The Church Jesus Builds

You have heard it said, “That unless the Lord builds the house the laborers labor in vain.” That statement could give you peace or it could put you on edge; it all depends on what your perspectives on God’s plans and on his timetable are. A lot of areas that I witness concerning the church and organized religion leave me not only scratching my head, but also very tired. Like for example, why is it that in the Church of America that we continue doing the same things and utilizing the same methods, but still getting the same ole results. One would define that process as “insanity”. We should change the method, but we should never change the Message. Have we too become the Old Wineskins, which will be unwilling and unable to hold the new wine? You see, Old Wineskins are tough, they are rigid, they are not real flexible and if something like new wine is poured into them, they will immediately burst. Guess what happens then? Everyone realizes that the old wineskin was a major waster of wine. 

It is so very hard not to want to help Jesus build his church. In other words, it is so very hard to keep our hands and noses out of the way as he is attempting to build his church. Jesus, as I read, never met formally with his disciples in a “church” building. Of course, we see him in the synagogues and temples, but it is usually turning over the profits of money changers or healing the lame, only to be scolded by the religious for doing God’s work on the Sabbath. God’s definition of the church is people. I think that many times we are too busy caught up on shrines and buildings that really serve to impress the guy across the street. My question is: do we impress the one that really counts? 

I have also never read in the Bible that BIG churches are the Model of Ministry that we should be attempting to demonstrate. In fact, Jesus preached and ministered to the multitudes, but when it came time to disciple his first church he pulled them aside up the mountainside and sat down and began to teach them (Matt. 5:1). Having a big church in America has to, at times; give us a glimpse into the carnal nature of us all. I know what you’re thinking though: Bigger churches mean more souls. I hear you when you say souls, but are those souls saved and are they being discipled or are they just taking up a pew before the roll call of Hell begins? Many people insinuate to me that they attend larger churches so that they can hide. In doing so, they feel that they don’t have to get involved, so they can sneak in late and sneak out early and if they’ve done their hour on Sunday, then they are good to go. 

The problem with that is, that all too often, those people become dried up fruit that before long will begin to rot on the vine and fall to the ground. The main reason for that has to be for lack of fellowship and discipleship. Well before I make all the Pastors of larger Churches feel angry at my views, I will say that some larger churches have great discipleship programs and they are thriving in the word and life. Take time to pat yourself on the back because you are not the norm. 

I believe what Jesus was trying to show in his Ministry Model was the concept of Mobile Ministry. One author recently titled a book “Ministry in the Marketplace”. I believe it is the Ministry that goes with you everywhere you are. In fact, Ministry is not something you do, but it is an extension of who you are. We need to start churches where life is happening. Why is it that we rush to the freeway to get near the mall, when it is the neighborhoods and the housing projects that need our spiritual presence more? 

Have we yet to realize that the reality is that people are not going to come to our churches because we build a nice building, but we are going to have to bring our churches to where the people are. The traffic in Jackson, TN. is very busy 7 days a week except for around 8 am to 11 am on Sunday. Does anyone care to solve that riddle? The answer is that surveys tell us that 70 percent of people in the South are Christians, but probably only 10 to 15% of those people actually live a life of faith in God and commitment to active discipleship in the faith. 

In response to that alarming statistic, I have a great idea: I think we should cancel next Sunday am services and go door to door and witness to people about Jesus Christ. Some would say, that is a terrible idea!!! Why? I believe their reason for why is that, even though they are in church week after week, they still don’t have the faith and the power to lead others to Christ or into a deeper relationship with Christ. Pastors and Leaders, this is where our discipleship is extremely lacking. 

I have decided to embark on a journey that has been described as both radical and intentional. I am going to use Jesus’s model of ministry and discipleship. And not only that, but I am going to train others to do the same. I am excited and expecting something wonderful to take place as we use simple minds like mine to share God’s heart and words to ordinary people that I know and am about to meet. I purpose to be intentional about my prayer life and about my evangelistic opportunities. I realize that it is not the job of the Senior Pastor of ANY church to do what God has called me to do. I am being called and equipped to do the work of the ministry. Therefore, whether it’s fancy, I don’t care, but as long as it’s FREE; it is what I will share!

How Can I Prevent or Reverse Type II Diabetes?

There’s been a lot of talk lately about diabetes remission. Edward Gregg from the Centers For Disease Control (CDC) summarizes the common thinking of today very well… 

Kind of a long-term assumption really is that once you have diabetes there's no turning back on it, and there's no remission or cure -- Edward Gregg 

However, in a recent study that Edward Gregg and his team at the CDC published in the Journal of The American Medical Association (JAMA), 11.5% of those with Type II Diabetes who participated in a one year program of intensive diet and exercise were found to have blood sugar levels that approached those levels of their “pre-diabetic” state. 

Additionally, those who were more newly diagnosed had a greater chance of falling into the 11.5% group of people who went into remission. The hallmark of the research findings was that weekly accountability and support played just as important a role as diet and exercise. 

This gives hope to those with Type II Diabetes that aggressive lifestyle change & proper accountability can have significant impact on overall health outcomes with Type II Diabetes. It’s no longer a mandatory sentence that has to be accepted. It can be fought, and the battle can be won. 

At Matrix Wellness Solutions, we have had a number of clients who have reduced or stopped their diabetes medications under the close medical supervision that we offer through our weight loss programs. Below is a graph of one such patient.

Upon admission to the clinic, this person had a fasting blood sugar of 260; he was also 320 pounds and taking 60 units of insulin along with two different oral diabetes medications. Over a 6 month period, his blood sugar continued to decline and he lost 70.4 pounds. The end result was that he came off of insulin & one of his oral diabetes medications completely. The other oral medication has been cut in half and we are hopeful that he will be off of this one in the next 3 months. 

During this six-month period, this particular patient was seen on a weekly basis. He was also given dietary education, support & accountability for a customized diet plan with moderate exercise. His lab work and blood sugars were monitored frequently throughout this period and adjustments were made to his medications as needed. 

At Matrix Wellness Solutions we have real people with real results.

If Protein Is “King”, How Much Do I Need?

Most people don’t realize that, as we age, our demand for protein grows. Problematically, as we age, we generally consume less protein. As such, our body’s defenses become weaker which makes us more susceptible to diseases and illnesses. Additionally, without the right amount of protein, we also struggle to maintain healthy blood sugar and insulin control, we feel hungry more often, and we struggle to regulate our weight. 

Sadly, most Americans consume a larger proportion of carbohydrates vs. proteins in their daily diet. This imbalance only accelerates the problems mentioned above and sets us up for failure with regard to our health. Another longstanding trend is to reduce fat intake. While there’s nothing wrong with reducing saturated fats in our diet, going to an extreme low fat diet can be detrimental to your health both physically and emotionally. Low fat diets are notorious for causing depression in those who ascribe to this type of diet modification. 

We must strike a healthy balance between carbohydrates, protein, and fat. In my recent review of current medical research, there is a large amount of evidence that proves the health benefits of a high-protein, low-carbohydrate, moderate -fat diet. These benefits include weight loss, blood sugar regulation, insulin reduction, lower blood pressure, less blood vessel inflammation, and preservation of healthy metabolism. 

There is a quick way to calculate your protein need per day. The formula is as follows: 

Your Weight (in pounds) ÷ 2.2 = Your Weight (in kg.) 

Next… 

Protein Need FOR WOMEN: Your weight in kg. × 0.82 = Amount of Protein Grams/day 

Protein Need FOR MEN: Your weight in kg. × 0.89 = Amount of Protein Grams/day 

When increasing your dietary protein, it’s best to be medically supervised when doing this type of diet, so make sure you drink plenty of water and consult a wellness specialist before embarking on this type of diet.

Fresh Manna Monday

2 Chronicles 13: 1-7 

In the passages above is written a remarkable recount of David’s leadership and heart as he pursued what really mattered in life. In summary, the Ark of God or the presence of God had taken a “backseat” under the leadership of King Saul, David’s predecessor. David knew that what the nation needed was God back in their midst. I really like the way he chose to involve everyone in the decision making. In verses 1 and 2 he met with his commanders and I believe laid out the plan and vision he had for reaching the God-inspired goal he had been given. I believe David had to encourage those of his leadership under him to take ownership in the “task at hand”. I envision David as he enthusiastically and with great energy laid out the plan for his nation as he shared with his immediate leadership. David knew that he needed everyone “on board” if his strategy was to be met with the least resistance from the people. 

After David was successful with encouraging the leaders of Israel, he then went to the people with his plan and once again laid out God’s strategy for the nation. The people emphatically rallied behind David and the leadership and moved forward with the plan to pursue God by reclaiming the Ark of God. The reason that I feel that this is such a great example of Leadership is that David understood the need to communicate clearly and effectively what he knew was God’s heart and direction. Effective communication is such an essential part of being the leaders that God intended for us to be. You may be thinking, “I am not a leader”, but the fact is we are all leaders. If we are parents, we are leaders. If we are aunts or uncles, or even brothers or sisters, we are leaders. In fact, a recognized position does not make us a leader, but if we are a person who gives advice or has influence on even one person then we are leaders. So, I am not sure about you, but this makes me realize that when it comes to my influence on others then I need to make sure I am communicating effectively to ensure that what is really important in life is heard by all who may be following.

Stress Free Living? Is it possible?

Philippians 4:6-8 

One of my favorite scriptures is found in Philippians 4 verses 11-13. It is definitely not my favorite because I am so compliant to the truth found in it, but more so, because it is such a challenge to my personality and lifestyle. Let’s face the facts: We are a busy culture! In our busyness though, are we productive when you compare the effort and amount of stress invested in our daily tasks versus our productivity? The writer encourages us to “Do not be anxious about anything, BUT in prayer and petition, present your requests to God and the peace that passes all understanding will transcend your mind.” 

You may have read some of the same articles that I have read about the effects of stress on the body. But to clarify, not all stressors are bad. God created our bodies to be resilient and to adapt to all types of changing situations; thus another confirmation that we are created in His image. The problem begins when we have “stress overload”. “Stress Overload” can cause the body to exhibit all types of symptoms, including, but not limited to: arthritic type symptoms, joint swelling and pain (fibromyalgia), high blood pressure, obesity, increased anxiety levels, increased pulse rate, fluctuations in blood sugar, hormone level imbalance, and imbalances of other key body regulators, to name a few changes. 

I believe we will never see a “stress free” life this side of heaven. The challenge therefore is not to look for “stress free’’ opportunities, but to better yet, strive for the Peace that only come from the He who is PEACE. Although a challenge, it is possible to live and prosper during the stressful times of life. It is truly all about our perspective. In closing, think of the stressors that you face every day as opportunities and not obstacles. I like to use this adage at times: Remember nothing in this life ever comes to stay, but if you give it a while, it will always come to pass. 

At Matrix Wellness, we approach each of our patients by addressing the emotional, spiritual, physical, and mental person. In doing so, we can provide comprehensive wellness and disease prevention strategies that will work for all ages. 

David Hughes 

NP and Co-Owner of Matrix Wellness

Anniversary Special

Melatonin May Help With Weight Management

There is growing evidence of the important role that Melatonin plays in the management of obesity. Melatonin is a natural hormone that our body produces to promote sleep. A small pea-sized gland in the brain triggers its release when the suns starts going down. Age can play a crucial role in the level of Melatonin that we naturally produce. As we age, our Melatonin levels naturally drop. Other problems arise when we over-stimulate our brain with artificial light…. much like I’m doing now by writing this article close to my bedtime. 

All joking aside, the artificial light from our computers, T.V.’s, iPods, iPads, or any other “high tech digital poison” can interfere with the release of Melatonin. If Melatonin isn’t properly released at the right time or in the right amount, you probably won’t sleep well… and you may have more difficulty losing weight. 

Now, scientists have linked lack of sleep to obesity, and this form of obesity has partially been linked to low levels of Melatonin. Although all of the reasons aren’t entirely understood, there seems to be a growing body of evidence that supports adding a Melatonin supplement to aid in the treatment of obesity. 

In my mind, it’s certainly a “no-harm no-foul” treatment. It’s all-natural and seems to help in some cases. The additional benefits of achieving healthy Melatonin levels include improved immune function, potent anti-oxidant effects, & healthy balance of hormones such as Leptin, Human Growth Hormone, Insulin, Estrogen, Progesterone, and Testosterone. 

The ideal form of Melatonin is pharmaceutical grade and is “micronized” as well as “sustained release”. Generally speaking, low doses are all that’s needed to achieve the benefits mentioned above. These doses can be as low as 1mg to 3mg in most cases. 

Good Luck and Happy Sleeping, 

Brian Brown, APRN-BCCEO / Co-Owner

Harmful Bacteria Linked To Obesity

Here’s an excerpt from a recent article that I read:

So how might bacteria in the gut affect your weight? Research suggests that organisms in our intestines have a significant impact on how fats in our food are metabolized, absorbed and stored. The first data to suggest a connection between the health of the gut and the risk of obesity was published in 2004, and since then more than 100 articles have been published trying to elucidate the mechanism behind this. 

An imbalance of harmful bacteria in the gut can secrete substances known as endotoxins that can incite inflammation and contribute to changes in hormones that subsequently lead to weight gain. In a recent study in China, scientists identified an obesity-linked bacteria known as Enterobacter from a morbidly obese adult male; when that bacterium was eliminated from his gut, he lost nearly 30 percent of his body weight. The researchers then fed this same Enterobacter to a group of mice; they developed obesity and insulin resistance from this exposure. (K. Judge & M. Barish-Wreden; The Sacramento Bee - Mclatchy-Tribune News Service; Sacramento, Calif.; 2012)

Symptoms of enterobacter infections are serious and most always lead to hospitalization and sometimes fatality. Although it’s unlikely that you will ever have these serious bacteria in your gut, it’s important to note how fragile our gut is. We have to take care of our gut in order to maintain healthy nutrition balance.

Knowing the things that can lead to a build-up of harmful bacteria can help us avoid pitfalls later on. Here are some of the things that can affect that build-up:

Foods we eat

Use of antibiotics

Chronic ingestion of acid-reducing medications 

Stress

It may be hard to believe, but the bacteria in your gut can change in as little as a day. So how do we keep our gut healthy?

Avoid processed grains 

Avoid sugars

Switch to whole, unprocessed grains 

Incorporate more fermented foods like yogurt

Choose Your Sugar Wisely

When it comes to healthy living, most people are aware that sugar and starches need to be limited. But, most people don’t know why. When you eat foods that are starchy or contain sugar, your body interprets them all as pure sugar. Your body doesn’t know the difference between a tablespoon of sugar, a piece of bread, or mashed potatoes.

While sugar is necessary for survival, the best source of sugar comes from fruits and vegetables. I tell patients all the time to think of themselves as scavengers. Ask yourself, what am I most likely to find if I’m stranded in a tropical wilderness? Odds dictate that you are more likely to find cruciferous vegetables, nuts, and berries while scavenging. For now, we will stick to fruit.

In nature, berries are most plentiful and tree fruit is seasonal; thus, tree fruit naturally has limited availability. Because of modern-day-mass-production of these delectable foods, we no longer have to scavenge. We simply go to the local market and purchase whatever our heart desires. This can be both good & bad - good in the sense that we have access to healthier options, but bad in the sense that unlimited access to seasonal fruits, such as those that come from trees, can lead us to unhealthy imbalances.

Remember this little clue. Any fruit that ends in “berry” is better for you: strawberry, blueberry, blackberry, & raspberry. These have the lowest sugar content of all fruits, are filling, high in fiber, low in sugar, and high in antioxidants. If you have a choice, choose berries over tree fruit. If you must eat tree fruit, stick to apples. Enjoy these healthier options and enjoy a healthier life.

Your Secret Weapon To Healthy Living

Adequate protein is your secret weapon to healthy living. Healthy living starts with healthy eating, and protein is king. I know this sounds radical, but it’s true. Obviously, you want to eat a very balanced diet. This should include the healthiest forms of protein: lean meat, whey, or soy to name a few. However, what most people are not aware of is the importance of timing.

Morning time is the healthiest time of day that you should eat the bulk of your protein. There are hormonal reasons why you should start your day with protein. The amounts of morning protein vary based on age, dietary needs, individual health goals, and the presence of any illnesses such as diabetes or kidney disease. You should consult a health provider to discuss the proper amount that’s right for you.

Start your day with a healthy dose of lean protein such as egg whites, a whey protein shake, or a soy protein shake, and you will find your energy level improve & your cravings decrease. Make sure you drink plenty of water and you will be well on your way to a healthier life.