indeed the authentic eternal sons and daughters of
God, and that the COMMON, visible, physical, outward sign of their
authenticity, that which lets the world know their true identity, is
believers’ supernatural ability to speak in tongues. Furthermore, by
marking, branding, labeling believers with God’s “seal,” this sealing
act protects believers from the demonic forces that otherwise would
enter into them and possess them. In essence, the Holy Spirit “seals” IN
Faith and “seals” OUT unbelief and apostasy.
In another part of this Ephesian epistle, the apostle also writes:
And do not
grieve the Holy Spirit of God [do not offend or vex or sadden Him], by
Whom you were sealed (marked, branded as God’s own, secured) for the day
of redemption (of final deliverance through Christ from evil and the
consequences of sin). ~ Ephesians 4:30, AMP
The fact that believers can
grieve the Holy Spirit with their bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, or
slander indicates that the Holy Spirit is not always in control, and He
is not always in control because many believers do not make the Holy
Spirit feel welcome, which is the sense of the word “receive” in Acts
1:8. More important, believers who grieve the Holy Spirit are not full
of the Holy Spirit, because the Scriptures describe Spirit-driven
believers as those individuals who allow the Holy Spirit to direct
(control) and guide every one of their decisions, plans, and activities.
Therefore, since believers can grieve the Holy Spirit, then this
behavior is a clear indication that the Holy Spirit who indwells them
did not spontaneously baptize (fill) them, as only the Baptism of the
Holy Spirit results in believers being Spirit-driven believers—being
full of the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 2:4).
In other words, if Apostle Paul has to tell believers to be “…filled with the Holy Spirit” (Ephesians
5:18), then not every born from above saved (justified) believer
automatically receives the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, or His subsequent
initial infilling, at the same time salvation is received. Moreover,
the apostle’s use of the Greek present tense of the verb “be filled”
also denotes that the filling of the Holy Spirit is not a one-time
event, but rather it is a continual experience.
Having said that, it is obvious that, in Ephesians 1:13; Ephesians 4:30, and Ephesians
5:18, the Apostle Paul is speaking of two Holy Spirit events taking
place, once a person is born from above and saved (justified). At the
time of salvation, everyone has received the gift of the Holy
Spirit—that is, the Holy Spirit now lives inside of every believer.
However, being indwelt with (or baptized in) and filled with (or
baptized with) the Holy Spirit are not the same things. In other words,
the indwelling of the Holy Spirit equals believers receiving the
“earnest” on their inheritance, and receiving the Baptism of the Holy
Spirit (being filled with the Holy Spirit) equals believers being
“sealed” (marked, branded, secured) by the Holy Spirit. The latter
clearly is a SECOND work—a work that is in addition to the Holy Spirit
living in believers.
The New Testament actually does
distinguish between receiving the Holy Spirit and baptizing with the
Holy Spirit. The former occurs at the moment believers are saved
(justified), the latter can occur at the moment of salvation, but more
often than not the Baptism of the Holy Spirit happens some time after
salvation. Since this baptism is for the purpose of empowering believers
for ministry, this is the reason why Jesus the Christ tells His
disciples that they will “…receive power after the Holy Ghost…” (Acts 1:8, KJV21) comes upon them, and that this power would make them His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8, KJV21).
The Divine Truth is the disciples
already believed in Jesus the Christ, and they already had received the
Holy Spirit, when Jesus the Christ, after His resurrection, “…breathed
on them and said to them, Receive the Holy Spirit” (John 20:22, AMP)! At that very second, they were born again of the Holy Spirit “…through the resurrection of Jesus from the dead” (1 Peter
1:3), and this event happened some days before the Lord’s Ascension.
For sure, this event is why the disciples already had the Holy Spirit
dwelling inside them and present in their lives; moreover, no one can
authentically confess Jesus as Lord without the Holy Spirit (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:3).
Furthermore, even though the
disciples had achieved supernatural results without the actual Baptism
of the Holy Spirit, which they were able to do only because the Lord,
while still with them, had given them His power and authority, they
would need the Baptism of the Holy Spirit before they could achieve any
more miracles, signs and wonders, because the Lord was going back to the
Father. In other words, between the time of the Lord’s Ascension and
Pentecost, the disciples had not yet been empowered for Jesus the
Christ’s Commission. This truth is why, some days before Pentecost, the
Lord commands them to wait in Jerusalem until God “sealed” them with
(baptized them with) the Holy Spirit.
Now, it follows that, in the case
of the apostles, receiving the indwelling of the Holy Spirit AND the
Baptism of the Spirit were (and for the most part still are) two
separate events, because the born again and Holy Spirit indwelt
disciples of Christ (see John 20:22) didn’t receive the Baptism
of the Holy Spirit until the Day of Pentecost, which was after the
Lord’s Ascension! Therefore, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit (being
baptized with the Holy
Spirit, or being filled with the Holy Spirit) more often than not will
be a subsequent occurrence, which happens after salvation.
For the above reasons, believers
must realize that the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is not the same thing
as salvation (justification). Yes, the Holy Bible does give
examples of people who are baptized with the Holy Spirit at the same
time as their salvation (justification), but these instances are not the
norm—they are not ALWAYS what happens. Moreover, only the Baptism of
the Holy Spirit is the fullness of the Holy Spirit, and this fullness
brings great blessing and comfort to believers. Certainly, there are
many believers who can testify that being filled with the Holy Spirit
usually results in a renewed dedication to and an appreciation for God, a
strong desire to share the Gospel of Jesus the Christ, an insatiable
desire to read the Holy Bible, an insatiable desire to
fellowship with other Christians, an insatiable desire to listen to
praise and worship music, and a deeper sense of what it means to worship
God in Spirit and in Truth.
For additional spiritual wisdom, knowledge, and understanding purposes, it is important to note that in Acts, where the Baptism of the Holy Spirit does happen at the time of believers’ salvation, the Holy Bible
is quick to emphasize this point: The apostles KNEW that these
believers were baptized in the Holy Spirit, because the apostles “…heard
them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and extolling and
magnifying God” (Acts 10:46, AMP; cf. Acts 11:15-16).
Without doubt, a believer who has been born from above and has received
salvation (justification) doesn’t need to speak in tongues to verify
that the Holy Spirit now lives inside him or her. However, in the Holy Bible,
God does use believers’ speaking in tongues, as the ONLY COMMON,
visible, physical, outward SIGN (His trademark, seal, brand, mark) that
accompanies the Baptism of the Holy Spirit!
Furthermore, while believers are given the authority (exousia) to be children of God, which happens after they have received their new birth and salvation (cf. John 1:12-13), they only can receive power (dunamis) AFTER the Holy Spirit comes upon them and fills them with the Holy Spirit (cf. Acts 1:8; Acts
2:4). Therefore, the purpose of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit is so
that men and women will become not only children of God, but children of
God who are very much like Jesus the Christ in nature, holiness, and
power. The Baptism of the Holy Spirit, thus, gives believers the same
Father-child relationship possibilities like God and His only beloved
Son have, and gives believers the same power ministry like Jesus the
Christ had in His earthly ministry.
Put differently, being “sealed”
with the Holy Spirit guarantees that the FULL amount of believers’
inheritance will be paid—that believers not only will receive the
fullness of the Holy Spirit (life full of the power of God) but also
subsequently will receive the TOTAL sanctifying work by which Jesus the
Christ saves them from sin. In particular, they will complete the three
stages of Salvation: Justification (saved from the penalty of sin),
Sanctification (being saved from the power of sin), and Glorification
(to be saved in the future from the presence of sin, which is the
promised glorious resurrection).
That’s why it is the Baptism of
the Holy Spirit that makes it possible for the Holy Spirit to “seal”
believers with a sealing that confirms to the world that God’s child has
other-world protection and other-world riches: supernatural power,
spiritual gifts, spiritual fruit, new languages, and so forth, which God
has poured into them. Indeed, these rivers of Living Water are
preserved inside every baptized in the Holy Spirit believer. As earlier
mentioned, only Jesus the Christ can open this “seal,” because He is
Lord and Savior, and believers’ joint-heir to the promised heavenly
inheritance. Through Faith in Him, believers can have access to their
inheritance in this temporal world, as well as in the spiritual realm.
Once again, God wants EVERY
believer to be “sealed,” baptized in the Holy Spirit, with the evidence
of speaking in tongues. This speaking in tongues truth is understood
best in the following verse. The Lord says:
And these attesting signs will accompany those who believe: in My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new languages; ~ Mark 16:17, AMP; (the underlining is this blogger’s emphasis)
Here, the Lord is saying that EVERYONE who is born from above and saved (justified) has received the authority (exousia)
to speak in “new tongues” (a heavenly language or prayer language; a
praise language; and/or a prophetic language). However, not everyone who
receives the Baptism of the Holy Spirit will prophesy or give messages
in various human tongues, and those who can, must have their tongues
interpreted!
The three “new languages” (new tongues) that are evidence of
believers having been “sealed” by the Holy Spirit (baptized with the
Holy Spirit), once again, are: 1. Prayer Tongues; 2. Praise Tongues; and
3. Prophetic Tongues.
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