Natural Living Holiday Survival Guide Eoc
Natural Living Holiday Survival Guide Eoc
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system, or transmitted by any means – electronic, mechanical, photographic (photocopy-
ing), recording, or otherwise – without prior permission in writing from the author.
The products and statements in this book have not been evaluated by the United States
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or
prevent disease. All information provided in this book is for informational purposes only,
and is not intended as a substitute for advice from your physician or other health care
professional. You should not use the information in this book for diagnosis or treatment of
any health problem.
Sometimes people get offended by the words that I use, or the spiritual references
that I make. Please don’t fall into this trap.
I do not judge people that don’t share my faith and I am committed to helping
everyone (regardless of who they are or what they believe) benefit from my
experiences. In fact, I whole-heartedly believe this is my mission in life and why God
put me on this planet.
My dear friend and Integrative Oncologist, Dr. Tony Jimenez often says that “cancer
is an emotional disorder.” The same can be said of all chronic, long-standing
disease like gut disorders, autoimmunity, arthritis, fatigue and insomnia.
It is with this in mind that I present to you the information in the Introduction and
scattered throughout this book where you will discover eternal truths that will pro-
vide you with hope, inspiration and may even shed some light on things if you are
willing to take a dive into the spiritual side of healing with me.
4
Table of Contents
Click on Title to go to Chapter
Introduction 7
5
Cookie Crumb Pie Crust 35
Crustless Gluten-Free Cranberry Pie 36
Italian Honey Balls (Struffoli) 37
Lemon Tea Bread 39
Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream 40
6
Introduction
Happy Holidays, Friend!
As we are well aware, the happiest time of the year can also be the most hectic and
stressful season of the year. Especially if you want to stay healthy!
This Holiday Survival Guide is simply a collection of the recipes that we’ve developed
over the years to help us do just that!
Plus, we’ve included some DIY gift ideas so you can truly give the gift of health this year
to your loved ones.
Finally, we wrap up with some Holiday inspiration because who couldn’t use a mental,
emotional and spiritual boost in their lives nowadays, amen?
We hope you find this guide helpful and, as always, we hope & pray that you and your
family enjoy the abundant life!
7
SECTION 1
Our Favorite Holiday Recipes
But don’t take our word for it - the testimonials pouring in our online
Natural Living Family members say it all:
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usually do. Amazing.” ~ Penny L.
⚫ “Hi all. I just wanted to say that I ordered the Harmoni Pendant and
I love it. I have felt such a tremendous calm. I was very skeptical but
truly this is amazing.”~ Susan M.
c Go HERE to get a pendant & protect your family from EMF stress!
8
Food and communal dining play a major role in celebrating holidays. It’s
wonderful to “break bread” with those near and dear, but that celebratory
environment can also create challenges if you are in the process of changing
your relationship with food. How do you stay in control when temptation
beckons?
⚫ Set yourself up for success. Most of the time, it’s eating after you’re already
full that causes problems. If you know that Aunt Harriet’s chocolate chip
cookies—or whatever is your stumbling block—will be there, bring your
own healthier version. Have just one as a treat and then hand them
around to others. Be sure to leave your cookies behind, although chances
are they will have been devoured!
⚫ Balance eating with activity. If you’re consuming more sweet or starchy
foods, also commit to spending more time at the gym or doing whatever
you can to burn off some of that extra fuel. Join in a family game of touch
football, or take some long brisk walks with your sister-in-law.
⚫ Fast before a feast. Most people aren’t tempted to overeat protein, but I
do regularly hear “Bread is my downfall.” Or pasta, or cookies, or sweets,
which, of course, are all present at holiday gatherings. We recommend a
ten- to fourteen-day “vacation” from high-carb foods or whatever trigger
food is the culprit before the holidays, plus a few days of transition. Doing
so will provide clarity on the effect such foods have on you, which can
strengthen your resolve and help break your “addiction.”
⚫ Follow a feast with a fast. People often decide to fast after a holiday, which
is fine, but don’t use it as an excuse to gorge over the holiday. You always
want to transition into a fast of any sort, which argues for moderation
before you begin.
⚫ Fill up on water. If you struggle with overeating or know the food isn’t
going to be that healthy, drink a big glass of water spiked with lemon
essential oil before you head out for a holiday meal. Sip some more before
you sit down to curb your appetite. On the other hand, as long as the food
is healthy, eat until you feel comfortably full but not stuffed.
9
How to Handle Holiday Food
Celebrating holidays is wonderful, but the types of food often associated with
these events, to say nothing of the sheer quantity offered, can be challenging
when you are following any weight-loss program or simply trying to maintain
your weight and health goals. Here’s how we navigate those tricky shoals.
⚫ BYOF. We always bring our own food to Holiday functions. Not the entire
meal, but things that we know we’ll want or need. Usually, this includes
desserts and appetizers and sides that will fill our plates (and bellies) while
being dishes that add to the host’s meal plan.
⚫ Never upstage your host. Ask well in advance what’s on the menu and what
you can bring. So if you know that it’s a Butterball turkey pumped full of
antibiotics and raised on GMO corn, offer to bring a dish such as gluten-
free, dairy-free macaroni and cheese that can be regarded as a side dish.
That way, you’re not casting any aspersions on her turkey.
⚫ Don’t overlap. If someone else is making mashed potatoes, offer to bring
an equivalent dish, such as our Butternut Squash Soufflé (recipe below).
⚫ Offer options. For example, if we’re hosting, Mama Z will make her
grandma’s traditional macaroni and cheese, but she’ll also do gluten- and
dairy-free versions. Or, we might do a version of lasagna with grass-fed
ground beef and another with spinach.
⚫ Bread and dessert are always welcome. Plus, if you make it or select it, you
won’t regret it the next day. People are usually amazed at how great a loaf
of fresh-baked gluten-free bread tastes!
⚫ Ditto for dips. You can never go wrong with bringing a veggie tray and a
couple of healthy dips like hummus and pumpkin dip (recipes below).
This is something that has taken nearly 20 years to perfect and trust us when we
say that there is a lot of trial and error involved.
And that’s why we put together this Holiday Survival Guide, to help fast-track you
on your way to THRIVING, not just surviving the holiday season this year!
10
The recipes throughout this book follow the Essential Oils Diet, and each will be
marked “Fast Track” or “Lifestyle” approved.”
The 30-day Essential Fast Track. This is when you’ll focus on using essential oils,
changing key lifestyle habits, and eating clean, whole foods to reset your metabo-
lism, soothe inflammation and banish pounds quickly.
The Essential Lifestyle, a gentle, practical maintenance program you can follow
for life. Featuring delicious, easy recipes, meal plans, and strategies to keep you
on track, you’ll learn how to harness essential oils and bioactive-rich foods to
help your body reach the homeostasis necessary to help you achieve and main-
tain a healthy weight and abundant health.
11
BEVERAGES
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Ingredients
M 2 cups organic low-acid Lifeboost Coffee, freshly brewed, freshly
brewed
M 1 cup unsweetened organic vanilla-flavored almond or coconut milk
or unsweetened almond or coconut “creamer” (see note)
M 4-6 dropperfuls full of vanilla- or hazelnut-flavored liquid stevia
M 2 drops peppermint essential oil
M ½ tsp. ground Ceylon cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice mix
(see Note, below), plus more to sprinkle
Instructions
g Pour the coffee and almond milk into a 32-oz. glass jar.
g Add the stevia, essential oils, and cinnamon and top it off with the hot
water.
g Sprinkle more cinnamon on top, if desired.
g Serve immediately.
Notes:
Nutpods and Califa Farms Better Half are both dairy-free, half and half
“creamers.” Be sure to use an unsweetened variety.
12
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Ingredients
M 32 oz. hot water
M 1 - 13.5 oz. can organic coconut creme
M 3 Tbls. organic butter
M 2 Tbls. unrefined coconut oil
M 2 Tbls. raw cacao powder
M ¼ tsp. organic pure vanilla extract
M ¼ tsp. Himalayan salt
M 4-5 droppers full vanilla liquid stevia or natural sweetener to taste
Instructions
g Boil water and let it simmer for a moment.
g Mix all of the ingredients in blender until smooth.
g Serve immediately.
g Can be stored in refrigerator, but will need to be warmed up be-
cause the coconut oil will harden.
g Enjoy!
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Ingredients
M 2 tsps. Ujido matcha green tea
M 1 tsp. maca powder (we like this maca / cacao blend)
M 1 tsp. cacao powder
M 1 dropper full of liquid stevia (vanilla flavored)
M 1 Tbl. unrefined coconut oil
M ½ cup coconut milk
M 16 oz. hot water
M 1 drop peppermint essential oil (optional)
M 1 drop cinnamon essential oil (optional)
Instructions
g Put ingredients in blender (Vitamix) and voila!
g Serve immediately and can be refrigerated for a cool drink during
summer months.
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MULLED CIDER
Ingredients
M 1 gallon of cider (fresh pressed is the best)
M ½ cup Frontier Natural Products Organic Cider Mate Mulling Spice
M 4 3-inch cinnamon sticks
Instructions
g Pour the juice into a large pot.
g Place the Organic Cider Mate Mulling Spice and cinnamon sticks into a tea
bag.
g Add the teabag to the pot.
MULLED CIDER
Ingredients
M 1 gallon of cider (fresh pressed is the best)
M ½ cup Frontier Natural Products Organic Cider Mate Mulling Spice
M 4 3-inch cinnamon sticks
Instructions
g Pour the juice into a large pot.
g Place the Organic Cider Mate Mulling Spice and cinnamon sticks into a tea
bag.
g Add the teabag to the pot.
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Ingredients
M 1 - 5.4 oz. organic coconut cream warmed
M ½ cup organic low-acid Lifeboost Coffee (freshly brewed)
M ¼ cup pure pumpkin puree
M 2 Tbls. organic coconut oil (get a free jar on me!)
M 2 Tbls. organic, grassfed butter
M 2 eye droppers full of vanilla stevia
M 1 drop cinnamon leaf essential oil
M 1 drop clove bud essential oil
M 1 drop ginger essential oil
M Organic pumpkin pie spice, sprinkled (for garnish)
Instructions
g Pour Lifeboost Coffee all ingredients in the VitaMix, blend well.
g Pour latte in mug and sprinkle organic pumpkin pie spice on top.
g Enjoy!
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Ingredients
M 1 quart 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened & not from
concentrate)
M 2 quarts 100% orange juice (not from concentrate)
M 6 Tbls. Frontier Natural Products Cider Mate, Original Spice
Instructions
g Put the juice in a large pot.
g Put the Cider Mate, Original Spice into a tea bag and in the pot.
g Turn the burner onto high until boiling.
g Then simmer for 30 minutes
Notes:
You can make this ahead of time and freeze it. Then simply thaw, warm,
and serve.
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APPETIZERS / SIDES
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Instructions
g Combine squash, salt, syrup, and cornstarch.
g Beat until fluffy.
g Add egg yolks, coconut milk, and butter.
g Mix thoroughly.
g Beat egg whites until stiff.
g Fold into squash mixture.
g Pour onto buttered 1 ½ qts. casserole dish.
g Sprinkle with slivered almonds.
g Bake at 350 degrees for 1 hour.
g Serve immediately.
Pour into containers, top evenly with nut slices and bake immediately.
Serve!
Freezer version! When removing from the oven, let it cool and freeze. To
reheat for your event, cover with parchment before reheating. Let it reheat
slowly with your oven on warmer, or set oven at 325-350 for 30-45 minutes
to thoroughly heat.
18
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COCKTAIL MEATBALLS
Ingredients
M 1 pound 100% grass fed ground beef
M ⅓ cup onion, minced or 2 tablespoons dried
M 1 egg
M 1 teaspoon pink Himalayan salt
M 1 teaspoon Bragg Liquid Aminos
M ½ cup gluten-free bread crumbs or rice flour
M ¼ cup almond or coconut milk
M ⅛ teaspoon white pepper
M 1 tablespoon parsley, snipped OR 1 tsp. dried
M 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, crushed OR 1 tsp. dried
M 1 (12-ounce) bottle chili sauce
M 1 (10-ounce) jar grape all fruit (about 1 cup)
Instructions
g Mix ingredients together (except chili sauce and grape jelly), and shape
into 1-inch balls.
g Place on cookie sheets and bake for 30-45 minutes at 375ºF.
g After they are cooked, they can be put in a glass container and frozen
until needed.
Sauce:
g Heat chili sauce and jelly in a skillet, stirring constantly, until jelly is
melted.
g Add meatballs and stir until thoroughly coated.
g Simmer uncovered 30 minutes.
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Ingredients
M 8 potatoes, pared and thinly sliced (8 cups) or can easily be put
through a thin sliced option on the food processor (use a com-
bination of organic sweet & red potatoes)
M 3 Tbls. chopped onion or 2 Tbls. dried
White Sauce
M 4 Tbls. organic butter or coconut oil
M 3 Tbls. all-purpose gluten-free flour
M 2 tsps. pink Himalayan salt
M 4 cups coconut milk
Instructions
g Combine the sweet and red potatoes so each type are evenly distributed.
g Place half the potatoes in a 2-quart casserole dish.
g Cover with half the onion and half the sauce.
g Repeat layers.
g Bake uncovered at 325°F for 2 hours.
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HERBED BUTTER
Ingredients
M 1 4-oz. stick of organic butter
M 1 tsp. of Herbes de Provence, dried
Instructions
g Soften the stick of butter and mix in dried herbs.
g Put mixture in refrigerator.
g Rub onto whole turkey or chicken before it goes into the oven.
HERBED BUTTER
Ingredients
M 1 4-oz. stick of organic butter
M 1 tsp. of Herbes de Provence, dried
Instructions
g Soften the stick of butter and mix in dried herbs.
g Put mixture in refrigerator.
g Rub onto whole turkey or chicken before it goes into the oven.
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Instructions
g Place the garlic, sea salt, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, honey,
purified water, 2 tablespoons of the olive oils, and the essential oil
(lemon or lime) in the bowl of a food processor or blender.
g Process until smooth.
g Spoon into a serving dish. Top with the herbes de Provence and
drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons olive oil.
g Serve as a dip with fresh vegetables and grain-free or almond-flour
chips.
g Alternatively, place the dip in a 16-ounce airtight container and
refrigerate for up to one week, or freeze for a month.
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Instructions
g Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
g Cut potatoes into evenly sized wedges or cubes about 1”.
g Toss potatoes, olive oil, herbs, and salt in a bowl.
g Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
g Bake for 30-35 minutes until browned and tender.
Instructions
g Preheat oven to 425 degrees.
g Cut potatoes into evenly sized wedges or cubes about 1”.
g Toss potatoes, olive oil, herbs, and salt in a bowl.
g Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
g Bake for 30-35 minutes until browned and tender.
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Ingredients
M 15 oz. can organic pumpkin puree
M 8 oz. package of Daiya plain cream cheese style spread
M 3 drops cinnamon essential oil
M 1 drop clove essential oil
M 1 drop ginger essential oil
M 2 cups natural confectioners’ sugar (take 2 cup honey
granules or coconut crystals and blend in food processor with 3-4
tsps. arrowroot or non GMO organic cornstarch)
Instructions
g Put all ingredients in the food processor or blender for 1-2 minutes and
refrigerate 2 hours or overnight and then serve with apples, gluten-free
ginger snaps.
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ENTREES
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Instructions
g Mix butter, oregano, marjoram, and parsley together. Spread half of this
butter mixture on top of the cheese block (use the side with the largest
surface). Set aside the other half of the butter mixture which will be used
to top the dish before baking.
g Score the butter into 8 even markings. Place cheese and butter into the
refrigerator until butter becomes firm.
g Meanwhile, place the halved chicken breasts between two pieces of Sa-
ran Wrap™ and pound with a wooden mallet to flatten.
g Remove the cheese and butter from the refrigerator and cut through the
cheese where you marked the butter.
g Place one of these sticks on each pounded chicken breast. Roll the way
you would if making a jellyroll. Fasten with toothpicks.
g Coat chicken rolls with flour. Dip in beaten eggs, then in breadcrumbs. At
this time, you may wrap the chicken breasts in Saran Wrap™ and place
them in a freezer bag along with the butter. This may be kept frozen for
several months. The day you’re ready to prepare it, let it thaw out for 6
hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
g When thawed, place chicken breasts in a prepared flat baking dish and
bake uncovered at 350° for 20 minutes.
g Meanwhile, unwrap the saved butter and melt it in a small saucepan and
stir in the wine. When the timer rings, pour wine and butter mixture over
chicken and bake for another 15 minutes.
g Serve with brown rice and pour the liquid from the baking dish over the
rice.
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Ingredients
M 1 lb. organic ground beef, cooked in 1 Tbl. Italian seasoning or Herbes
de Provence
M 1 package of gluten-free lasagna noodles
M 2 qts. of my homemade spaghetti sauce
M 2 cups Daiya mozzarella shreds (1 bag)
M 2 eggs, beaten (or egg replacements)
M 15 oz. unsweetened coconut milk yogurt
M ½ cup Parmesan cheese (use more of the Daiya cheese shreds here
if you are dairy-free, or raw organic Parmesan cheese is best if you do
include dairy in your diet)
M Fresh herbs: basil, oregano, thyme & parsley
Instructions
g Brown the meat with the Italian seasoning (or Herbes de Provence).
Drain, return to pot, and stir in 2 quarts of spaghetti sauce.
g In a medium mixing bowl, combine the yogurt, Daiya mozzarella or par-
mesan, eggs, and 1 tablespoon of each fresh herb (or 1 tsp. if using dried
herbs). Mix well.
g Spread 1 cup of the spaghetti sauce over the bottom of your crockpot
dish. Layer a third of the uncooked lasagna noodles, yogurt mixture,
cooked meat, spaghetti sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat the layer-
ing two more times.
g Top with a layer of cheese, herbs, and then a final layer of cheese.
g Cook on high for 3 to 4 hours.
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Ingredients
M 2 Tbls. organic butter or coconut oil
M ¼ cup rice starch or gravy thickener
M ½ cup free-range chicken stock OR vegetable stock
M ½ cup leftover drippings/fat from turkey
M 2 Tbls. Bragg Liquid Aminos
M ¼ cup pineapple or apple natural fruit juice
M 1 tsp. Herbes de Provence
Instructions
g Melt butter in pan over low heat
g Whisk in rice starch or gravy thickener to make a roux.
Personally I love to use an immersion blender.
g Add in remaining ingredients starting with chicken stock.
g Raise heat to medium until liquid comes to a low boil.
g Simmer gravy, stirring frequently, until desired consistency.
g Serve with favorite meal - perfect for Thanksgiving Dinner!
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Ingredients
M 1 (8-12-oz.) package gluten-free lasagna *
M 2 eggs
M 15 oz. unsweetened coconut milk yogurt/ricotta cheese
M 64 oz. my homemade spaghetti sauce
M ½ cup dairy-free Daiya mozzarella style shreds or grated raw
Parmesan cheese
M 1 pound 100% grass fed ground beef OR 100% organic fresh or frozen
(thawed) spinach *
M 2 cups dairy-free Daiya mozzarella style shreds OR shredded
mozzarella cheese
M Fresh chopped or dried basil, oregano, parsley & thyme
Instructions
g Preheat oven to 350ºF.
g In bowl, combine ricotta cheese, parmesan cheese, eggs & 1 Tbl. of
each fresh herb or 1 tsp. when using dried herbs; mix well.
g In 9x13 dish, spread 1 cup spaghetti sauce. Layer ⅓ uncooked lasagna
noodles, yogurt/ricotta cheese, cooked meat/spinach, spaghetti sauce
& mozzarella. Repeat layering 2x.
g Top with fresh/dried herbs and the rest of the dairy-free Daiya mozza-
rella style shreds or parmesan cheese.
g Bake 1 hour covered & 10 minutes uncovered.
Notes:
* Use almond-flour pasta and spinach instead of meat for Fast Track.
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Ingredients
M 1 cup of pink Himalayan salt
M 1 cup honey
M 1 quart boiling filtered water
M 7 qts. of filtered water
M 1 large onion, diced
M 2 large carrots, diced
M 3 stalks celery, diced
M 1 flower of garlic, open all the cloves
M ½ bunch rosemary
M ¼ cup Herbes de Provence
M 6 bay leaves
M Ice
Instructions
g Put all ingredients, except the 7 quarts of filtered water in a large pot.
g Stir in all the ingredients until salt and honey are dissolved.
g Pour the heated mixture over the turkey then add the rest of the 7
quarts of filtered water in a large pot with ice to top.
g Continue to add ice as you check it a couple times daily.
g Be sure to brine your turkey 2 days before cooking and no later than
the morning, the day before Thanksgiving Dinner.
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Ingredients
M ¾ cup minced onion
M 1½ cups celery, chopped (stalks and leaves)
M 1 cup organic butter or coconut oil, or a combination of both
M 2 apples, chopped - one Granny Smith and one gala
M 9 cups soft gluten-free bread cubes cut from homeade or store
bought healthy gluten-free bread
M 2 tsps. pink Himalayan salt
M ½ tsp. ground white pepper
M 1 ½ tsps. Herbes de Provence or crushed sage leaves*
M 1 tsp. dried thyme leaves (omit if you use Herbes de Provence)
M Vegetable broth for consistency
Instructions
g Sautee the onion and celery in the butter or coconut oil until tender.
g In a large bowl, combine all remaining ingredients.
g Fold in the onion and celery.
g Spread the mixture into a large oiled casserole dish.
g Bake on 350°F in the oven for 30-45 minutes.
Notes: *Do not use sage or sage blends if you are or are entertaining any
breastfeeding mothers.
If you have other things in the oven for dinner and want everything to be
done at the same time then just adjust the length of time accordingly based
on the temp. The temperature this can cook at is flexible. So if dinner is cook-
ing at 325°F then cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour.
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DESSERTS
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ALLERGY-FRIENDLY CHEESECAKE
Ingredients
M 1 Cookie Crumb Style Pie Crust, completed and cooled
M 8 oz. package nondairy or almond cream cheese substitute, at
room temperature
M ⅓ cup coconut sugar or 5-6 eye droppers full liquid stevia
M 1 cup grapeseed oil vegan mayonnaise or unsweetened vanilla
coconut milk yogurt substitute
M 1 Tbl. pure vanilla extract
M ½ cup coconut whipped cream
M 1 Tbl. natural confectioners’ sugar (take 1 cup honey granules or co-
conut crystals and blend in food processor with 1-2 tsps. arrowroot
or non-GMO organic cornstarch)
Instructions
g In a food processor or large bowl beat cream cheese until smooth.
g Add sweetener, mayonnaise or yogurt, and vanilla and mix well.
g Then add coconut whipped cream and natural confectioners’ sugar.
g Mix until mixture is well incorporated but do not over mix.
g Spoon into Cookie Crumb Style Pie Crust.
g Refrigerate for 4 hours before serving.
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Instructions
g Place the inside bowl of an automatic ice cream maker into a freezer for
at least 12 hours. (I like the Cuisinart® Ice Cream/Yogurt Maker from Bed,
Bath & Beyond.)
g Place the can of coconut milk in a blender then add the rest of the So Deli-
cious coconut milk to reach the 3 cups mark.
g Then add the rest of the ingredients into the blender and blend.
g Put the inside bowl into the ice cream maker with the paddle inside.
g Turn the machine on and put everything from the blender into the ice
cream maker.
g Let it run for 30 minutes or when the ice cream reaches the best consis-
tency for you.
g Serve immediately with fruit, nuts or topping.
g Store the rest of the ice cream in the freezer.
Notes:
* For candy cane ice cream, add 2 drops of peppermint
essential oil.
* For chocolate ice cream, add ¼ cup cocoa powder.
* For strawberry ice cream, add ½ cup strawberries.
* For mocha ice cream, add 1 serving instant organic coffee.
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Ingredients
M 1 can full of fat coconut milk
M 1 Tbl. vanilla extract or ¼ tsp. of organic vanilla beans ground
M 1-3 tsps. maple syrup *
Instructions
g Place can of coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight.
g Turn can upside-down and open it.
g Drain off liquid and use later in a smoothie.
g Put all the coconut cream left in the can in a stand mixer (I use Kitch-
en Aid), add vanilla & maple syrup to taste.
g Mix together with regular or whipping blade. Place in refrigerator 3-4
hours and serve over dessert.
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Ingredients
M 1½ cups cookie crumbs (coconut sugar cookies – Simple Mills cinna-
mon or toasted pecan)
M ¼ cup organic/raw butter or coconut oil (plus ¼ tsp. pink Himalayan
salt or sea salt), melted
Instructions
g Preheat oven to 350 F.
g Use spray oil to prep your glass pie pan.
g Mix crumbs and butter (I prefer doing this in the food processor.)
g If desired, reserve 2-3 tablespoons crumb mixture for topping. If not,
keep in crust.
g Press remaining mixture firmly and evenly against bottom and side of
glass pie pan.
g Bake for 10 minutes.
g Cool and fill.
g Makes 1 – 9 inch pie crust.
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Instructions
g Preheat oven to 350ºF.
g Grease one 9 inch pie pan.
g Combine the flour, coconut sugar, and sea salt.
g Stir in the cranberries and the walnuts, and toss to coat.
g Stir in the butter, beaten eggs, and almond extract.
g If you are using frozen cranberries, the mixture will be very thick.
g Spread the batter into the prepared pan.
g Bake at 350ºF for 40 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted near the
center comes out clean.
Notes: Serve warm with Mama Z’s Coconut Milk Whipped Cream or Mama Z’s
Vanilla Coconut Milk Ice Cream.
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Instructions
Dough
g Get a 8 quart pot and heat about 3-4 inches of cooking oil on
medium-low heat. On our stove, we used the #3 heat setting
out of 10.
g While the oil is heating, sift flour and place in large glass bowl.
g Beat 3 eggs and mix with flour. You want the dough to be
sticky so you may need to add one more egg, depending
on the flour you use. Coconut and almond flours usually
require more liquid.
g Knead dough on floured board and let rest for 5-10 minutes.
g Take small pieces of dough and roll into thin tubes thinner
than a pencil. Like kids making snakes with play-doh.
g Chop the dough tubes into tiny pieces about ¼-½ inch long.
g Deep fry in oil until lightly golden brown and drain well in
metal strainer or paper towel while cooling off.
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Instructions
Syrup/Topping
g In the same 8 quart pot, mix together honey, coconut oil, liquid ste-
via, almonds and cinnamon/pumpkin pie spice on low heat until it
simmers.
g Turn off heat and let cool until it thickens a bit.
g Not waiting too long, pour in the fried dough pieces and mix togeth-
er so that the syrup is evenly distributed.
g Immediately, put your Italian honey balls into small serving bowls
and top with shredded chocolate or chocolate chips.
g Enjoy!
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Ingredients
M ½ cup organic butter or coconut oil, softened
M 1 cup coconut crystals or ½ cup agave or honey
M 2 large eggs
M 1 ¼ cup gluten-free all-purpose flour
M ¼ cup coconut flour
M 1 tsp. aluminum free baking powder
M ½ tsp. pink Himalayan salt
M ½ cup coconut or almond milk
M 2 Tbls. lemon rind, divided
M 6 drops of lemon essential oil
M 1 cup natural confectioners’ sugar (take 1 cup honey granules or
coconut crystals and blend in food processor with 1-2 tsps. arrow-
root or non GMO organic cornstarch)
M 2 Tbls. fresh lemon juice
M 1 Tbl. coconut crystals or ½ Tbl. agave or honey
Instructions
g Beat softened organic butter or coconut oil at medium speed with an
electric mixer until creamy.
g Gradually add 1 cup granulated sweetener or ½ cup liquid sweetener,
beating until light and fluffy.
g Add eggs, 1 at a time.
g Stir together gluten-free flour, baking powder, and sea salt; add to
organic butter mixture alternating with milk, beating at low speed just
until blended, beginning and ending with flour mixture.
g Stir in 1 tablespoon lemon rind and essential oil.
g Spoon batter into greased and floured 8x4 inch loaf pan.
g Bake at 350°F for 1 hour or until a wooden pick inserted in center of
bread comes out clean.
g Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before removing bread.
g Cool completely on a wire rack.
g Stir together powdered sugar and lemon juice until smooth; spoon
evenly over top of bread, letting excess drip down sides.
g Stir together remaining 1 tablespoon lemon rind and 1 tablespoon
sweetener; sprinkle on top of bread.
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Ingredients
M 1 can coconut cream
M 1 cup coconut milk
M 1 15-oz. can organic pumpkin puree
M 1 Tbl. chia seed
M ¼ cup walnuts
M 2 scoops powdered stevia (about ½ tsp.)
M 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice
M ¼ tsp. pink Himalayan salt
M 5-10 drops essential oil immunity blend
Instructions
g Mix ingredients in blender and put inside ice cream maker.
g Mix until very smooth and enjoy!
Notes
*Immune Boost Blend: Equal parts Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus, Rosemary,
Orange and Lemon Essential Oils
40
SECTION 2
Giving the Gift of Health &
DIY Stocking Stuffers
But don’t take our word for it - the testimonials pouring in our online
Natural Living Family members say it all:
⚫ “I bought two Harmoni Pendants small for me & large for Chuck. I
normally have an irregular heart beat. None since I activated it and
put it on. And my knees didn’t hurt when I got out of car like they
usually do. Amazing.” ~ Penny L.
⚫ “Hi all. I just wanted to say that I ordered the Harmoni Pendant and
I love it. I have felt such a tremendous calm. I was very skeptical but
truly this is amazing.”~ Susan M.
c Go HERE to get a pendant & protect your family from EMF stress!
41
If you really want to help your loved ones this Holiday season and empower
them to live their best lives now, you’ll give them the gift of health. Meaning, don’t
buy (or make) your loved ones stuff that isn’t good for them.
⚫ Will my gift help [name] on their journey to living a more fulfilling, natural
living, disease-free life?
⚫ Or, will my gift promote bad health habits and food guilt?
We started to ask this question almost 20 years ago and it reshaped the way we
approached Holiday gift giving forever.
Of course, buying your niece or nephew some fun toy or game is totally
acceptable, but don’t fill up their gift bag with peppermint sticks or sugar-laden
candy! Instead, skip food altogether. Or, if you must give them something to
eat, stick to homemade healthy goodies like gluten-free (naturally-sweetened)
cookies. What child doesn’t like cookies!?!
DIY
In this section, we share some popular and easy-to-make DIY gift ideas and
stocking stuffers. This is by no means an exhaustive list, but it will get you
started. We encourage you to search online for more ideas, and you’ll find a
bunch on our blog: NaturalLivingFamily.com.
42
Don’t Have Time to DIY?
Truth be told, we don’t DIY everything. With 5 kids, we just don’t have the time.
So, when we need to pick up a quick healthy gift during the Holiday season, we
go to our trusted list of natural living product suppliers.
Each year we scour the Internet to find the best deals on the healthiest (and
most affordable) natural living products. It’s become a yearly favorite with our
online community who regularly ask us for our recommendation on everything
from the air purifier to non-toxic wrinkle cream! Then, we feature these specials
next to our annual Black Friday / Holiday sale and it’s become our famous
Natural Living Shopping Guide!
43
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M ¼ ounce emulsifying wax
M ½ ounce carrier oil for skincare such as fractionated
coconut oil, jojoba oil, evening primrose oil, or argan oil
M 3 drops vitamin E oil OR pure vitamin E
M 2 ounces aloe vera juice (not gel!)
M ¾ ounce witch hazel (unscented and alcohol-free)
M 2 drops vegetable glycerin
M 6 drops cedarwood essential oil
M 4 drops peppermint essential oil
M 2 drops sandalwood essential oil
Supplies:
M Double boiler OR pint-sized jar
M Small glass cup for mixing
M Glass salve jar or pump bottle for storage
Instructions
g Fill a small saucepan with 1-2 inches of water and place over low heat.
Put the emulsifying wax, carrier oil, and vitamin E into a double boiler or
small jar and place it in the pan.
g While the wax is melting, measure the aloe vera juice, witch hazel, and
glycerin into a small glass cup or jar, warming them a little if needed, and
stir to combine.
g Once oils are melted, add the liquids and heat everything just enough to
ensure everything is melted and mixed well.
g Remove from the heat and whisk continually as the mixture cools. You’ll
need to keep whisking until the lotion is thick, creamy, and a little frothy.
g Whisk in the essential oils last. While still warm, quickly pour it into your
final jar for dispensing and clean your utensils in hot water before the
residue cools on them and makes them hard to clean.
g Store this in a little glass jar, or a pump bottle for easy dispensing.
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Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 4 tablespoons witch hazel (unscented and alcohol-free)
M 4 tablespoons aloe vera gel
M 2 tablespoons organic grain alcohol
M 6 drops Hawaiian sandalwood or cedarwood essential oil
M 3 drops Frankincense Essential Oil
Supplies:
M 2-ounce glass spray bottle
Instructions
g Combine all ingredients and keep in a dark glass spray bottle.
g To use, spray onto hands and pat face after shaving.
Notes:
This recipe should last a couple weeks without using harmful preservatives.
Store in the refrigerator to extend shelf-life.
Using both of these together can help soothe dry skin and serve as a natu-
ral cologne to avoid artificial fragrances.
45
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M ½ oz. sweet almond oil M 2 drops of bergamot
M ½ oz. jojoba oil M 2 drops of lemon essential oil
M 3 drops of clove essential oil M 1 glass bottle with dropper or PET
M 3 drops of white fir essential oil plastic pump bottle
Instructions
g Pour sweet almond oil and jojoba oil into bottle.
g Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
Ingredients
M ½ oz. sweet almond oil M 2 drops of bergamot
M ½ oz. jojoba oil M 2 drops of lemon essential oil
M 3 drops of clove essential oil M 1 glass bottle with dropper or
M 3 drops of white fir essential oil PET plastic pump bottle
Instructions
g Pour sweet almond oil and jojoba oil into bottle.
g Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
46
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M ½ oz. of argan oil M 3 drops of orange essential oil
M ½ oz. of sweet almond oil M 1 drop tea tree essential oil
M 3 drops of cinnamon bark M 1 glass bottle with dropper or
essential oil PET plastic pump bottle
Instructions
g Pour argan oil and sweet almond oil in the bottle.
g Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
Ingredients
M ½ oz. of argan oil M 3 drops of orange essential oil
M ½ oz. of sweet almond oil M 1 drop tea tree essential oil
M 3 drops of cinnamon bark M 1 glass bottle with dropper or
essential oil PET plastic pump bottle
Instructions
g Pour argan oil and sweet almond oil in the bottle.
g Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
47
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
Ingredients
M ½ oz. of coconut oil M 4 drops of peppermint
M ½ oz. of jojoba oil essential oil
M 1 glass bottle with dropper or PET
plastic pump bottle
Instructions
g Pour coconut oil and jojoba oil in the bottle.
g Add your essential oils and shake to blend.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coconut, Jojoba,
Sweet Almond.
48
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 5ml. glass roller bottle
M 2 drops of clary sage essential oil (see note below)
M 2 drops of ylang ylang essential oil
M carrier oil*
Instructions
g Add essential oils to your glass roller bottle.
g Fill the remaining space of your roller bottle with the carrier oil of
your choice.
g Shake well.
g Roll on your wrist and behind the ears each morning.
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s
right for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado,
Fractionated Coconut, Grapeseed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
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Cut-Out Recipe Card
Instructions
g Add your essential oils to a glass roller bottle.
g Fill the remaining space in your roller bottle with the carrier oil of your choice.
g Shake well.
g Apply to wrists and back of neck each morning.
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right for you.
You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado, Fractionated Coconut, Grape-
seed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
Instructions
g Add your essential oils to a glass roller bottle.
g Fill the remaining space in your roller bottle with the carrier oil of your choice.
g Shake well.
g Apply to wrists and back of neck each morning.
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right for you.
You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado, Fractionated Coconut, Grape-
seed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
50
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 5 ml. Glass Roller Bottle
M Carrier Oil*
M 4 drops of essential oils**
Instructions
g Add your blend of essential oils to your roller bottle.
g Fill the remaining space in the glass roller bottle with the carrier oil of
your choice.
g Shake well.
g Apply to wrists and back of neck each morning
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado, Fraction-
ated Coconut, Grapeseed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
51
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 10 drops of essential oils M 190 proof grain alcohol (or the
M 1 oz. PET plastic flip top bottle highest proof alcohol you can get)*
Instructions
g Pick and choose the essential oils to meet your desired result.
g Drop essential oils into bottle.
g Then add alcohol to fill the bottle.
g Mix thoroughly until the essential oil is fully mixed.
g Enjoy! It’s THAT easy!
g Be sure to give your hands a thorough soak, rub vigorously, and keep wet for
as long as possible until your hands air dry.
* At least 60% alcohol is necessary to sanitize the hands, but this concentration is
not adequate for solubilizing essential oils.
Ingredients
M 10 drops of essential oils M 190 proof grain alcohol (or the
M 1 oz. PET plastic flip top bottle highest proof alcohol you can get)*
Instructions
g Pick and choose the essential oils to meet your desired result.
g Drop essential oils into bottle.
g Then add alcohol to fill the bottle.
g Mix thoroughly until the essential oil is fully mixed.
g Enjoy! It’s THAT easy!
g Be sure to give your hands a thorough soak, rub vigorously, and keep wet for
as long as possible until your hands air dry.
* At least 60% alcohol is necessary to sanitize the hands, but this concentration is
not adequate for solubilizing essential oils.
52
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Instructions
g Add essential oils to the bottle. Add the 190 proof alcohol and mix well.
g Fill the rest of the way with the distilled water and shake gently to mix.
g Spritz on yourself, or in a room that needs freshening.
g Enjoy!
Instructions
g Add essential oils to the bottle. Add the 190 proof alcohol and mix well.
g Fill the rest of the way with the distilled water and shake gently to mix.
g Spritz on yourself, or in a room that needs freshening.
g Enjoy!
53
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M ¼ cup unrefined shea butter
M ⅛ cup Mama Z’s Oil Base or favorite carrier oil*
M 1 Tbl. beeswax**
M 15 drops essential oils***
Instructions
g Put a glass jar or measuring cup in a pan of ½-1 inch of simmering
water. Melt the shea butter, beeswax, and sweet almond or jojoba
oil together in the glass container, stirring with a wooden utensil as
the ingredients melt. (A popcicle stick works great for this because
you can throw it away when you’re done!)
g When all your ingredients are melted, remove the jar from the pan
and allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 minutes.
g Next, add your blend of essential oils and stir well. Before the mix-
ture cools, pour it into a glass salve container or shallow jar. It will
take several hours to harden into a cream, but it will be worth the
wait!
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s
right for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado,
Fractionated Coconut, Grapeseed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
** If you are allergic to beeswax, try Candelilla Wax or Bayberry Wax
*** You can use a blend of your favorites, depending on the scent you
like! Some oils like myrrh, lavender, frankincense, and cedarwood are
great for your skin and circulation. Try pairing these with other favor-
ites!
54
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 1 Tbl. Beeswax*
M 3 Tbls. Mama Z’s Oil Base or your favorite carrier oil**
M 2 ½ tsps. Shea Butter
M 5 drops Vitamin E Oil
M 2 drops of Rosemary Essential Oil
M 3 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil
M 15-16 lip balm tubes or tins
Instructions
g Set a glass measuring cup or a jar into a sauce pan with an inch of
water in it to create a double boiler. Melt the wax, coconut oil and
shea butter in the jar over medium heat.
g Remove from heat and quickly stir in the Vitamin E and essential oils.
g Carefully pour into tubes or small tins.
g Let cool.
* No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s right
for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Avocado, Fraction-
ated Coconut, Grapeseed, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
Mama Z Pro-Tip – In my experience, the small tins are the easiest and
least messy way to store and use homemade lip balms.
55
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Instructions
g Mix essential oils into the base of your choice and store finished product in a
glass jar.
Note: This is a 4.8% dilution rate so you wouldn’t want to use this for a full-
body application or massage oil, rather to spot treat specific muscles that were
strained and sore. If you find this is too strong for your skin or you prefer a lower
dilution simply add an additional ounce of carrier oil.
Instructions
g Mix essential oils into the base of your choice and store finished product in a
glass jar.
Note: This is a 4.8% dilution rate so you wouldn’t want to use this for a full-
body application or massage oil, rather to spot treat specific muscles that were
strained and sore. If you find this is too strong for your skin or you prefer a lower
dilution simply add an additional ounce of carrier oil.
56
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Instructions
g In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Knead in water till well mixed
and not sticky.
g Roll out to ¼” and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.
g Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and poke holes with a straw.
g Bake at 250 degrees for 2-3 hours. Or let dry on a sheet for a couple of days.
g You can paint with acrylic paints if you like, but we like to hang them plain,
scented with a few drops of peppermint essential oil!
Instructions
g In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Knead in water till well mixed
and not sticky.
g Roll out to ¼” and cut with your favorite cookie cutters.
g Place on an ungreased cookie sheet and poke holes with a straw.
g Bake at 250 degrees for 2-3 hours. Or let dry on a sheet for a couple of days.
g You can paint with acrylic paints if you like, but we like to hang them plain,
scented with a few drops of peppermint essential oil!
57
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 6 Tablespoons organic fair trade sugar, maple sugar, or our
Sugar Cookie Blend
M 4 teaspoons Mama Z’s oil base or your favorite carrier oil*
M ¼ cup raw local honey
M 40 drops grapefruit essential oil**
Instructions
g Mix all ingredients, store in a glass container, and enjoy as desired
while bathing. I prefer a wide-mouth, shallow glass jar so you can stir
before using each time.
g Stir to mix before each use.
g To use, scrub all over your skin while standing in the shower before
the water is running. Enhance the exfoliation factor by using a pair of
the exfoliation gloves.
g Once you’ve rubbed the sugar mixture over all your exposed skin,
rinse off in the shower until the sugar has dissolved and rinsed off
your skin.
Notes: No matter what allergies you may have, there’s a carrier oil that’s
right for you. You can use any, or a combination of these: Argan, Coco-
nut, Jojoba, Sweet Almond.
Alternative essential oil blends would allow you to customize the sugar
scrub to whatever fragrance or therapeutic benefit you prefer. Consider
trying:
⚫ Awesome Body – equal parts orange, grapefruit, lime, lemon, and
peppermint
⚫ Joyful – Vanilla absolute, oleoresin or CO2 and orange (sweet or wild)
⚫ Sweet Sleep – equal parts Roman chamomile, lavender, and vetiver
58
Cut-Out Recipe Card
Ingredients
M 1 cup unrefined shea butter
M 1 cup Mama Z’s oil base
M 50 drops essential oils*
M Supplies:
M Glass jar
M Medium-sized saucepan
M Medium-sized bowl
M Immersion blender or handheld mixer
M Mason jar for storage
Instructions
g Set a glass measuring cup or a jar in a saucepan filled with an inch of
water.
g Place the shea butter in the measuring cup or jar and melt over medium
heat, stirring occasionally.
g As soon as it’s melted, remove the measuring cup or jar from the pan
and let it cool for about five minutes.
g Once it’s cool enough to handle, pour the shea butter into a medium
glass bowl.
g Add Mama Z’s Oil Base and the essential oils.
g Chill in the refrigerator until partly solidified (about 15 minutes).
g Whip to a butter-like consistency using an immersion blender or hand-
held mixer.
g Store in a mason jar.
Notes: * Try these essential oil blends for beauty and anti-aging:
59
SECTION 3
Holiday Inspiration
But don’t take our word for it - the testimonials pouring in our online
Natural Living Family members say it all:
⚫ “I bought two Harmoni Pendants small for me & large for Chuck. I
normally have an irregular heart beat. None since I activated it and
put it on. And my knees didn’t hurt when I got out of car like they
usually do. Amazing.” ~ Penny L.
⚫ “Hi all. I just wanted to say that I ordered the Harmoni Pendant and
I love it. I have felt such a tremendous calm. I was very skeptical but
truly this is amazing.”~ Susan M.
c Go HERE to get a pendant & protect your family from EMF stress!
60
We wish things were different, but the harsh reality is that the Holiday season is
tough on a lot of people.
Our Holidays have not always been the most pleasant because of unhealthy
family relationships, financial stress, sickness and [fill in the blank] - the reasons
are endless. It seems like the devil and his minions wait all year to unload
on people negative thoughts, unhealthy emotions, and sickness (flu season
anyone?) smack-dab in the middle of the “happiest time of the year.”
But we’re here to let you know that you can THRIVE (emotionally, mentally and
spiritually) during the Holidays, and not just survive them.
And, for us, it all starts with prayer, preparation and making sure we fix our
stinkin’ thinkin’ by staying in God’s Word.
The Bible verses that you’ll find in this section have been the fountain of life for
us since we’ve become Christians nearly 20 years ago.
Truth be told, without Christ, we don’t know how we’d have gotten through all
these years of stressful Holiday get-togethers and we count our blessings every
year because things get better and better as we focus on our own spiritual
growth. And, there’s no better way to grow spiritually than by meditating on
God’s word!
We hope you spend a few minutes each day this Holiday season to pause, and
allow these verses to minister to your spirit.
61
Bible Verses About Thankfulness
If you’ve ever wondered what the best way to get into God’s presence is, it’s quite
simple: having a grateful heart and being lavish in your praise. That’s why one of
my favorite Bible verses about Thankfulness is, “Enter His gates with thanksgiving
and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and praise His name.” ~ Psalm 100:4
Were you laid off from work recently? Be thankful that the Lord has and will
continue to provide. Did you wreck your new car? Be thankful for your recovery
from that accident. What about losing a close friend or family member? Be
thankful in the life that God gave and the times you shared together. This task
seems overwhelmingly hard in times of sadness, but God is sovereign and rules
over all.
His plan is perfect, even if we do not understand it at the time. This is exactly
where our faith and trust is made true. Our thankfulness should come in spite
of our temporal circumstances, and because of His eternal grace and salvation.
While on this earth, we will have trials and tribulations, but our joy in Him should
keep our souls grateful, because we are ultimately complete in Him.
Our lives should not dictate what the soul feels. God is good, His love endures
forever! These words are the very reason our hearts should rejoice in
thanksgiving everyday!
May theses Bible verses about thankfulness give you something to reflect on
and to be thankful for in this season and always, that it may not be a one time
of year thing, but to see God’s goodness in all things daily. May you be blessed
abundantly!
62
Old Testament Bible Verses About Thankfulness
The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My
heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.
~ Psalm 28:7
Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the
peoples!
~ Psalm 105:1
Cry out, “Save us, God our Savior; gather us and deliver us from the nations, that we
may give thanks to your holy name, and glory in your praise.’”
~ 1 Chronicles 16:35
I will give thanks to the Lord because of his righteousness; I will sing the praises of the
name of the Lord Most High.
~ Psalm 7:17
With praise and thanksgiving they sang to the Lord: “He is good; his love toward Israel
endures forever.” And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, because
the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid.
~ Ezra 3:11
I will extol the LORD at all times; his praise will always be on my lips.
~ Psalm 34:1
Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise; give thanks to Him and
praise His name.
~ Psalm 100:4
And you will say in that day: “Give thanks to the Lord, call upon his name, make
known his deeds among the peoples, proclaim that his name is exalted. Sing praises
to the Lord, for he has done gloriously; let this be made known in all the earth.”
~ Isaiah 12:4-5
Praise the LORD. Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
~ Psalm 106:1
From them will come songs of thanksgiving and the sound of rejoicing. I will add to
their numbers, and they will not be decreased; I will bring them honor, and they will
not be disdained.
~ Jeremiah 30:19
63
My glory may sing your praise and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give thanks to
you forever!
~ Psalm 30:12
Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever.
~ Psalm 107:1
May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.
~ Psalm 20:4
Let us come before him with thanksgiving and extol him with music and song. For the
LORD is the great God, the great King above all gods.
~ Psalm 95:2-3
“I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving.”
~ Psalm 69:30
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were
called to peace. And be thankful.
~ Colossians 3:15
I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus.
~ 1 Corinthians 1:4
For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – and this is not from yourselves,
it is the gift of God.
~ Ephesians 2:8
Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father
of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
~ James 1:17
64
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with
thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
~ Philippians 4:6
Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God
through our Lord Jesus Christ,
~ Romans 5:1
For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
~ Romans 6:23
Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful,
and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our “God is a consuming
fire.”
~ Hebrew 12:28:29
For everything God created is good, and nothing is to be rejected if it is received with
thanksgiving, because it is consecrated by the word of God and prayer.
~ 1 Timothy 4:4-5
All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people
may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. Therefore we do not lose
heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day
by day.
~ 2 Corinthians 4:15-16
You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and
through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.
~ 2 Corinthians 9:11
This service that you perform is not only supplying the needs of the Lord’s people but
is also overflowing in many expressions of thanks to God.
~ 2 Corinthians 9:12
65
Bible Verses About Christmas
One of my favorite Bible verses for Christmas has to be this passage from Luke,
“At that time there was a man in Jerusalem named Simeon. He was righteous and
devout and was eagerly waiting for the Messiah to come and rescue Israel. The Holy
Spirit was upon him and had revealed to him that he would not die until he had seen
the Lord’s Messiah. That day the Spirit led him to the Temple. So when Mary and
Joseph came to present the baby Jesus to the Lord as the law required, Simeon was
there. He took the child in his arms and praised God, saying,
‘Sovereign Lord, now let your servant die in peace, as you have promised.
I have seen your salvation, which you have prepared for all people.
He is a light to reveal God to the nations, and he is the glory of your people Israel!’
(Luke 2:25-32)
At Christmas time I can’t help but wonder at the anticipation of Isaiah, the
wonder of the shepherds, the joy of Simeon, and the adoration of the wise men.
Christ, come down to earth, meek and lowly; a servant. Below are some of my
favorite bible verses for Christmas, starting with one of my favorite passages…
the day Simeon met the Messiah!
And so the gift is more personal than just a gift to the world at large. Our Savior
is a gift for YOU as an individual.Jesus changes our very hearts. His gift reaches
beyond some long ago day. He is a gift for us in the here and now.
Hallelujah!
His gift frees us from sin – a spiritual detox if you will. These Bible verses for
Christmas will help you remember just how powerful His coming is for us.
66
Old Testament Verses
Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and
bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.
~ Isaiah 7:14
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his
shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting
Father, Prince of Peace.
~ Isaiah 9:6
There shall come forth a shoot from the stump of Jesse, and a branch from his roots
shall bear fruit.
~ Isaiah 11:1
Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall call his name
Immanuel (which means, God with us).
~ Matthew 1:23
When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.
~ Matthew 2:10
And the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favor with God.
And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his
name Jesus.”
~ Luke 1:30-31
And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and
lying in a manger.
~ Luke 2:12
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When the angels went away from them into heaven, the shepherds said to one
another, “Let us go over to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the
Lord has made known to us.”And they went with haste and found Mary and Joseph,
and the baby lying in a manger.
~ Luke 2:15-16
And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy
that will be for all the people.”
~ Luke 2:10
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.
~ Luke 2:11
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is
pleased!
~ Luke 2:14
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Bible Verses About Comfort
During Hardship
One of my favorite Bible verses about comfort is, “Let your constant love comfort
me, as you have promised me, your servant.” (Psalm 119:76)
Sometimes when we are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, we
find ourselves in need of comfort.
I also have to remember that I do not have to walk in confusion or fear. God’s
peace is powerful and beyond our limited comprehension. But He is in control
and able to strength, carry, and help me, as these Bible verses about comfort
remind us.
The final reminder I want to highlight in these Bible verses about comfort is that
we are living a temporary life here on earth. We are given the chance to follow
God in an abundant, faith-filled life now. And then we are raised in eternal life
with Him later. Forever. The reminder that any mourning and pain is just for a
season comforts me.
It is, as always, my prayer that you will experience God’s peace, joy, and
encouragement in these Bible verses about comfort.
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Old Testament Verses
The LORD himself will lead you and be with you. He will not fail you or abandon you,
so do not lose courage or be afraid.
~ Deuteronomy 31:8
He sets on high those who are lowly, and those who mourn are lifted to safety.
~ Job 5:11
Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for
You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. … Surely goodness and
mercy shall follow me all the days of my life; and I will dwell in the house of the LORD
forever.
~ Psalm 23:4, 6
For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for life; weeping may endure for a
night, but joy comes in the morning.
~ Psalm 30:5
This poor man cried, and the LORD heard him and saved him out of all his troubles.
The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them.
~ Psalm 34:6-7
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High will abide in the shadow of the Almighty.
I will say to the LORD, My refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.
~ Psalm 91:1-2
Let your constant love comfort me, as you have promised me, your servant.
~ Psalm 119:76
Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; For the LORD GOD is my
strength and song, And He has become my salvation.
~ Isaiah 12:2
Do not fear, for I am with you; Do not anxiously look about you, for I am your God I
will strengthen you, surely I will help you, Surely I will uphold you with My righteous
right hand.
~ Isaiah 41:10
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For I, the LORD your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, Fear not, I am
the one who helps you.
~Isaiah 41:13
Sing, heavens! Shout for joy, earth! Let the mountains burst into song! The LORD will
comfort his people; he will have pity on his suffering people.
~ Isaiah 49:13
For I know the plans that I have for you,’ declares the LORD, ‘plans for welfare and not
for calamity to give you a future and a hope.
~ Jeremiah 29:11
The LORD is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble, And He knows those who take
refuge in Him.
~ Nahum 1:7
The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior He will exult over you with
joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy.
~ Zephaniah 3:17
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke
upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest
for your souls.
~ Matthew 11:28-29
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you
Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
~ John 14:27
When I go, you will not be left all alone; I will come back to you. In a little while the
world will see me no more, but you will see me; and because I live, you also will live.
~ John 14:18-19
I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will
have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!
~ John 16:33
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For I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared
with the glory that is to be revealed to us.
~ Romans 8:18
And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love
God, to those who are called according to His purpose.
~ Romans 8:28
No temptation has overtaken you but such as is common to man; and God is
faithful, who will not allow you to be tempted beyond what you are able, but with the
temptation will provide the way of escape also, so that you will be able to endure it.
~ 1 Corinthians 10:13
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and
God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to
comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are
comforted by God.
~ 2 Corinthians 1:3-4
Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away;
behold, new things have come.
~ 2 Corinthians 5:17
And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in
weakness ” Most gladly, therefore, I will rather boast about my weaknesses, so that
the power of Christ may dwell in me.
~ 2 Corinthians 12:9
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with
thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
~ Philippians 4:6
So we can confidently say, The Lord is my helper; I will not fear; what can man do to
me?
~ Hebrews 13:6
He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death’ or mourning or
crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.
~ Revelation 21:4
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Bible Verses About Depression
One of my favorite Bible verses about depression is, “Casting all your anxieties on
Him, because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7)
It reminds us how amazing we are and that we are stronger in Him. You are
more than just an overcomer, but you are a conqueror with the Mighty hand of
God by your side. May you be blessed Abundantly!
Take the time to answer these and really reflect where you are currently as a
believer. I have heard it said that “It is OK not to be OK, but it is not OK to stay
there”. God will be your strength, He will be the rock you stand on, and the
shoulder to cry on.
We have been thinking recently about our identity in Christ, and what precisely
that means. Just being reminded of the promises of God and the way He sees us
vs the way we see ourselves makes us smile.
And these lies can devastate us. God created humans to function with each other
in community. If you or someone you know struggles with suicidal thoughts or
tendencies, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255)
any time day or night 24/7, or go online at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
It’s time we call them out as the lies they are and speak God’s truth into our
hearts instead. Then His light will be able to flood the dark places with truth.
LIES
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⚫ you are a failure
⚫ you are weak
⚫ this is all your fault
TRUTH
Whether or not you struggle with feeling alone, we want to challenge you to go
read what the bible says about depression, and if you need to, print out and
hang a copy of the bible verses about depression on your fridge where you can
see them and be reminded constantly of His love for you.
And if you suffer from depression, we want you to know that you are NOT
alone. Even King David, the man after God’s own heart, showed signs of deep
depression on multiple occasions. Over and over again we see him sink low, then
rise again as he remembers where his Help and Healing come from.
No wonder the Psalms bring us so much encouragement and comfort. Let’s look
at some of our favorite bible verses about depression as part of a natural way to
help ease depression.
It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not leave you or forsake
you. Do not fear or be dismayed.
~Deuteronomy 31:8
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To the choirmaster. A Psalm of David. I waited patiently for the Lord; he inclined to
me and heard my cry. He drew me up from the pit of destruction, out of the miry
bog, and set my feet upon a rock, making my steps secure. He put a new song in my
mouth, a song of praise to our God. Many will see and fear, and put their trust in the
Lord.
~Psalm 40:1-3
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you,
I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
~Isaiah 41:10
A glad heart makes a cheerful face, but by sorrow of heart the spirit is crushed.
~Proverbs 15:13
For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for
evil, to give you a future and a hope.
~Jeremiah 29:11
The steps of a man are established by the Lord, when he delights in his way; though
he fall, he shall not be cast headlong, for the Lord upholds his hand.
~Psalm 37:23-24
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In
all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
~Proverbs 3:5-6
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for
you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
~Psalm 23:4
They will fight against you, but they shall not prevail against you, for I am with you,
declares the Lord, to deliver you.”
~Jeremiah 1:19
Anxiety in a man’s heart weighs him down, but a good word makes him glad.
~Proverbs 12:25
But you, O Lord, are a shield about me, my glory, and the lifter of my head.
~Psalm 3:3
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.
~Psalm 34:18
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Answer me quickly, O Lord! My spirit fails! Hide not your face from me, lest I be like
those who go down to the pit. Let me hear in the morning of your steadfast love, for in
you I trust. Make me know the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.
~Psalms 143:7-8
For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry
for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
~Psalms 30:5
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which
surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
~Philippians 4:6-7
Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind,
that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable
and perfect.
~Romans 12:2
Teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you
always, to the end of the age.
~Matthew 28:20
For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control.
~1 Timothy 1:7
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and
have it abundantly.
~John 10:10
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be
added to you.
~Matthew 6:33
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May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power
of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
~Romans 15:13
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will
have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.
~John 16:33
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor
things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation,
will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.
~Romans 8:38-39
Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke
upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest
for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
~Matthew 11:28-30
And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those
who are called according to his purpose.
~Romans 8:28
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Special Note: Bible Verses About Depression
Depression. Even reading or saying the word can start to bring me down a bit, so
where do I begin? One of the Bible Verses About Depression that comes to mind
is... Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one
will take away your joy ~ (John 16:22). As well, the writer of Ecclesiastes sums up
the range of our emotional responses to life with “there is a time for everything”.
Yes, this includes the natural human emotion of being depressed. I have been
there too, but God’s hand and my faith in Him brought me out of the deepest
darkest places.
The National Institute of Mental Health says that depression is a common, but
serious mood disorder. It causes severe symptoms that affect how you feel,
think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. Like
anxiety, depression is an emotional response that can easily take on physical
characteristics.
Historically in America, depression (along with all other mental illnesses) was
somewhat ignored by the mainstream and generally treated as something you
just needed to “get over”. But that’s not the attitude we see in these Bible verses
about depression. God’s heart is to heal us. Thankfully, due to horrendous high
profile tragedies over the past couple of decades, the tides have turned in our
response and care for those suffering from these debilitating diseases.
To be fair, there are many levels of depression. Some are just felt in the moment
of something that is indirect in our lives such as when we’re reading a biography
or watching a documentary that is detailing obstacles and struggles that we
strongly relate to in that emotive sense. Other times of depression might be felt
for extended time frames such as when a natural tragedy like a bad weather
event strikes our local community with devastation or we’re dealing with a job
loss and the financial strain it can lead to in our household.
Any type of depression can affect your daily activities. From the fleeting
momentary thought of something bad that causes you to pause and reflect
to the more sustained difficulty of not wanting to get out of bed or leave the
house for extended periods of time to “deal” with the world. Sometimes we
function well with depression and other times we don’t. Whatever your specific
circumstance is with depression, is unique to you and it’s not something to take
lightly. Being honest with yourself and having a good support group of family
and friends who you can be vulnerable with are keys to helping you overcome
various types and times of depression.
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The most important thing to do to get yourself out of the pit is seek God and
His Word of wisdom. All of the writers of Scripture were humans just like you
and I who experienced depression. They’ve walked before us in faith and most
wrote about their struggles in some form or fashion. That is where you start your
journey to dig yourself out of the hole of despair and unto unbridled joy.
Their human struggles are reflected in these Bible verses about depression and
our prayer is you learn from them. You are here and alive because God has a
plan for you. Lean on Him, and not your own understanding of how this life is
supposed to go. Ask other believers for help along the way and remember we’re
all in this together and He will see us through according to His will.
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Bible Verses About Family
One of my favorite Bible verses about family is, “Train up a child in the way he
should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Proverbs 22:6) So many
of my choices are made with my family in mind. It’s important to us to raise our
children in a godly way and to develop our family dynamics into something that
pleases the Lord.
Our family brings us joy and happiness, especially when things are going great.
But what about the times when there is tension between husband and wife,
tension between parents and children? How do you raise a Godly family in our
culture today? How do you bring back the joy in your household? How do you
stay strong when things are falling apart?
These Bible verses about family are a good place to start! God has provided us
with instruction on how to love and respect one another, how to communicate
with each other in love, and how to have complete faith in Him.
May these Bible verses about family give you a good starting point to dig in
deeper, to build a stronger foundation of faith for you and your family. May God
bless you and your family Abundantly!
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Old Testament Verses
Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from
it.
~ Proverbs 22:6
“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long in the land that the
Lord your God is giving you.
~ Exodus 20:12
Your wife will be like a fruitful vine within your house; your children will be like olive
shoots around your table.
~ Psalm 128:3
For I have chosen him, so that he will direct his children and his household after him
to keep the way of the Lord by doing what is right and just.
~ Genesis 18:19
Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like
arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man
who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his
enemies in the gate.
~ Psalm 127:3-5
An excellent wife is the crown of her husband, but she who brings shame is like
rottenness in his bones.
~ Proverbs 12:4
A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children, but the sinner’s wealth is
laid up for the righteous.
~ Proverbs 13:22
But the steadfast love of the Lord is from everlasting to everlasting on those who fear
him, and his righteousness to children’s children, to those who keep his covenant and
remember to do his commandments.
~ Psalm 103:17-18
And God blessed them. And God said to them, “Be fruitful and multiply and fill the
earth and subdue it and have dominion over the fish of the sea and over the birds of
the heavens and over every living thing that moves on the earth.”
~ Genesis 1:28
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Listen to your father who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is
old.
~ Proverbs 23:22
Then the man said, “This at last is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; she shall
be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.”
~ Genesis 2:23
Better a small serving of vegetables with love than a fattened calf with hatred.
~ Proverbs 15:17
He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him, and he must
do so in a manner worthy of full respect.
~ 1 Timothy 3:4
For this reason I kneel before the Father, from whom every family in heaven and on
earth derives its name.
~ Ephesians 3:14-15
Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for
her.
~ Ephesians 5:25
But I want you to understand that the head of every man is Christ, the head of a wife
is her husband, and the head of Christ is God.
~ 1 Corinthians 11:3
Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does
not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record
of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects,
always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails.
~ 1 Corinthians 13:4-8
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Let love be genuine. Abhor what is evil; hold fast to what is good.
~ Romans 12:9
Bear with one another and, if one has a complaint against another, forgive each
other; as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive.
~ Colossians 3:13
A devout man who feared God with all his household, gave alms generously to the
people, and prayed continually to God.
~ Acts 10:2
However, let each one of you love his wife as himself, and let the wife see that she
respects her husband.
~ Ephesians 5:33
And they said, “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved, you and your
household.” And they spoke the word of the Lord to him and to all who were in his
house. And he took them the same hour of the night and washed their wounds; and
he was baptized at once, he and all his family. Then he brought them up into his
house and set food before them. And he rejoiced along with his entire household that
he had believed in God.
~ Acts 16:31-34
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Bible Verses About Friendship
One of my favorite Bible verses about friendship comes from the book of
Proverbs, where it says “a friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for
adversity” ~Proverbs 17:17. The Bible has much to say about friendship and the
book of Proverbs seems to be the featured book of Scripture when it comes to
highlighting the virtues of true friends and the pitfalls of false ones.
What does friendship mean to you? That was the question Reader’s digest once
asked some of their fans and the responses were creative. Here are a few that I
particularly liked;
“Friendship is a majestic garden full of roses, butterflies and bees, supporting each
other for the sake of survival and realizing dreams.”
“Friendship is like a brilliant star which shines brighter when the sky turns darker.”
“Making a million friends is not a miracle. The miracle is to make a friend who will
stand by you when millions are against you.”
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“It is one of the blessings of old friends, that you can afford to be stupid with
them” ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
But beyond what man has to say about being friends with those around us, we
can read these Bible verses about friendship and see what God has to tell us!
Oh, for the days when I was in my prime, when God’s intimate friendship blessed my
house.
~ Job 29:4
The friendship of the LORD is for those who fear him, and he makes known to them
his covenant.
~ Psalm 25:14
A man of many companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend who sticks closer
than a brother.
~ Proverbs 18:24
Say to wisdom, “You are my sister,” and call insight your intimate friend,
~ Proverbs 7:4
Many seek the favor of a generous man, and everyone is a friend to a man who gives
gifts.
~ Proverbs 19:6
He who loves purity of heart, and whose speech is gracious, will have the king as his
friend.
~ Proverbs 22:11
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Faithful are the wounds of a friend; profuse are the kisses of an enemy.
~ Proverbs 27:6
Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his
earnest counsel.
~ Proverbs 27:9
Do not forsake your friend and your father’s friend, and do not go to your brother’s
house in the day of your calamity. Better is a neighbor who is near than a brother
who is far away.
~ Proverbs 27:10
Make no friendship with a man given to anger, nor go with a wrathful man.
~ Proverbs 22:24
But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my
friend;
~ Isaiah 41:8
Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
~ John 15:13
No longer do I call you servants, for the servant does not know what his master is
doing; but I have called you friends, for all that I have heard from my Father I have
made known to you.
~ John 15:15
And the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted
to him as righteousness” — and he was called a friend of God.
~ James 2:23
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You adulterous people! Do you not know that friendship with the world is enmity with
God? Therefore whoever wishes to be a friend of the world makes himself an enemy
of God.
~ James 4:4
Peace be to you. The friends greet you. Greet the friends, each by name.
~ 3 John 15
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Bible Verses About Joy
One of my favorite Bible verses about joy is, “And we are writing these things so
that our joy may be complete.” (1 John 1:4) It reminds us that God has a plan for us
in this life and it is joy-filled abundance. Isn’t that spectacular?
What Is Joy?
Many assume joy and happiness are one in the same. Or that you need
happiness to have joy. But when you meditate on Bible verses about joy you see
that in reality joy is a state of being all its own. Joy is deeply rooted in the soul.
We are made to seek satisfaction and pleasure. By God’s design we are made
to find joy in our Creator. We know the Bible says Jesus is our greatest and true
joy. Life with Him is better than anything else. No amount of fame or fortune can
compare to the ultimate satisfaction found in Him.
Even in a difficult time in our lives, our joy remains because of the love of our
Savior.
May these Bible verses about joy give you a positive outlook on life. No matter
your situation or problem, may your joy never be taken away, because Jesus is by
your side. Bless You Abundantly!
For in the day of trouble he will keep me safe in his dwelling; he will hide me in the
shelter of his sacred tent and set me high upon a rock. Then my head will be exalted
above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent I will sacrifice with shouts
of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord. Hear my voice when I call, Lord; be
merciful to me and answer me.
~ Psalm 27:5-7
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Many, Lord, are asking, “Who will bring us prosperity?” Let the light of your face shine
on us. Fill my heart with joy when their grain and new wine abound. In peace I will lie
down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety.
~ Psalm 4:6-8
You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with
eternal pleasures at your right hand.
~ Psalm 16:11
Then my head will be exalted above the enemies who surround me; at his sacred tent
I will sacrifice with shouts of joy; I will sing and make music to the Lord.
~ Psalm 27:6
Clap your hands, all you nations; shout to God with cries of joy. For the Lord Most
High is awesome, the great King over all the earth. He subdued nations under us,
peoples under our feet.
~ Psalm 47:1-3
My lips will shout for joy when I sing praise to you— I whom you have delivered.
~ Psalm 71:23
Hate evil, you lovers of the Eternal. He protects the souls of those who follow Him; He
rescues them from the devices of the wicked. Light is sown in the just; as it grows, it
brings joy to the pure of heart. Celebrate the Eternal God, all you who are faithful;
offer thanks to His holy name.
~ Psalm 97:10-12
The wicked have set a snare for me, but I have not strayed from your precepts. Your
statutes are my heritage forever; they are the joy of my heart. My heart is set on
keeping your decrees to the very end.
~ Psalm 119:110
For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have
done. How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts!
~ Psalm 92:4-5
Our mouths were filled with laughter, our tongues with songs of joy. Then it was said
among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done
great things for us, and we are filled with joy.
~ Psalm 126:2-3
Even though powerful princes conspire against me, I fix my mind on what You require.
Yes, Your testimonies are my joy; they are like the friends I seek for counsel.
~ Psalm 119:23-24
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A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
~ Proverbs 17:22
For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry
for the night, but joy comes with the morning.
~ Psalm 30:5
A Psalm for giving thanks. Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth!
~ Psalm 100:1
Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.
~ Psalm 51:12
How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy we have in the
presence of our God because of you?
~ 1 Thessalonians 3:9
Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before
him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the
throne of God. Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you
will not grow weary and lose heart.
~ Hebrews 12:2-3
Dear friends, do not be surprised at the fiery ordeal that has come on you to test you,
as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice inasmuch as you
participate in the sufferings of Christ, so that you may be overjoyed when his glory is
revealed. If you are insulted because of the name of Christ, you are blessed, for the
Spirit of glory and of God rests on you.
~ 1 Peter 4:12-14
May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power
of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
~ Romans 15:13
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Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.
~ James 1:2
Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy
may be full.
~ John 16:24
So also you have sorrow now, but I will see you again, and your hearts will rejoice,
and no one will take your joy from you.
~ John 16:22
For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking but of righteousness
and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.
~ Romans 14:17
Until now you have asked nothing in my name. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy
may be full.
~ John 16:24
And we are writing these things so that our joy may be complete.
~ 1 John 1:4
I am acting with great boldness toward you; I have great pride in you; I am filled with
comfort. In all our affliction, I am overflowing with joy.
~ 2 Corinthians 7:4
May you be strengthened with all power, according to his glorious might, for all
endurance and patience with joy.
~ Colossians 1:11
His master said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful
over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”
~ Matthew 25:21
For to the one who pleases him God has given wisdom and knowledge and joy, but
to the sinner he has given the business of gathering and collecting, only to give to one
who pleases God. This also is vanity and a striving after wind.
~ Ecclesiastes 2:26
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Bible Verses About Hope
One of my favorite Bible verses about hope would have to be, “Rejoice in hope, be
patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (Romans 12:12) Hope takes us on a
journey towards confidence and gives us a reason to come before the Lord.
We all have hopes and dreams. We have aspirations to get a better job, to travel
around the world, to get a car that won’t break down every other month, and,
God forbid, a hope that an abusive or toxic relationship would abruptly end. The
definition of hope is a feeling of expectation and desire for a certain thing to
happen. Having this feeling alone without some faithful action taken will never
bring your hope to reality.
What is there to do in times of darkness so deep that you cannot even imagine
the spark of a flame in the vision of the future? When hope is a distant thought,
you must act on your faith and take that proverbial “leap.” Faith, or acts of
faithfulness are there to remind you that there is something worth hoping for
even while you keep stumbling and falling in the darkness.
You were created for a purpose and believing in the purpose you were designed
for is the very reason to continue putting one foot in front of the other, and
fanning that spark or small glimmer of light until it turns into a flame of passion.
Once you reach this point, you are now in a position to help provide hope for
others. Encourage others with your testimony of falling into the abyss and yet
you have a story of triumph. God has firm promises for His children, that he will
not ultimately leave them nor forsake them.
May these Bible verses about hope bring you vision and clarity. May you be
strengthened to stand on the Rock of salvation. No matter how dark your
darkness is, the light will always overcome it. May you be blessed abundantly!
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Old Testament Verses
Of the increase of His government and peace there will be no end, upon the throne
of David and over His kingdom, to order it and establish it with judgment and justice
from that time forward, even forever more. The zeal of the Lord of hosts will perform
this.
~ Isaiah 9:7
They shall not hurt or destroy in all my holy mountain, for the earth shall be full of the
knowledge of the LORD as the waters cover the sea.
~ Isaiah 11:9
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the LORD, thoughts of peace and
not of evil, to give you a future and a hope.
~ Jeremiah 29:11
And in the days of these kings the God of heaven will set up a kingdom which shall
never be destroyed; and the kingdom shall not be left to other people; it shall break in
pieces and consume all these kingdoms, and it shall stand forever.
~ Daniel 2:44
Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the firmament, and those who
turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
~ Daniel 12:3
But everyone shall sit under his vine and under his fig tree, and no one shall make
them afraid; for the mouth of the LORD of hosts has spoken.
~ Micah 4:4
The LORD your God in your midst, the Mighty One, will save; He will rejoice over you
with gladness, He will quiet you with His love, He will rejoice over you with singing.
~ Zephaniah 3:17
Then those who feared the LORD spoke to one another, and the LORD listened and
heard them; so a book of remembrance was written before Him for those who fear
the LORD and who meditate on His name.
~ Malachi 3:16
Know that wisdom is such to your soul; if you find it, there will be a future, and your
hope will not be cut off.
~ Proverbs 24:14
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One thing have I asked of the LORD, that will I seek after: that I may dwell in the
house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze upon the beauty of the LORD and
to inquire in his temple. For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble; he will
conceal me under the cover of his tent; he will lift me high upon a rock.
~ Psalm 27:4-5
God is not man, that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.
Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?
~ Numbers 23:19
Though he slay me, I will hope in Him; yet I will argue my ways to his face.
~ Job 13:15
Be still, and know that I am God. I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted
in the earth!
~ Psalm 46:10
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. You shall love the LORD your God
with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
~ Deuteronomy 6:4-5
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord
your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.
~ Deuteronomy 31:6
Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.
~ Hebrews 11:1
Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the
water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will
become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.
~ John 4:13-14
While he was still speaking, there came from the ruler’s house some who said, “Your
daughter is dead. Why trouble the Teacher any further?” But overhearing what they
said, Jesus said to the ruler of the synagogue, “Do not fear, only believe.”
~ Mark 5:35-36
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May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power
of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
~ Romans 15:13
For whatever was written in former days was written for our instruction, that through
endurance and through the encouragement of the Scriptures we might have hope.
~ Romans 15:4
If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.
~ 1 Corinthians 15:19
That being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of
eternal life.
~ Titus 3:7
Paul, a servant of God and an apostle of Jesus Christ, for the sake of the faith of God’s
elect and their knowledge of the truth, which accords with godliness, in hope of eter-
nal life, which God, who never lies, promised before the ages began.
~ Titus 1:1-2
His lord said to him, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a
few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.”
~ Matthew 25:21
Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things
which God has prepared for those who love Him.
~ 1 Corinthians 2:9
Therefore, brethren, be even more diligent to make your call and election sure, for if
you do these things you will never stumble; for so an entrance will be supplied to you
abundantly into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
~ 2 Peter 1:10-11
Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall
be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him
as He is.
~ 1 John 3:2
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And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor
sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed
away.
~ Revelation 21:4
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Bible Verses About Peace
One of my favorite Bible verses about peace is, “But the fruit of the Spirit is love,
joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against
such things there is no law.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
It can be so hard to feel peaceful and be at peace with things going on around
you. But that’s where the Holy Spirit comes into play.
We can experience the perfect peace that God provides by simply trusting
in Him and allowing Him to work out His plans for our lives. No matter what
circumstances we face, we can confidently rest assured that God is working all
things together for our good and His glory! All we must do is trust and obey His
omniscient power and glory!
May these Bible verses and scriptural promises encourage you to trust in our
Loving Father, as He comforts and satisfies you with the perfect peace that only
He can provide! God Bless You Abundantly!
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Old Testament Verses
The LORD gives strength to his people; the LORD blesses his people with peace.
~ Psalm 29:11
Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it.
~ Psalm 34:14
Consider the blameless, observe the upright; a future awaits those who seek peace.
~ Psalm 37:37
I will listen to what God the LORD says; he promises peace to his people, his faithful
servants– but let them not turn to folly.
~ Psalm 85:8
Great peace have those who love your law, and nothing can make them stumble.
~ Psalm 119:165
When a man’s ways please the LORD, he makes even his enemies to be at peace with
him.
~ Proverbs 16:7
For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his
shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting
Father, Prince of Peace.
~ Isaiah 9:6
You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.
~ Isaiah 26:3
LORD, you establish peace for us; all that we have accomplished you have done for
us.
~ Isaiah 26:12
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“Though the mountains be shaken and the hills be removed, yet my unfailing love for
you will not be shaken nor my covenant of peace be removed,” says the LORD, who
has compassion on you.
~ Isaiah 54:10
For you shall go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and the hills
before you shall break forth into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their
hands.
~ Isaiah 55:12
Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives, do I give to you.
Let not your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful.
~ John 14:27
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you
have tribulation, but take courage; I have overcome the world.
~ John 16:33
Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our
Lord Jesus Christ. Through him we have also obtained access by faith into this grace in
which we stand, and we rejoice in hope of the glory of God.
~ Romans 5:1-2
For to set the mind on the flesh is death, but to set the mind on the Spirit is life and
peace.
~ Romans 8:6
Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual
edification.
~ Romans 14:19
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May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power
of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope.
~ Romans 15:13
The God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus
Christ be with you.
~ Romans 16:20
For God is not a God of disorder but of peace–as in all the congregations of the Lord’s
people.
~ 1 Corinthians 14:33
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,
gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
~ Galatians 5:22-23
Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving
let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all
comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 4:6-7
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were
called to peace. And be thankful.
~ Colossians 3:15
Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The
Lord be with all of you.
~ 2 Thessalonians 3:16
~ Hebrews 12:14
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Bible Verses About Stress & Anxiety
One of my favorite Bible verses about stress is, “Cast all your anxiety on Him
because He cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) Life often presents us with stressful
situations and it is easy to allow ourselves to succumb to fear, worry, and
anxiety.
My hope and prayer is that these Bible verses about stress and scriptural
promises will encourage your heart and help you to experience the true peace of
Christ, which surpasses all understanding!
Using natural therapies like essential oils for stress and aromatherapy for
anxiety often prove to be effective remedies, and making your own DIY anxiety
aromatherapy inhaler is a cinch!
But sometimes we need to address the spiritual and emotional root causes of
anxiety. This verse in Psalms says, “Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain
you; He will never let the righteous be shaken.” (Psalm 55:22)
It reminds me of how often the stress and anxiety we have in our life is
something we place on ourselves. It becomes a burden. One we choose.
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In these Bible verses about stress, one thing you’ll notice is the presence of
the Lord. He’s always here for us able and willing to pick up our burdens. The
question is, are you willing to let go?
I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be
shaken.
~ Psalm 16:8
The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; He delivers them from all their
troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in
spirit. A righteous man may have many troubles, but the Lord delivers him from them
all.
~ Psalm 34:17-19
Cast your cares on the Lord and He will sustain you; He will never let the righteous be
shaken.
~ Psalm 55:22
From the ends of the earth, I cry to you for help when my heart is overwhelmed. Lead
me to the towering rock of safety, for you are my safe refuge.
~ Psalm 61:3
Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all
your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
~ Proverbs 3:5-6
A joyful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones.
~ Proverbs 17:22
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Anxiety weighs down the heart, but a kind word cheers it up.
~ Proverbs 12:25
Say to those who have an anxious heart, “Be strong; fear not! Behold, your God will
come with vengeance, with the recompense of God. He will come and save you.
~ Isaiah 35:4
Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; but those who
hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will
run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
~ Isaiah 40:30-31
Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you,
I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
~ Isaiah 41:10
Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each
day has enough trouble of its own.
~ Matthew 6:34
Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my
yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will
find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.
~ Matthew 11:28-30
But the Lord answered her, “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about
many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will
not be taken away from her.”
~ Luke 10:41-42
Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me.
~ John 14:1
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In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.
~ John 16:33
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who
have been called according to his purpose.
~ Romans 8:28
Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with
thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which
surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 4:6-7
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.
~ Philippians 4:19
So we say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere
mortals do to me?”
~ Hebrews 13:6
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because
you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must
finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
~ James 1:2-4
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About the Authors
ERIC ZIELINSKI, D.C. has pioneered
natural living and biblical health educa-
tion since 2003. Trained as an aroma-
therapist, public health researcher, and
chiropractor, Dr. Z started NaturalLiving-
Family.com alongside his wife Sabrina
Ann in 2014 to help people learn how to
use natural remedies like essential oils
safely and effectively. Now visited by
more than three million natural health
seekers every year, it has rapidly be-
come the #1 source for Biblical Health
and non-branded essential oils educa-
tion online.