This is so simple and so good. Makes a great main dish with some veggies or a salad. Also great for a "bbq" chicken sandwich on one of the new sandwich thins. Hope you enjoy!

Cola Chicken

4 skinless boneless chicken breasts
1 cup catsup
1 (12 ounce) can diet cola

Put chicken in nonstick skillet
. Pour catsup and diet cola over the top. Bring to boil. Cover, reduce heat and cook for 45 minutes.

Uncover, turn up the heat and continue to cook until the sauce becomes thick and adheres to the chicken.

4 servings - 4 WW points per serving

Romans 1:16 (New International Version)

16 I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes: first for the Jew, then for the Gentile.

This morning I feel led to share this with you. It is important as we travel on this journey to let others know that we are not ashamed of the gospel of Christ. It is important that we acknowledge Jesus as the source of all we have and do. It is imperative that we share this gospel along the way.

The gospel that brings us hope is the same gospel that changes lives. We are to carry that gospel wherever we go, unashamedly. Our involvement in Biggest Loser offers a great opportunity to share that gospel. Think about it, we are trying to change our lives. Shouldn't we try to change lives around us? Of course we should.

So, let's not be ashamed to share the gospel at every opportunity. At the gym. At the grocery. On the pews at church. In our homes. Everywhere. Everyday. Let's really see lives changed!

If you don't know or understand this gospel, I would love to talk with you. Just send me a message and we will discuss the power that is the gospel!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Alright, I am tired of snow and cold! It is time to fire up the grill and have a great burger! Add a homemade, low point cole slaw and iced tea and you've got a perfect cook out meal.

Ranch Turkey Burger Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 lb lean, ground turkey
- 1 packet of Hidden Valley Ranch Dressing Dry Mix
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced

Directions:
In a bowl, combine all the ingredients. Form into 4 patties. Spray a frying pan with cooking spray. Cook the patties until done. Serve on hamburger buns or wrap in iceberg lettuce for a carbohydrate free hamburger recipe version.
NOTE: Serving with hamburger buns will add additional points to the recipe – make sure to factor that in!

Entire Recipe makes 4 servings
Serving size is 1 patty
Each serving = 3 Point Total

James 4:7 (New International Version)

7Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.


Submit to God. Let Him be in charge. Give Him the lead in all you do. Give up. Give in. Submit.

This morning I just want you to meditate on this verse. Submit. Resist. Very simple, one word instructions. There is not much to say on these simple words other than they are the perfect way to travel on our journey.

Submit to God.
Resist the devil.
Simple. Powerful.

Meditate on this verse today and allow it to become a part of you. Hide this verse in your heart. Allow God to speak to you through this verse as your day progresses.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

This is especially for my great friend and "Narrow Weigh" team member Teresa Baumgardner. Now you can make a peanut butter pie that you can keep in the house!!



Luscious Peanut Butter Pie - 5 Points

Recipe By :JoAnna M. Lund
Serving Size : 8 Preparation Time :0:00
Categories : Pies

Amount Measure Ingredient -- Preparation Method
-------- ------------ --------------------------------
1 package JELL-O sugar free instant vanilla pudding
mix -- (4 serving size)
2/3 cup nonfat dry milk powder -- Carnation
1 1/3 cups water
6 tablespoons Peter Pan reduced fat chunky peanut butter
1 cup Cool Whip Lite -- divided, see directions
1 (6 oz) Keebler graham cracker piecrust
2 teaspoons chocolate syrup
2 teaspoons caramel syrup

1. In a medium bowl, combine dry pudding mix, dry milk powder, and water. Mix well using a wire whisk. Blend in peanut butter and 1/3 cup Cool Whip Lite. Spread mixture evenly into piecrust. Refrigerate at least 2 hours. Just before serving, spread remaining 2/3 cup Cool Whip Lite over top and drizzle with chocolate syrup and caramel syrup. Cut into 8 servings. Freezes well.

Mary's Notes: I did not use a pie crust and only used the chocolate syrup. Also used Fat Free Cool Whip. When I don't use the pie crust, I still make it in a pie plate because it makes it so easy to cut and then serve using a spoon to scoop it out. I put it into custards cups for eating. Hal said that this was "yummy". Definitely would make it again. Very easy recipe and very tasty too.

Serving size (1 slice)
According to the cookbooklet:
Per serving: 230 Cal, 10g Fat, 6g Pro, 29g Carb, 391mg Sod, 1g Fib
Healthy Exchanges: 1 Protein, 1 Fat, 1/4 Skim Milk, 1 Slider, 9 Opt. Cal.
Diabetic Exchanges: 1 1/2 Fat, 1 Starch, 1 Carbohydrate, 1/2 Meat
Weight Watcher Points: 5

Psalm 62:1-2 (New Living Translation)

Psalm 62
For Jeduthun, the choir director: A psalm of David.
1 I wait quietly before God,
for my victory comes from him.
2 He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will never be shaken.

When I read this this morning I felt it was perfect for a Monday morning. Mondays can be rough. For many of us it is the start of a new work week. The day it all starts again. The end of the weekend. A day we dread.

Reading this verse, though, puts it in a different perspective for me. I am going to look at Monday as a chance to start over. Time for a new beginning. Another opportunity to face the challenges that life presents. Another chance to see God at work as my rock, my protector.

I am reminded by this passage that God brings victory and He provides protection. I do not have to fear this journey because He travels with me and protects me along the way. My hope is that you will accept the protection and provision of God. Allow Monday to be the day when you trust Him to make the journey a success.

He brings the victory! He provides the protection! He is awesome!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

This is a delicious way to get some dessert and stay low in points.


Crustless Punkin Pie

Ingredients:

1 can pumpkin (15 oz)
1 can evaporated skim milk (12 oz)
3/4 cup egg substitute (or 3 egg whites)
1/2 tsp salt
3 tsp pumpkin pie spice
1 tsp vanilla
2/3 C. Splenda (or sugar) or to taste


Instructions:

Combine all ingredients and beat until smooth.
Pour into a 9" sprayed pie pan
Bake at 400 for 15 minutes, and then at 325 for 45 minutes or until a knife inserted in center comes out clean.

Serves 8
Whole Pie: 8 points (or ONE pt. for 1/8 pie)

Joshua 24:15 (New Living Translation)
15 But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.”

Who or what are you serving?

Is it the television? The computer? A video game system? Books? Your family? Your physical appetites?

We have many things around us that we can serve. Many things we can place before God in our lives. Many ways we can serve something or even ourselves instead of God. We can be guilty of serving our desires. It's time for that to change.

We must put aside those things that take the place of God in our lives. Whether it be food or people or some thing, there is a decision we need to make. Are we going to serve that thing or those people or are we going to serve God? Are we going to put our trust in a diet? Are we going to depend upon a television program to take care of us?

The time has come to get serious about serving God. We must choose to serve Him. The results will be out of this world!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Add some steamed veggies and a tossed salad and this would be a very satisfying meal.


Crockpot Chicken and Rice

Source of Recipe

Internet

List of Ingredients



1 (10 3/4 oz) can Healthy Request Cream of Chicken Soup
1 (1oz) package dry onion soup mix
2 cups water
2 cups (6oz) uncooked instant rice
16 oz chicken breast, skinned and boned and cut into 36 pieces
1 cup sliced canned mushroom, drained
1/8 tsp black pepper

Recipe


Spray a slow cooker with cooking spray. Combine in the crockpot the chicken soup, dry onion soup mix, water and uncooked rice. Stir in the chicken, mushrooms and pepper. Cover and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours. Gently stir just before serving.

6 servings (1 cup)
3 POINTS each .................................

1 Chronicles 11:9 (New International Version)
9 And David became more and more powerful, because the LORD Almighty was with him

Do you feel the need for some power? Are you feeling a little drained? Maybe very drained? Are you beginning to believe it is time to just give up on this journey because you don't have the strength to go on?

No doubt David felt the same way at some point. There had to be times that he just wanted to give up. I would tend to believe that happened on the days he felt like he was in charge. Those times when he felt he was responsible for his own strength.

But his power did not come from himself. He did not have power because he declared it so. He had power because the Lord was with him. The presence of God in his life gave him strength and power. That same Lord is present in our lives.

We can tap into the power that David knew. We can turn to and depend upon God to give us power to make this journey. He will make it possible to continue when we feel we cannot take another step.

Remember, God is with us and He gives us power. He is such an awesome God!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Have not tried this yet, but it sounds like it would be a great way to start a cool morning.


Baked French Toast With Apples


Yields 4 servings | Points per serving: 3

Ingredients:

Toast

1/2 cup eggbeaters (equivalent of 2 eggs)
1/2 cup skim milk
1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
4 slices Light 100% whole wheat bread, cut into cubes or quarters
(I recommend Arnold Bakery Light - only 80 calories, .5 g. fat, and 5 g. fiber for 2 slices)
2 medium apples, pared, cored and diced

Topping

3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons firmly packed dark brown sugar
2 teaspoons reduced-calorie tub margarine (I recommend "Country Crock plus Calcium and Vitamins")
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon


Directions:
Preheat oven to 350º F. Spray two 5x3" loaf pans with nonstick cooking spray.

To make toast, in medium bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add milk, brown sugar and cinnamon; stir to blend. Add bread cubes and apples, stirring gently; let stand until bread has absorbed all liquid, 2-3 minutes.

To prepare topping, in small bowl, combine flour, brown sugar, margarine and cinnamon with fork.

Divide the bread mixture evenly between the prepared loaf pans; sprinkle each evenly with topping. Bake 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown. Allow to cool slightly and serve warm.

Yields 2 loaves
Serving size = 1/2 loaf


Nutritional Info: (per serving) 182 Calories, 3 g. Total Fat, 4 g. fiber


Original Source: Dotti's Weight Loss Zone
(I made my version lower in points than hers though, by using Eggbeaters and a low-fat wheat bread.)

Dotti's Comments: If you're not a morning person, then prepare this healthy version of the classic the night before. Simply make the bread mixture and topping separately, cover and chill. All you'll have to do is combine and bake in the morning.

Romans 8:28 (New Living Translation)
28 And we know that God causes everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them.

The eating plan gets so confusing. Eat this. don't eat this. This is okay, in moderation. Don't eat this food with that food. You have to get the combination of foods correct.

The exercise plan is just as confusing. Cardio on odd days. Strength training on even days. Or is it the other way? 3 set of 15 reps. 3 super sets. Reach your fat burning zone with your heart rate.

It can all become a jumble in our heads. We get confused and confounded. Sometimes to the point of wanting to just give up. We'll never get this figured out.

However, God says that if we love Him we do not have to worry about these things. Now I am not pushing a secret formula here. Just the fact that God can make it all work for His people. We need to quit leaning on what we know and instead lean on Him. He can make all things work together for our good. Exercise. Eating. Determination. Desire. Results.

He can do it for us. He can lead us on a great and enjoyable journey.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

One word---DELICIOUS!!!!!!


Low-Fat Strawberry Pretzel Salad

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yields: 9 servings | 2.5 points per serving

Ingredients:

30 fat-free pretzels (3 servings of any brand fat free pretzel)
2 Tbsp light brown sugar
2 Tbsp reduced-fat Margarine
8 oz fat-free cream cheese
8 oz fat-free frozen whipped topping
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 small box sugar-free strawberry JELL-O (4 servings)
1 cup strawberries, sliced

Directions:

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Coarsely break-up pretzels (using hands or rolling pin). In a medium bowl, mix together pretzels, margarine and brown sugar. Place in bottom of 8x8 or 9x9 baking dish. Bake at 400 for 15 mins.

Please note: In this low-fat version, the pretzel layer is not as "crust like" as in the real thing. But this is much lower in fat than the real thing, which calls for 2/3 cup butter and 1 cup sugar!!! :)

In a medium bowl, use hand-mixer to combine whipped topping, cream cheese and powdered sugar til smooth. After pretzel crust has cooled, spread cream cheese mixture over top.

In a small bowl, mix 1 cup hot (not boiling) water and 1 box of strawberry jello. Stir til dissolved. Slice strawberries and add to jello. Let sit til cool, but not formed. Pour on top of cream cheese mixture. Set in fridge for several hrs til set.

Yields: 9 squares (2.5 points per square)

Nutritional Info: (per square): 125 calories, 1.2 g. fat, 0.7 g. fiber (2.5 points)


Source: Weight Watchers Recipe Review Board

Psalm 116:1-2 (New Living Translation)

Psalm 116
1 I love the Lord because he hears my voice
and my prayer for mercy.
2 Because he bends down to listen,
I will pray as long as I have breath!

This morning I return with a renewed purpose. After much crying out on my part I feel the Lord has listened. I believe I have listened also. I also believe others have done much praying on my behalf. I am so very thankful for that.

For each of us the journey can become very difficult. For each of us it may seem impossible to take another step in our walking or running. It may seem like we can not do one more rep in our strength training. We cannot muster the energy for one more kick in our cardio. We just want to give up.

It is when we reach this point that we must remember that God will hear us when we call. When we beg Him for mercy He listens. I read this verse as saying He does what is necessary to hear us. It says He bends down to listen. Apparently He really wants to hear what we have to say. Then He not only hears but He listens. He has mercy on us.

Prayer has much power. Power that comes from the one who listens and hears. Power from God Himself, the source of our strength and power. Thank you God for hearing our prayers!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

I will not be posting for a couple of days. I need some time to get my head and heart together. In other words, I need to get myself back on track. I have been posting for you but not taking my own words to heart. Time for that to change.

I will return on Monday Feb. 22, 2010. In the meantime please keep me in your prayers.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

1 & 2 Points Per 1/4 Pie



...Here's one that's good. The person that gave me the recipe said it's 1 pt per serving (which is 1/4 of the pie!)

4 cups sliced strawberries

1 box sugar free, fat free vanilla COOK and serve pudding (NOT instant)

1 box sugar free strawberry jello



Line pie plate with berries. Cook pudding, using WATER (NOT milk) per package directions. Add the box of jello. Cool, and pour over strawberries. Refrigerate until set. Serve with fat free cool whip

Serves 4. 1/4 of the pie is 1 pt



1 pkg white chocolate sugar free, fat free instant pudding

1 box sugar free strawberry jello

1 cup milk

4 cups sliced strawberries



Line pie plate with strawberries. Mix jello with 1 cup boiling water. In another bowl, mix pudding with 1 cup milk until almost set. Stir into jello and pour over the top of the strawberries. Refrigerate until set.

Serves 4. 1/4 of the pie is 2 pts

Philippians 3:7 (New Living Translation)

7 I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done.

Chocolate. Gravy and biscuits. Cheesecake. Fried chicken. BBQ. Birthday cake with icing flowers. Chicken and dumplings. Bacon and eggs. Meat loaf. Mashed potatoes. Banana splits. Tiramisu. Lasagna.

This list of favorite foods could go on and on. This is just the beginning of the list of foods many of us would find valuable. Foods we would say we don't want to live without. But what are they really worth?

When we stop and think about Christ and his acts of love toward us how can these things have any value? How can anything?

Jesus paid a high price so that we would not have to be slaves to these foods or anything else for that matter. His sacrifice bought our freedom. He made these things worthless in comparison to Him and His love for us.

When you think about it, how could any of the foods I listed or anything else of this world ever satisfy us like Jesus?

If you don't know this Jesus I speak of I would love to tell you what I know of Him and His love for you! Just ask!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

I don't know about you, but I love a good hot cobbler on a cold night. This one is very easy to make and even easier to enjoy. A little "legal" ice cream would be a great addition. Just remember to add those points.


Diet Watcher Cobbler

2 (16 ounce) bags any frozen fruit
1 (18.25 ounce) box yellow cake mix
1 (12 ounce) can diet Sprite or diet 7-Up

Place both bags of frozen fruit into a 13 x 9-inch baking dish (do not thaw). Sprinkle dry cake mix over the top of frozen fruit. Pour entire can of diet sprite or diet 7-Up over mixture. Cover with foil and bake 20 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 40 minutes.

12 servings

1 serving equals 3 WW points

Romans 7:18-19 (New Living Translation)

18 And I know that nothing good lives in me, that is, in my sinful nature. I want to do what is right, but I can’t. 19 I want to do what is good, but I don’t. I don’t want to do what is wrong, but I do it anyway.

We know the right thing to do. We know the right way to eat. At least, we ought to by now. We have sat through several speakers providing us with information on exercise and diet. We are getting the idea when it comes to portion sizes. We are learning that just watching exercise videos is not enough.

But........

Knowing the right way is often not quite enough.

We have the desire to do the right thing. We want to get back to a healthy body living a healthy lifestyle. We do not lack the desire to make the necessary changes.

But........

Having the desire is often not quite enough.

We know the right things. We know what we need to do. We want to do just that. But we just don't do it. We fail to do what we need or know to do. We fall victim to our sinful nature.

On our own we cannot do the right thing. On our own we cannot make the right choices. We need guidance. We need direction. We need God. With Him we can succeed at those things we must do to make our journey. Alone we will fail.

Overcome the failures of the past by allowing God to lead you along on this journey. He will not let you down.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

This is delicious! "Nuff said!

One Dish Chicken & Rice

Source of Recipe

WeightWatchers.com

List of Ingredients

1 can cream of mushroom soup -- Campbell's 98% FF
1 cup water
3/4 cup white rice, regular -- uncooked
1/4 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 teaspoon garlic salt -- my own addition
4 chicken breast halves -- skinned and boned

Recipe

In 2-qt. shallow baking dish, mix soup, water, rice, paprika and pepper. Place chicken on rice mixture. Sprinkle with additional paprika and pepper. Cover. Bake at 375 degrees for 45 minutes or until chicken and rice are done. For Creamier rice, increase water to 1 1/3 cups.

POINTS: 6 SERVINGS: 4 .................................

1 John 3:7a (New International Version)

7 Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray.

I was reading this morning and this part of this verse jumped out at me. At last Thursday's Biggest Loser meeting we were informed that 60% of us have gained since the beginning of the program. Nobody was very pleased with that. Well, nobody except the 40% who are losing.

The reason this verse caught my attention was because of that announcement. I wonder how many of us might go looking for a quick fix to our situation. Will some of us fall for false claims from infomercials? Are any of us going to seek out the latest fad diet in order to get the percentages under control?

Be careful. There is always a new plan, another video, a pill, a potion, a promise that just wants to detour us on our journey. Something to cause our focus to go from better health to only losing weight. Stick with a safe plan and a safe exercise regimen. Do not allow yourself to be ran off the road by anyone or anything.

This is a time to remember the value of your team members and other fellow travelers. Lean on the fellowship of the group to help you keep from being detoured. Together the journey can be made. Together we can stay on the right path.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Here is a recipe from one of our "Narrow Weigh" team members, Beth Mangus. Sounds delicious and with all the snow out there this morning it sounds like a good idea!
So you can "soup it up" with this one!

Creamy Chicken Spinach Soup (from one of the WW cookbooks):


1 (9 ounce) package refrigerated cheese tortellini
1 (14 1/2 ounce) can fat-free, less sodium chicken broth
2 (10 3/4 ounce) cans condensed reduced-fat, reduced sodium cream of chicken soup
1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
1 (9-10 ounce) can chicken breast
2 cups fat free skim milk
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/4 teaspoon pepper

Cook tortellini in Dutch oven according to package directions, using 1 can broth instead of water. Add soup and remaining ingredients, stirring well.

Bring to a boil; cover, reduce heat to medium, and cook until thoroughly heated. Yield: 6 (1 1/3 cup) servings, 6 WW points each.

Per serving: calories 300, carbs 35.0, fat 7.0, fiber 2.6, protein 24.7

Also, you can use fresh spinch, and we like to add extra spinach for extra veggies, plus spinach is "free" on WW and it's filling!

1 John 5:14 (New Living Translation)
14 And we are confident that he hears us whenever we ask for anything that pleases him.

As I read this verse my reaction is different than you might expect. I don't read this and think about Him giving all I ask of Him. I do not see this as a promise that my requests will be fulfilled.

Instead, I read this and notice that it says we have to ask. There has to be an action on our part. We have to talk to God. We cannot just assume He knows our needs. He does, of course, but He wants us to communicate them to Him.

Spend some time everyday talking with God. You will find that He is a very good listener. He wants to hear from you. He wants you to share your worries and concerns as well as your wants and needs. Like a parent, God is just waiting to hear from His children.

When you spend time talking to God about this journey to a healthier you it will become clear that He is there with you. You do not travel alone. Reach out to Him in prayer and see that change is going to happen. Eating habits can change. Exercise habits can change. Attitudes can change. I have heard it said that prayer changes things but I have come to believe that prayer does not change things. My experience is that prayer changes me.

Prayer is one of the main tools God uses to communicate with us. It is through prayer that we can ask, be answered, and experience the power of our loving God.
Want God to hear you? Just ask!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

I must apologize for the missing posts. I had to make a trip to Cincinnati very early Saturday morning to visit my mother in the hospital. We returned very late that evening. I woke this morning with a very bad sinus headache. I will get things back together and post a new devotion and recipe tomorrow.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

After mentioning cheesecake in today's devotion I thought this looked like a good choice for today's recipe.


Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake




Source of Recipe

equal.com

List of Ingredients



CRUST:
1-1/4 cups vanilla wafer crumbs
4 tablespoons stick butter or margarine, melted
2 tablespoons Equal® Spoonful*

CHEESECAKE:
3 packages (8 ounces each) reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
3/4 cup Equal® Spoonful**
2 eggs
2 egg whites
2 tablespoons cornstarch
1 cup reduced fat sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla
1 ounce unsweetened chocolate, melted, slightly cooled
1 tablespoon fat-free milk
Chocolate curls (optional)

* May substitute 3 packets Equal sweetener
** May substitute 18 packets Equal sweetener

Recipe


For Crust, mix vanilla wafer crumbs, butter and 2 tablespoons Equal®. Press onto bottom and 1/2-inch up side of a 9-inch springform pan.

Bake in preheated 325° F oven 10 minutes. Cool on wire rack while preparing cheesecake.

For Cheesecake, beat cream cheese and 3/4 cup Equal® in mixing bowl on medium speed of mixer until smooth and well combined. Mix in eggs, egg whites and cornstarch. Fold in sour cream and vanilla until combined. Remove 1/2 cup cheesecake batter. Pour remaining batter over baked crust.

Add melted chocolate and fat-free milk to 1/2 cup reserved cheesecake batter; mix well. Place spoonfuls of chocolate mixture on top of cheesecake. Using tip of knife or spatula, gently swirl chocolate batter into cheesecake.

Bake in preheated oven 45 to 50 minutes or until center of cake is almost set. Cool on wire rack. Gently run metal spatula around rim of pan to loosen cake. Let cheesecake cool completely. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight before serving. To serve, remove side of pan. Garnish top of cheescake with chocolate curls, if
desired. Cut cake into wedges. 16 Servings.

Calories 164 Protein 7g Carbohydrate 8g Fat 11g Cholesterol 57mg Sodium 235 mg Fiber 1g
Food Exchanges : 1 milk, 2 fat

Weight Watcher Points - 4 Points*
Calculated with a Weight Watcher calculator

Philippians 3:7 (New Living Translation)

7 I once thought these things were valuable, but now I consider them worthless because of what Christ has done.

I once thought that eating whatever I wanted to eat was okay. I once believed it just did not matter what I put into my body. I once figured it was important not to deny myself the treats I felt I deserved. Does any of this sound familiar?

Most of us have probably given food a larger place in our lives than it deserved. We have used food to comfort our sorrows. We have used it as a way to celebrate achievements. Maybe we have even used it as a reward when we have reached a certain weight loss goal. However we have used food we are guilty of considering it as having a certain high value.

Paul reminds us in this verse that the things we once thought were of value are worthless in the light of Jesus. In other words, who needs a bacon cheeseburger when we have Jesus? Where is the value in a cheesecake when we look at Jesus as the gift He is? When looked at in this way there is just no comparison. The true value of anything in this life pales when it is measured against this standard.

Look to Jesus for value and worth not to things or food. He will never disappoint you. He will never leave you wanting just one more bite to be satisfied.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

This is a very easy but tasty white chili. It is very good with some baked tortilla chips and maybe a dollop of low fat or fat free sour cream (just remember to count the extra points). Enjoy!


White Chicken Chili

Source of Recipe

Internet

List of Ingredients



6 3oz boneless chicken breasts
2 19oz jars of Picante sauce (the original poster suggested one mild and one medium)
49 oz chicken broth
48oz canned Great Northern beans
1 tsp. cumin
1 tsp. garlic powder

Recipe


Boil the chicken and shred the meat. Combine all ingredients in a large pan. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20 minutes. Simmer longer if you want the soup to cook down a bit.

15 servings (1 cup each)
2 POINTS .................................

2 Corinthians 12:9 (New Living Translation)
9 Each time he said, “My grace is all you need. My power works best in weakness.” So now I am glad to boast about my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ can work through me.

This verse is speaking very strongly to me this morning. For many reasons I need reminded that His grace is enough. There are many things going on around me and I just need to remember He is in control. I feel like this morning's post is actually more for me than for anyone else. I hear God speaking to my spirit this morning.

As I am sitting here it is becoming clearer to me that His grace is not only all I need but it is exactly what I need. I cannot handle the things that bother me. I cannot fix the problems I find in my life. I cannot find a desire to continue on my journey to better health.

But, I praise God for this right now, I don't have to fix anything or find any solutions. I do not have to seek the desire to get healthy. I just have to admit I am weak and need Him to help me. My weakness allows His power to show through me and to me.

My prayer today is that I would be wise enough to admit my weakness and humble enough to allow Him to work. That is my prayer for you also. His grace is all we need. We must not forget that.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

This is so good and so very easy. I usually add a can of mushrooms (0 points) to this about 30 minutes before it is finished cooking.

Chicken Stroganoff - Crockpot Method

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients

1 pound frozen boneless skinless chicken breasts
1 can fat free cream of mushroom soup
16 oz. carton fat free sour cream
1 envelope dry onion soup mix

Put frozen chicken in bottom of crockpot. Mix soup, sour cream,
onion soup mix and pour over chicken. Cook on low for 7 hours.
Makes 6 servings. (serve it over rice or noodles, but be sure to add those points)

POINTS: 4

Ephesians 4:29 (New Living Translation)

29 Don’t use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.

We all know that we occasionally need some encouragement. We need a little push to get over a hump in the road as we make our journey. We need to hear a kind word.

Just as we know we have the need for encouragement, we must realize that those on the journey with us have the same need. The kind words we want to hear are also wanted by our fellow travelers.

Let's encourage each other as we continue toward better health. The going gets rough. The way seems harder and harder. We all face the desire to quit. Again, we just need a little push.

We must live out this verse daily. For ourselves as well as others. We need each other. Find a kind word of encouragement to share today. It will make the journey easier for you and for those you share with.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

The weather lately has me in the mood for good soup. This recipe makes a very good way to chase the chill. Warning: It is very peppery because of the gravy mix. You may want to experiment with another brand, just watch the points.

Potato Soup

Ingredients:

1 bag Ore Ida O'Brien Hashbrowns (16 oz., frozen)
4 cans fat free chicken broth
1 pkg. McCormick Country Gravy Mix

Spray pan with Pam. Saute potatoes 10 minutes, stirring gently.
Add broth and bring to a boil. Prepare gravy mix according to pkg. directions.
Add to potatoes and broth. Simmer 20-30 minutes.

SERVING SIZE: 1 cup soup

POINTS: 2

Note: You can use the regular Ore-Ida Hashbrowns that do not have the peppers and onions. The soup will be just as good!

Matthew 5:6 (New International Version)

6 Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,
for they will be filled.

Are you still feeling as if you are not getting enough to eat? Does it seem like no matter what you eat it just isn't enough? Are you just not getting satisfied? Are just not feeling full? Are you about ready to abandon this journey?

Maybe you're eating the wrong thing. Maybe you are trying to be satisfied with and by the wrong food. Could it be you are only feeding your body? This verse makes it clear that is not enough.

This verse from the Beatitudes addresses just that subject. In order to be truly filled and satisfied we must feed our spirit. We must hunger for the righteousness or goodness of God. It is only by feasting on His goodness that we will be filled in such a way that we are beyond satisfied. The things or foods of this world will never be enough. Only the presence of God in our lives can truly fill us.

Feast on God's righteousness and never hunger again. Now there is the source of true strength for this journey.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Here is a great soup to chase away the winter chill!
It is delicious!

6 Can Tortilla Soup

Created by Halfmysize.com, Average user rating / 4 1 Users Voted
Ingredients
At a glance
Main Ingredient
Chicken
Difficulty
Very Easy
Soups
Soup
Serves
9Serves - 9
Points - 2

1 can black beans
1 can corn
1 can rotel original
1 12.5 oz. can fat free chicken breast
2 cans chicken broth
Methods/steps
Drain the chicken, beans, and corn add all ingrediants in a soup pot and bring to boil. Lower heat and simmer for about 15 minutes.

Additional Tips
This is great with fat free tortillas, or topped with fat free sour cream or cheese. Just don't forget to count your points!

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (New International Version)

9 Two are better than one,
because they have a good return for their work:

10 If one falls down,
his friend can help him up.
But pity the man who falls
and has no one to help him up!

Are you trying to undertake this journey all by yourself? Are you of the opinion you don't need anybody's help? Maybe you need to rethink your stance.

It is important to have someone along on the journey with you. This person can act as an accountability partner. This friend can help keep you on track during the journey. This person can help you find the strength you need to continue when the way becomes rough. This can be the person who helps you up when you stumble.

If you have not found a person to be this friend for you it is time to find this person. This passage shows the need and value of a traveling companion for this journey.

My prayer today is that you find this friend and that you be this friend for someone. THe two of you can make the journey seem less daunting.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Here is a quick and easy low point soup that is delicious. I will sometimes add some peas or green beans, just remember to figure in the points for any additions. I also look for "no salt added" versions of the canned veggies. It is important to keep a check on our sodium intake. I also recommend Mrs. Dash Table Blend for seasoning instead of salt.

Five Can Soup

Source: Del Monte

WW points: 3 for the entire pot

Makes 7-8 cups

1 (14.5 ounce) can Del Monte Fresh Cut Whole New potatoes, drained and cubed
1 (14.5 ounce) can Del Monte Fresh Cut Sliced Carrots, drained
1 (14.5 ounce) can Del Monte Fresh Cut Zucchini with Italian-Style Tomato Sauce
1 (14.5 ounce) can Del Monte Fresh Cut Diced tomatoes with Basil, Garlic and Oregano
1 (14 ounce) can chicken or beef broth

Combine all ingredients in large pot. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat and simmer 3 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

1 John 3:7a (New International Version)

7Dear children, do not let anyone lead you astray.

Is there someone trying to sabotage you on the journey? Somebody who constantly offers things that you are trying to avoid? That certain skinny friend who says just one won't mess you up? There WILL be people just like that in your life. They cannot be eliminated, not legally anyway.

This verse reminds me that it is my choice whether these people succeed or not. It is ultimately up to me as to whether or not they lead me astray. When these people are offering you things it may be completely innocent. It may also be an intentional attempt to cause you to stumble on the journey. Whatever their motive we are the ones responsible for how we react.

This verse states our necessary response very simply. Do not let it happen. Do not give in. Do not fall for it. Do not be led astray. Take control.

Jesus in you can help you do what you need to do.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Some have asked me to share some recipes that I am using to help me along on my journey. I will be posting some on a random basis. If the response is good I may increase the postings. Since I am doing Weight Watchers the recipes will include points values that are accurate to my knowledge.

Today I am sharing one of my favorite recipes. When I make this I also use a frozen Smart Ones of Santa Fe beans and rice and also add a small side salad.

Mexican Chicken Breasts
4 pts per serving

1 pkg Taco seasoning (lowest sodium amount possible)
4 (4 oz) chicken breasts
1 cup salsa
1/4 cup non-fat sour cream

Put chicken & taco seasoning in plastic bag; shake and coat well. Place in
sprayed (nonstick cooking spray) casserole dish. Bake 30 minutes in a
375 degree oven. Top with salsa about 5 minutes before done, then top with sour cream.

Serves 4; 4 pts each

Hope you enjoy!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Psalm 103
A psalm of David.
1 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
with my whole heart, I will praise his holy name.
2 Let all that I am praise the Lord;
may I never forget the good things he does for me.
3 He forgives all my sins
and heals all my diseases.
4 He redeems me from death
and crowns me with love and tender mercies.
5 He fills my life with good things.
My youth is renewed like the eagle’s!

Sometimes we just have to stop on our journey and concentrate on praising God. Forget the diet. Put aside the workout. Let go of any worry and just praise Him.

When we stop to think about praising God it becomes more than apparent that we have more reasons than imaginable to do so. If we tried to list them we would be busy for all eternity. God is just so good to us and giving Him our praise is a great way to show our appreciation.

This journey toward more healthful living is going to be difficult. There are going to be many times when we do not feel like praising God for anything. There will be days we just want to have a big pity party and not even think about God or His many blessings on our lives.

Those days are the ones when we should remember this Psalm and devote all we are to praising God and thanking Him for everything. We should even praise Him for the difficulties, for it is through those trials that God is growing us into the people He wants us to be.

Praise God with all you are. Praise Him with all your heart.
Just praise!!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

2 Thessalonians 2:16-17 (New International Version)

16May our Lord Jesus Christ himself and God our Father, who loved us and by his grace gave us eternal encouragement and good hope, 17encourage your hearts and strengthen you in every good deed and word.

The journey continues. We are still heading toward a healthier body. Some days the journey is more difficult than other days. Some days we want to quit. Some days we just need a little encouragement to keep us going. Some days we need a lot.

We can encourage each other when the opportunity arises. We should. It is important that we support each other on the way to the finish line. But to be quite honest, that is sometimes just not enough. More is needed, more is desired.

When we reach that point is when we need to remember this passage. This is a great reminder that Jesus is always there to hold us. He is eternally there to encourage us and support us. Allow Him to help you through the hard times. Do not forget that He wants to hold you in His arms and let you know you can do this.

Thank you, Jesus, for your help, support, and love!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Psalm 46

1 God is our refuge and strength,
an ever-present help in trouble.
2a Therefore we will not fear

Fear? On the journey to better health? Oh yeah. There are many things to fear on the journey. There are many reasons why we would need a refuge. Also many reasons why we would need to take refuge with God.

The fears can be very personal but they are also common to all of us on the journey. Fear of giving up a favorite food item. Fear of change. Fear of failure. We have been comfortable in our lifestyles and we are scared of releasing the bad habits. We can be afraid of never remembering the overflow of information concerning a healthy lifestyle.

All of our fears can come together and overwhelm us. Those fears can cause us to want to give up. We may handle our fear by walking away from it. We just give up because we are afraid of failing.

It is in these times of fear that we must turn to God. We must allow Him to handle our fears. We must take refuge in Him. With Him the storms can be calmed. With Him the storms can be withstood. With Him we have the help we need.

I cannot imagine trying to make this journey on my own. I know my fear of this journey would be paralyzing if I did not have God with me. I hope and pray you will remember He is there for you also.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Galatians 5:7-8 (New International Version)

7You were running a good race. Who cut in on you and kept you from obeying the truth? 8That kind of persuasion does not come from the one who calls you

Have you stumbled? Have you missed workouts? Are you failing to stick to your eating plan? If your answer to any of these is yes you may want to examine the reason. In other words, what got in your way?

As you look for a cause for your missteps along the way make sure you look in the right places. There is a reason why we stumble. That reason is inside us. However that reason is not from God. He does not want you to stumble.

Find the reason. Often the answer to who got in the way is ourselves. We can be our own worst enemy when it comes to this journey. We can cause our own stumbles and falls.

If you find yourself being tripped up along the way call out to Jesus. He knows the way. He will keep you on track toward success.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Colossians 4:2 (New Living Translation)

An Encouragement for Prayer
2 Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart.

Just a short reminder this morning. Be devoted to praying during the journey. Keep your mind alert on the journey. Keep your heart thankful for the journey.

The journey may be getting a little rough about now. It may be more and more difficult to continue. Our minds may be wondering toward old habits. We may be far from feeling grateful for anything to do with this journey toward healthier living.

That is why Paul admonishes us to pray here. He knew the value and power of prayer. He had experienced it in his own life. He urges us to do the same.

Pray. Stay in touch with God. Stay tapped into the power. Stay focused on Him. Talk to Him. Listen to Him. Grow closer to Him.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Psalm 62:5-6 (New Living Translation)

5 Let all that I am wait quietly before God,
for my hope is in him.
6 He alone is my rock and my salvation,
my fortress where I will not be shaken.

Wait. Wait quietly. With all that I am. This can be very hard to do. I don't know about you but I am guilty of wanting quick results. I want to see pounds drop after every workout or walk. I want to place all my hope in my "diet" and my training. I want it all and I want it now!

God's word tells us to just wait quietly with all our power and remember He is our hope. He is much more reliable than any diet or workout. He is the ultimate personal trainer. Hope from Him is a faithful hope. A hope worth having. A hope that will not disappoint.

Hope in Him is also solid. Solid like a rock. Not a hope built on sand or mud but built on bedrock. A hope with something to hold it in place. A hope that will stand the bumps and detours of our journey. A hope that will stand.

Allow Him to be your hope and the journey will not seem so long or scary.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Psalm 46:10a (New International Version)

10 "Be still, and know that I am God;

Woke up this morning to nearly 6 inches of snow. I opened my front door to look out and admire the beauty of the snow. While looking at the sparkle of the snow I noticed something. What I noticed was the quiet.

Seems like a good snow has the power to quiet the world. Everything just seems so still. No traffic noise. No barking dogs. Voices are hushed. There is such a calm and peace to the world on a morning like this.

It is in these moments that today's verse comes to mind. Be still. Calm. Quiet. Listening. Then hearing. In the stillness you can hear the gentle voice of God. You can feel His presence. You can know He is God. You can know He is an ever present help on our journey.

Listen to Him as you travel. He will not give you faulty directions. He will reveal Himself. He will keep us as we travel.

Be still.
Listen.
Know.
He is God. He is good.
He loves you!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Proverbs 16:11 (New International Version)

11 Honest scales and balances are from the LORD;
all the weights in the bag are of his making.

When I read this verse I laughed. It made me think that God was referring to portion control when He gave this verse to Solomon.

I was reminded of the times I have fudged on the amounts when I was measuring out some foods. You know what I mean. Using a 1 cup measure to get a 1/2 cup of something and going past the mark and adding just a little more. Or when we use a 1/2 cup measure to mete out a serving of some cereal and allowing it to spill over the measure and into the bowl. We figure that extra doesn't matter. Using our "eyeball" scale to measure a portion of meat and convincing ourselves that a piece of meat the size of a paperback book is equivalent to a deck of cards.

All of these deceptions seem small but they do add up. They can also lead to even bigger deceptions. We can continue cheating ourselves to the point of totally giving up on controlling our portions. Then we end up back where we were when our journey began.

Please allow God to lead you on this journey. Please allow Him to direct your hand when measuring your portions. Honest weights are from Him. Dishonest weights will not lead to success. He wants you to succeed.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Ephesians 6:10 (New Living Translation)

10 A final word: Be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power.

Are you feeling weak? Are you finding it difficult to stay focused? Is it becoming more and more of a challenge to do that workout? Is that certain trigger food calling your name? Are you ready to quit this journey?

I ask those questions because I am very familiar with those situations. I face those same weaknesses daily. I find that I struggle with the strength to continue traveling toward a healthier me. I find it easier and easier to come up with an excuse to stumble on my journey.

The temptations around me can be very strong. The call of the recliner can be very powerful. "Little Debbie" wants a reconciliation. Unhealthy me is easier to be. There are so many signs of my weakness. I would venture to say that this is true for most of us.

Where can we find the strength to overcome these situations?

The source of that strength is Jesus! He is able to resist temptation for us. He is able to call louder to us than the recliner. He has the strength we need to do that workout. We do not need to depend on our own power. We can be strong in Jesus!

Thank Jesus today for the power He provides. Thank Him for the strength to stand. Thank Him for his mighty power. Thank Him for His love and grace. Just thank Him!

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

1 Corinthians 6:12 (New International Version)


12 "Everything is permissible for me"—but not everything is beneficial. "Everything is permissible for me"—but I will not be mastered by anything.

Everything permissible? I can eat whatever I want? Nothing is forbidden?
Wow!! I love this diet!!

Does that sound familiar? Maybe you have said those exact things. Perhaps you have started a new diet and your first concerns were about what you had to give up. You focused on all those foods that some consider "bad" foods. However, this verse gives you a different perspective than most diets.

This verse tells us that all is permissible. The next part, though, is very important. "Not everything is beneficial". Think about that. It may be allowed, but is it good for you? You can eat that, but should you? Puts things in a different light. Puts a large amount of responsibility on our shoulders. We can but should we?

Next, Paul says he will not be mastered by anything. We sahould make that our battle cry. "I will not be mastered by anything!" "I will not be mastered by my appetites!" We should not allow ourselves to become slaves to diets or foods or anything.

It is important to remember this when the road on our journey becomes rough. If we are allowing ourselves to be mastered by anything other than Jesus we will struggle.

Step out of the bondage of your cravings and into the arms of Jesus. He will lead you in the right direction. He is all we need.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (New International Version)

16 "Be joyful always; 17 pray continually; 18 give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus."

These verses help me remember that God wants me to be joyful, prayerful, and thankful. When I was thinking about these verses it became clear to me that God wants me to be "full". In, other words, if I am aware of His will I should be able to be "full". No need to worry about how I will be filled.

I really like the idea of allowing God to fill me up and not having to be filled with food. I do not have to search for the perfect cheesburger or the most delicious cheesecake to fill me up. I just have to concentrate on the blessings of God in my life and remember the power of Jesus Christ. What more could I possibly need.

1 overflowing cup of genuine joy
24 hours of prayer
1 heaping abundance of thanks

Mix all these together and indulge.

This recipe will keep you "full" and focused on God's will. It will see you through the good times and the rough spots on our journey.

My prayer for you today is that you will allow Him to fill you and not look to the world or the grocery store to do that for you.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Read Psalm 23

Our Biggest Loser journey continues. We just made it through a weekend. Those are always difficult. It seems like the weekend is just made for messing up when it comes to a newly started, healthier living plan. Some of us struggle on weekends and allow our guard to drop. Some of us just choose to allow our resolve to relax. Some may even go completely off plan over the weekend.

Now, if you are one who has weekends like that then Monday mornings can be very difficult. It is hard to get back on track when you stray. It can be a real battle to get focused on your plan. I know. I've been there.

I have foud that God knew we would have these struggles. He knew we would need encouragement. He took care of it for us long ago.

His way was to provide a Psalm for the ages. It is probably the most well known passage of scripture. It is what I call my "go to" scripture.

I love to read this Psalm. It reminds me that He is on this journey with me. It reminds me that I am safe with my shepherd. There is a comfort in knowing that I am protected. That protection helps me have the courage to continue.

It is in this Psalm that we are also reminded that whatever valley we walk through we do not walk alone. A nice reminder that we are not on this journey to better health by ourselves. Please allow this Psalm to minister to you today as you continue on our journey.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

John 8:36 (New International Version)
36 "So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

"My chains are gone,
I've been set free.
My God, my savior
Has ransomed me."

Those lines from a beautiful song by Chris Tomlin say it all. Because of Jesus, by His power and His love, I am free! I do not have be be a slave to my old nature. Let me restate that--- I am not a slave to my old nature. He broke the chains!

I have trouble remembering that some days. There are times when my old nature rears its ugly head and tries to make me believe it still owns me. It wants me to give in to temptations for its pleasure. That old nature wants control. Sometimes, I allow it to have that control.

When I realize I have picked up the chains again there is an immediate sense of defeat. In that moment I feel like a complete failure and a slave again. It is a feeling I do not like. But, it is also a feeling I do not have to experience. I just have to lean on His grace.

His grace set me free! His grace rescued me! His grace is amazing to me!
His grace is all I need!!

Today, let us each thank Jesus for His grace. Grace that broke the chains. Grace that is strong enough and sweet enough to keep the chains from being replaced. That grace is amazing. That grace is free. That grace is for you and me.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

"Psalm 141:8 (New Living Translation)

8 I look to you for help, O Sovereign Lord.
You are my refuge; don’t let them kill me."

This morning I have storms fresh on my mind. Last night we had a thunderstorm or two. They were not bad storms but they could have been. When I think of storms I think of the possibility of severe weather. If a really bad storms is approaching it may be necessary to take shelter.

For many of us a bad storm is approaching as we continue on our Biggest Loser journey. That storm could come in the form of temptation or pain from exercise. It could be in the form of new excuses to miss our workout or the lie of being able to eat just one Oreo or Reese's Peanut Butter Cup. Whatever form it takes let Jesus be the shelter for you. He is able to protect you. He WILL help you. Look to Him. He won't let you down.

Declare loudly that He is your refuge!

I also like what the last part of this verse says about not letting them kill me. I am sure the psalmist was writing about people. However, I also believe this could refer to bad habits, fat grams, unhealthy food choices, and temptations. Whatever it may be that could kill us or harm us. Identify that thing in your life and seek refuge from that thing in the sheltering love of Jesus. It is the safest place to be in any storm.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30

Wow! The first week's weigh-in is behind us! Everybody on my team (Narrow Weigh) had a loss or maintained but there were no gainers!! Proud of all of them!!
This first week should show all of us that this can be done. When we are willing to put forth the effort there will be results. When we move, we lose. When we lose, we really win! Don't give up! There is something good ahead.
In the Old Testament book of Jeremiah, God tells us He knows the plans He has for us and that those are plans for our good not for our bad. He knows where He is leading you. So, just let Him lead. He will not lead you in the wrong direction.
This journey is part of His plan for each of us that are part of Biggest Loser #2. As we travel together let us agree to support one another with prayer and friendship.

Peace and Grace,
Don
John 3:30