689 Scott Troy Road O Fallon, IL Phone: Website: Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr.

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1 689 Scott Troy Road O Fallon, IL chaginglives@nlicic.org Phone: Website: Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr., D.Min Senior Pastor

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3 Journal Contents Item Page Number Acknowledgements & Intro 4 Fasting Guide 5-7 January Fast/Consecration Schedule 8 Week One: Just Believe It 9-14 Week Two: Just Live It Week Three: Just Give It Week Four Details 27 Appendix A: Contact Info U Can Use 28 Appendix B: First Fruit Biblical Guide 29 Appendix C: Daniel Fast Option Appendix D: Restaurant Guide & Recipes News U Can Use/Connect with Us

4 Dear LifeChangers, Nike is famous for its Just Do It commercials telling athletes if they want to accomplish greatness and success they have to stop with the excuses and simply Just Do It. That principle isn t new. James 2:18 started it when he challenged his readers to stop talking about faith and start doing faith. In other words, if Micah is right, the just shall live by faith, then James command is spot on The just should just do it by faith! In fact, just believe it, just live it, just give it Just Do It. This year our them is Just Do It. Time out for excuses! God has a blessing for those who do what they say. God is looking for believers who walk match their talk. Jeremiah 29:11 says God has plans for us, to prosper us and not harm us in 2017, but we have to Just Do It. Success will not come without effort. God bless you! Bishop P.S. I would like to thank my executive assistant, Dagne Barton for helping me with this devotional guide. Dagne your dedication to completing this devotional is unmatched. Thank you! Thanks Lois Singleton & La- Donna Hudson for the recipes and Anne Patterson for assisting with typing! And finally my loving, understanding and caring wife of 34+ years. Glenda without your support, we would not be where we are today. I love you. Last but not least, my children Mahogany and Geoffrey II. I am so proud of your journey! 4

5 Fasting Guide Fasting is a spiritual discipline used for increasing faith, sanctification, repentance, power, strength and hearing from God. (Esther 4:16; Isaiah 58; Joel 1:14; Acts 13:2&3; Acts 14:23) Types of Fasting There are at least two known fasts in the Bible. 1. The Absolute Fast (Matthew 4:2) This is a total fast, which includes complete refraining from food or drink for the duration of the fast. (Best done after following preparation steps 1-5 above). There will be periods of time when you can do absolute during the month of January 2. The Partial Fast (Daniel 10:3) This fast is from particular food or things that hinder our spiritual growth. 3. The Daniel Fast This is a biblically based partial fast. There are two anchoring scriptures for the Daniel Fast. In Daniel 1 the Prophet ate only vegetables (that would have included fruits) and drank only water. So from these scriptures we get two of the guidelines for the fast YOUR 21-DAY OPTION 1: (see appendix for more information) 1. Only fruits and vegetables 2. Only water for a beverage In Daniel 10 we read that the Prophet ate no meat nor any breads or foods and he drank no wine for 21 days. So from this scripture, we get a third guideline: 3. No sweets and no breads -OR YOUR 21-DAY OPTION 2: 1. Is still only fruits and vegetables but 2. Includes dairy, breads, pasta. NOTE: Fasting is not a diet or weight reduction plan. Consult your physician before you fast if you are any medications or required to eat for other health reasons (diabetics, etc). BISHOP DUDLEY AND NEW LIFE IN CHRIST INTERDENOMINATIONAL CHURCH ADVISE ALL LIFE CHANGERS TO CONSIDER THEIR PERSONAL HEALTH NEEDS AND TO CONSULT WITH THEIR PERSONAL PHYSICIAN PRIOR TO STARTING THIS OR ANY FAST. 5

6 Fasting Guide (Cont) How to Prepare for the Daniel Fast Quiet Time: If you don't already have an established daily quiet time with the Lord, then this is an excellent opportunity to do so. Starting your day with God is a habit that will support your faith and growing intimacy with the Lord. During your Daniel Fast, be sure to set a daily time to come before the Lord, to study His Word and His ways. How to Begin Spiritually: Start with a clear personal goal in addition to our corporate goals. Be specific. Why are you fasting? Do you need direction, healing, restoration of marriage or family issues? Are you facing financial difficulties? Ask the Holy Spirit for guidance. Pray daily and read the Bible. Prepare spiritually by confessing your sins to God. Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas of weakness. Forgive all who have offended you and ask forgiveness from those you may have offended (Mark 11:25; Luke 11:4; 17:3-4). Surrender your life fully to Jesus Christ and reject the worldly desires that try to hinder you (Romans 12:1-2). Scripture References for Fasting: Matthew 6:16-18, Matthew 9:14-15, Luke 18:9-14 Relation to Prayer and Reading of the Word: 1 Samuel 1:6-8, 17-18, Nehemiah 1:4, Daniel 9:3, 20, Joel 2:12, Luke 2:37, Acts 10:30, Acts 13:2 Corporate Fasting: 1 Samuel 7:5-6, Ezra 8:21-23, Nehemiah 9:1-3, Joel 2:15-16, Jonah 3:5-10, Acts 27:33-37 What to Expect during the Fast: When you fast your body detoxifies, eliminating toxins from your system. This can cause mild discomfort such as headaches and irritability during withdrawal from caffeine and sugars. And naturally, you will have hunger pains. Limit your activity and exercise moderately. Take time to rest. Fasting brings about miraculous results. You are following Jesus' example when you fast. Spend time listening to praise and worship. Pray as often as you can throughout the day. Get away from the normal distractions as much as possible and keep your heart and mind set on seeking God's face. Remember that it is the attitude of a heart sincerely seeking Him to which God responds with a blessing. Whether you choose option 1 or 2, make it sacrificial for you. This fast is not about rules of eating this or that it is about JUST DOING IT just fasting for the purpose of drawing closer to God. May God greatly bless you as you fast! 6

7 When you fast: Fasting o Fasting is waiting. - Lamentations 3:25-27 o Fasting is drawing near. - Jeremiah 29:11-13 o Expect strength in your inner character. o Find power to leave sinful habits. - 2 Corinthians 7:1 o Find power to stay focused in prayer. o Find yourself desiring God s presence. o Expect the hand of God to move to answer unselfish prayers. How to succeed in fasting: o Matthew 18:19 o Set a start date and end date. o Determine you will follow through on the fast. o Isaiah 58:1-11 o Fasting does not work if you do not pray. Corporate Prayer times: First Saturdays 730am Congregational Prayer in the Sanctuary Noon Day Prayer each Wednesday 715am Prayer Call each Wednesday x

8 January Schedule Week 1-3 Sunday, January 1 - Saturday, January 7 Revival!!! Wednesday, Jan 11th Wednesday, Jan 18th Wednesday, Jan 25th Week 4 Monday, January 23 Friday, January DAY FAST IS EITHER OPTION 1 OR 2 - IT IS ALWAYS NO MEAT AND NO SWEETS STARTING MONDAY, JANUARY 2 Small Groups begin this week Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr., D.Min. 730pm Pastor Patrick Winfield 730pm Bishop Darryl D. Woodson 730pm 3x a Day Prayer: Monday Friday 715am Prayer Call x Noon Day Prayer 6pm Prayer 24-Hours of Prayer First Fruits Invites! Saturday, January 28 Come during any of the prayer times to pray in the sanctuary from 7am Saturday 7am Sunday. You are welcomed anytime that works for you. Sunday, January 29th First Fruits and Celebration Sunday! Friends and Family Casual Sunday! Family Reunion style Tribe Fellowships Sunday, February 5th Super Bowl Sunday! immediately following 11am service 8am; 1010 North & 11am wear your favorite team jersey! 8

9 Our Journey His Story: Year 5 JUST DO IT! James 2:18 New International Version But someone will say, "You have faith; I have deeds." Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds. GOD'S WORD Translation Another person might say, "You have faith, but I do good things." Show me your faith apart from the good things you do. I will show you my faith by the good things I do. The Message Translation 18 I can already hear one of you agreeing by saying, Sounds good. You take care of the faith department; I ll handle the works department. Not so fast. You can no more show me your works apart from your faith than I can show you my faith apart from my works. Faith and works, works and faith, fit together hand in glove. Jesus said all things are possible if we just believe. What is impossible for man is possible with God. Jesus was not just talking about a statement of faith, a cognitive intention of a chemical reaction in our brains. Jesus was talking about the fundamental belief in God and the actions that follow. In other words, when we say we believe, because it is impossible to please God if you don't believe, we are also talking about our behavior. We must comply with God's word when we say we believe. So this week is about you believing God for big things in 2017 but compliance with God s word is a requirement to receive big blessings. Just Believe It Week One January 1 7 Daniel Fast Option 1 or 2 Day 1 Sunday, January 1, 2017 Today s Truth: James 1: 6 But when you ask, you must believe and not doubt, because the one who doubts is like a wave of the sea, blown and tossed by the wind. Point to Ponder: James the brother of Jesus gives a clear explicit definition for believing Wavering in doubt will get you nowhere. The motion of your ocean of doubt will result in a seasick state and nothing to show for the journey. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to be steadfast and unmovable in my belief that you will bless me in

10 Day 2 Monday, January 2, 2017 Today s Truth: Romans 1: 17 For in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: The righteous will live by faith. Point to Ponder: Paul equates our believing with our righteousness. Belief in God is a prerequisite to receiving anything from God. That basis belief is the basis of receiving blessings from God. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, I believe in you, increase my Faith so I can receive all you have for me in

11 Day 3 - Tuesday, January 3 rd Today s Truth: Matthew 17: 20 He replied, Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, Move from here to there, and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you. Point to Ponder: Jesus reference to faith and our belief is like a mustard seed is a window into how durable he thinks our faith should be. He also wants us to know it can start small but grow to be very large. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, give me mustard seed faith and durable dependable behavior that reflects my faith. Day 4 Wednesday, January 4 th Prayer 715am x Today s Truth: 1 Peter 1: These have come so that the proven genuineness of your faith of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. 8 Though you have not seen him, you love him; and even though you do not see him now, you believe in him and are filled with an inexpressible and glorious joy, 9 for you are receiving the end result of your faith, the salvation of your souls. Point to Ponder: Peter is telling his readers who are under tremendous amount of persecution that their trials actually served to grow their faith. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to endure hard times and lift heavy burden so I can grow the muscles of my faith 11

12 Day 5 Thursday, January 5 th Today s Truth: 1 Corinthians 16: 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. Point to Ponder: Paul is warning the church at Corinth that their faith and belief systems will come under spiritual attack. Their vigilance will make all the difference. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to keep the faith even under the most severe attacks. 12

13 Day 6 Friday, January 6 th Today s Truth: Romans 10:17 So faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ. Point to Ponder: The simple formula to grow faith is - listen to the word - do the word. What are you listening to? It will feed your faith to grow it or your doubt to kill it. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to listen to and for your word so my faith can grow. Day 7 Saturday, January 7 th Today s Truth: Proverbs 3:5-6 ESV 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. Point to Ponder: The writer of Proverbs is profound in his simplicity to get to the point of faith and belief. Your way is no way to increase your faith; his way leads too greater faith and greater rewards. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to trust you explicitly without fail. 13

14 Illustration Making It By Mark Brunner (sermoncentral.com illustrations) He had a job most people despised. In fact, his job most often elicited laughs than it did applause. He lived alone since his wife died. There were times that he would go on long fasts, sitting in front of his humble home, drawing stares from his neighbors. He didn t seem to have much in the way of money or material goods at all. Even his friends were few. Those friends he had confessed that they really didn t understand or identify with him either. He did his job faithfully but the more he put into it, the less he seemed to get little from it. He was a teacher by trade but his school lacked many students. The message he taught was not popular. Yet, this didn t seem to dissuade him in the least. To most people he was a complete failure, a crackpot, a real loser. When people met him in the streets they were most likely to pass on the other side of the road shaking their heads. What a waste of a life. Who was this sad and lonely man? Believe it or not, he was one of the most influential men of all time; right up there on the top ten list of great teachers of any age. His name? The prophet Jeremiah. During his lifetime he had little or no following that acclaimed his great abilities or confessed as their belief his teachings. For the most part, he was despised and ridiculed by the very people God had sent him to teach. By temporal measures, he was a complete failure; living an ignominious life, divorced from fame, popularity and fortune. Successful? Not at least by these measures. Former Senator Mark Hatfield tells of touring Calcutta with Mother Teresa and visiting the so-called House of Dying, where sick children are cared for in their last days, and the dispensary, where the poor line up by the hundreds to receive medical attention. Watching Mother Teresa minister to these people, feeding and nursing those left by others to die, Hatfield was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of the suffering she and her coworkers face daily. How can you bear the load without being crushed by it? he asked. Mother Teresa replied, My dear Senator, I am not called to be successful, I am called to be faithful. (Beals, Beyond Hunger.) God did not call Jeremiah to be successful by any other standard than faith itself. The work that He had for Jeremiah to do was far too important to be judged by such temporal standards as fame, popularity or fortune. These things are here today and gone the next. No, the work He called him to do was faith work--work not often rewarded this side of heaven. It is the same work that our Heavenly Father has called us to do; work that is measured by our willingness to be obedient and holy in His sight. The world may know us as crackpots and failures, but by His standards we are really making it. 14

15 Just Live It Week Two: January 8 th - 14 th Daniel Fast Option 1 or 2 Some of us can talk a good game. We are at our best when it comes down to should've, would've, could've. We sell the best wolf tickets in the world. Our mouths constantly write checks our lives don't cash. We excuse ourselves when the challenge is too great or obstacles too hard. We want success but our actions fall far short of our wants. This week is designed to get you to be about it not just talk about it. The time for talk is over if you want 2017 to be all that God has designed it to be then just live it. Day 8 Sunday, January 8 th Today s Truth: Philippians 4:13 ESV I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Point to Ponder: Under a withering amount of criticism persecution and even chained to guards Paul wrote these words. I am only precluded by doing all things when I don t allow the lord to strengthen me. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help give me your strength today. I am fresh out of my strength. I want to live it not just talk about it. 15

16 Day 9 Monday, January 9 th Today s Truth: James 2:17 ESV So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. James 2:14 ESV What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Point to Ponder: James insight into faith gives us revelation for living out our faith and not just talking about our faith. Faith is a verb. It needs to be activated by my actions. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to walk out my faith not talk out my faith. Day 10 Tuesday, January 10 th Today s Truth: James 1:22-25 But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks intently at his natural face in a mirror. For he looks at himself and goes away and at once forgets what he was like. But the one who looks into the perfect law, the law of liberty, and perseveres, being no hearer who forgets but a doer who acts, he will be blessed in his doing. Point to Ponder: Mirror, Mirror on the wall do I really walk out my faith at all? James uses the analogy of a mirror to reflect the revelation that faith is seen not just heard. The mirrors during biblical times were dark metal and not very reflective so one's action had to be demonstrative to be seen to be seen. So should our faith. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to apply your word and reflect the image of your word. 16

17 Day 11 Wednesday, January 11 th Prayer 715am x Today s Truth: Matthew 23:1-39 ESV Then Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples, The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat, so practice and observe whatever they tell you but not what they do. For they preach, but do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens, hard to bear, and lay them on people's shoulders, but they themselves are not willing to move them with their finger. They do all their deeds to be seen by others Point to Ponder: Jesus is essentially saying the Pharisees do not practice what they preach. He is also saying by default that's not his lifestyle and neither should it be the disciples or ours. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to say what I live and live what I say. Day 12 Thursday, January 12 th Today s Truth: Ephesians 6: 16 Above all, carry the shield of faith so that you can extinguish the flaming arrows of the evil one. Point to Ponder: When Paul writes this he is looking at the soldiers who are guarding him. He uses the analogy of armor on battle hardened soldiers to tell the church at Ephesus how to use their faith. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to be a soldier of faith ready to go into battle with my faith. 17

18 Day 13 Friday, January 13 th Today s Truth: John 14: 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. Point to Ponder: John is telling his readers great works happen when they access the one inside of them. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to see the greatness of Jesus in my life and trust him for greater works in my life. Day 13 Friday, January 13 th Today s Truth: John 14: 12 Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father. Point to Ponder: John is telling his readers great works happen when they access the one inside of them. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to see the greatness of Jesus in my life and trust him for greater works in my life. 18

19 Day 14 Morning Glory 730am - Saturday, January 14 th Today s Truth: Philippians 4:9 ESV What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you. Point to Ponder: Paul is very confident of his lifestyle so much so he can tell them to emulate him. Practice makes perfect especially when it s the word of God. These are the words of someone not writing verbal checks but living out what they say. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to practice what I preach. Illustration from a LifeChanger Bishop: I couldn't let this morning pass with out telling you I bless God for you & 1st lady. I bless God for your spirit of having Wednesday morning prayer&1st Saturday corporate prayer. Since last September, September 3, 2015 to be exact. I got a call from my Dr. to come back to the office. I thought it was weird & strange to be getting a call, but I followed up. The news I received when I returned to the Dr. I was not ready for. The Dr. proceeded to tell me there were pre-c...yes..i won't even say it. But those cells were in my body...&when he said what he said.. I WOULDN'T REPEAT IT..I have been going back & forth to the Dr every couple of months not saying anything to anyone...not even my parents. All I could do is say by your stripes Lord I am healed for you are able to do exceedingly, abundantly, above anything I could ask or think...god..i trust you even though I can't TRACE you for what I'm dealing with..i'm walking by FAITH & not by sight...i SPEAK THOSE THINGS that ARE NOT AS THOUGH they were & I SPEAK LIFE FOR I AM HEALED... The power of God moved so mighty on Father's Day..when I was praising & worshipping in the 11 service...the Lord told me to lay Prostrate before him. Bishop, I tell you I didn't care what No Body was thinking cause I knew I was dealing with darts from the enemy.. So there I was on my face in front of everyone crying out to the LORD. Mind you the choir was dressed in white bottoms & yellow tops that Sunday... I DIDN'T CARE...I told 1st lady after service, I have to be OBE- DIENT to the Lord & not worry about what people think. She said yes... You have to be OBEDIENT to God. I will have you to know I went to the Dr on yesterday (6/28/2016)& there are NO MORE PRE-C cells in my body!!!!! We serve an AWESOME GOD&YES...IT MATTERS WHERE YOU WORSHIP!!!! So, if GOD HEALED my body, he can fix the dart of this Job situation I'm dealing with & yes... FINISH Building This campus!!! SOULS and God is concerned... We have to continue walking IN FAITH...!!!!!!!! Let the naysayers talk!!!!! We SERVE an AWESOME GOD!!!!!!! 19 Servant of God, LifeChanger CaSSandra Grinston

20 Just Give It Week Three: January nd Daniel Fast Option 1 or 2 + No Media Week Every year some of us say we are going to get out of debt, spend more carefully, budget, save, invest and tithe. But every year we fail to do it. Declare now - this is the year I will just give it. and do it when it comes to my finances. This year is your year! This is the year you just do it: give tithes, first fruit, budget, get out of debt, stop spending frivolously and invest in your future. Day 15 Sunday, January 15 th Today s Truth: 2 Corinthians 9:6-8 The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work. Point to Ponder: Paul in his appeal to the Corinthian church to help the Jerusalem church makes it explicitly clear giving produces blessings. I control how much I will be blessed by how much I give. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to be a giver! 20

21 Day 16 Monday, January 16 th Today s Truth: 2 Corinthians 9:7 ESV Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. Point to Ponder: My heart contains the amount I need to give. It is where my treasure is. When my heart is with God my treasure flows freely. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me search my heart so I can give cheerfully. Day 17 Tuesday, January 17 th you left me and you asked me how Today s Truth: Malachi 3:10 ESV Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need. Point to Ponder: The revelation in Malachi is the tithe is reflective of the position of the Israelites heart which has left God. Evidence their hearts left is the relational language that Malachi uses when he says they left God (abandoned) the relationship. The only way to return to God is giving the treasure which is where the heart is. Matthew said wherever your treasure is there is your heart. Israel not tithing is an indication they fallen out of love with God. So it is the same thing with us. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to give you my heart and in my heart will be my tithes and offerings. 21

22 Day 18 Wednesday, January 18 th - Prayer 715am x Today s Truth: Luke 6:38 ESV Give, and it will be given to you. Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you. Point to Ponder: Luke raises the issue of reciprocity. How much are you measuring out is how much you will get back. Just give what you want to come back. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to use a big measuring cup when it comes down to giving my time, talent, and treasures. Day 19 Thursday, January 19 th Today s Truth: Acts 20:35 In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, It is more blessed to give than to receive. Point to Ponder: Jesus very own words employ us to give. Jesus does not dance around the just give it in fact Jesus says just do it Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to do what you told me was a blessing to do. 22

23 Day 20 Friday, January 20 th Today s Truth: 2 Corinthians 8:14 Your abundance at the present time should supply their need, so that their abundance may supply your need, that there may be fairness. Point to Ponder: Paul told the church at Corinth when they helped the church of Jerusalem that God would help them. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help me to know your abundance awaits those who give to build your kingdom Day 21 Saturday, January 21 st Today s Truth: Proverbs 3:9 CEV - Honor the Lord by giving him your money and the first part of all your crops. 10 Then you will have more grain and grapes than you will ever need. Psalms 24:1 - The earth is the Lord s, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. Point to Ponder: God will honor his word when you give him an honorarium. Everything belongs to him and he is promised to bless us. Point to Pray: Dear Lord, help us to honor you with my money. 23

24 Illustration/Footnote from LifeChangers My friends, this is my story: I became a LifeChanger three years ago Mother's Day. I grew up in the church, but had been without a church home for many years. My cousin Marsha would always invite me to church and events - some I attended, some I did not. Whatever the occasion she would always ask and though I may not have attended, I told her not to stop asking and she did not and eventually I became a Life Changer. The Bishop would speak about Tithes and Offering and the Three Year Commitment. This made me nervous because I am retired and on a fixed income. I wondered how I would make my living expenses with the extra amount to the church. Although I was obedient, I did it with a heavy heart. It was not until Bishop gave a visual demonstration in church one Sunday that it all fell into place. He showed us (with actual money) the 10% that belong to God and the 90% that was kept. It was like a light turned on and changed my heart. I see it so differently now and although I make meet all my commitments, I do so with a loving spirit. It is the first check I write & I feel so good about it I can't explain it, but have a bit more money left at the end of the month! Oh but GOD! Just be obedient. Thank you Bishop! We should be reminded ever so often with the visual. By the way, I also volunteer at the church and meet so many people and the best part, get SO many hugs! Thank you for your leadership, Bishop! LifeChanger Brenda Vickers * * * My name is Shirley Williams. I have been a Life Changer for 6 or 7 years. Bishop asked us to do the Automatic, which is have your tithes deduct & post automatically. I did the 90-day tithe challenge in I was afraid I would not have enough money to function for the month, but I didn't stop the Automatic tithing. In 2013, I was forced to retired from my job. God took me out of a bad situation. I didn't want to retire because I was not prepared financially. The Lord told me, when I retired, I got you, but I didn't listen. I began looking for other employment, but nothing came through. I stopped looking and said I will have to live with what I have, then told the Lord OK I hear you. After that, money started coming in from different sources. One story in particular, I was going home from Wednesday night service and my transmission in my car went out. I saw another Life Changer and he waited with me for the tow truck and he gave me a ride home. The next day I had to have a new transmission installed in my car. Months later, there was a recall on the transmission. I took it back to the dealer and was told I will get a total refund from the manufacturer and they fixed the transmission for free. This is just a few examples of my blessings! My tithing is AUTOMATIC. I give to my pledge and I give offering. As Bishop says, trust God. Sometimes, it seems hard to do, but the hardest thing to do is the right thing to do. Obedience supersedes everything God has for you. 24

25 Illustration/Footnote I have a testimony about Tithing that I would like to share with you! I was in church last Wednesday and when Bishop Bronner said to give your best that reflects the word that was spoken I gave $5. I heard $55 but chose to only give $5. I knew that $55 would be coming out of checking account automatically in 2 days for my cell bill so I ignored what I heard. Then Bishop stood up and said its s ten of you who did not give what God laid on your heart! I wrestled with myself for a moment and then decided to give/add $50 making my giving a total $55. The next day I received word that my child support order came out of my children s father check and I was happy because I had been fighting for it for some time. The money however had not reached me yet. It set me back. I needed that money yesterday and I had no clue what I was going to do. I prayed. I was a bit angry but knew in my heart somehow God would work this out! I asked three family members for the money and they simply did not have it. Then God stepped in and reminded me of some money I had forgot all about. I got the money I need which was above what I had asked my family for. Tithing was not my struggle. Giving an offering use to be but not anymore! Lesson learned! God is faithful! I will trust him with every dime that I have! God provided a ram in the bush for me as he did for Abraham because of our obedience and willingness to trust him! LifeChanger Joy Grundy 25

26 Illustration/Footnote: It s been a hard, stressful three years for us. It seems that from the moment we pledged to give (what I later calculated to be 100% over our annual giving) for the capital campaign, we were hit with many financial challenges. We ended up having to deplete our savings six months into the first year of the campaign. The second year was so much more challenging that we ended up taking on over $50,000 in debt! But through all of that, God was in the mist and we continued to trust Him. We never stopped tithing and we never stopped giving towards our pledge. Sometimes we could only give $5 towards that overwhelming amount we pledged. However, in the beginning of 2015, our primary focus was to get rid of our debt. We had a plan and felt good about it. But we left room for God to lead us in what we should do. I think it was Bishop Fernandez who reminded us that if we take care of God s house, He will take care of ours. And it was Bishop Kim Brown who warned us about mistaking a seed for fruit. Wow! Immediately, we changed our focus. With every raise, tax refund, and bonus, we put most of it towards our campaign pledge. Normally, after tithing on bonuses and raises, we would have applied the rest towards our debt. So the decision to put it towards the campaign was not easy. To be honest, the debt felt like a dark cloud hovering over us for most of this year. But we trusted and, are trusting God. As we reflect on this year, 2015 brought on a long awaited promotion in July. Pastor Govan said that they were creating a position for someone, and they did. Because of the promotion, bonuses were higher than we ve ever seen. And in November, an additional raise, just for doing a good job in the new role! And as we sat down in early December to calculate our first fruit giving, we found that our salary collectively, had increased by 20% versus this time last year! We are living proof that if you take care of God s house, he will take care of yours. If you stay faithful, prayerful, and obedient to His word, God will not let you down. We are still a ways away from completing our pledge, but we have our priorities together. God has shown His faithfulness and if He did it before, He can do it again. God Bless you man of God! We are so grateful for the vision God gave you. This past year (2015), the monthly revival has blessed us so much. We pray your strength and that this encourages you. LifeChangers and Financial Coaches Dexter and Crystal Hardiman (Testimony written ) 26

27 1p-3p Children/Teen 24 Hours of Prayer 7am Saturday January 28th through 7am Sunday the 29th in the sanctuary Join Anytime! 7am-9am Women of Virtue 9a-11a Helps Ministries 11a-1p Worship Arts 3p-5p Mentors/GO Ministry/Small Group Leaders 5p-7p New Life North Leaders/Ministry Team 7p-9p Men of Valor 9p-11p Tribes 11 and 12 11p-1a Tribes 9 and 10 1a-3a Tribes 1, 2 and 3 3a-5a Tribes 4, 5 and 6 5a-7a Tribes 7 and 8 27

28 Appendix A Contact Info U Can Use SENIOR PASTOR Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr., nlicic@nlicic.org Lady Glenda Dudley - ladyd@nlicic.org Pastoral Church Staff Office Phone Dagne Barton, Executive Assistant to Bishop & Pastoral Care, Projects & Ministry Director dbarton@nlicic.org Vivian Phelps, Finance & Operations Director vphelps@nlicic.org Pastor Jermaine Manor, Worship & Arts Pastor jmanor@nlicic.org Pastor Mahogany Dudley, Children s Pastor mdudley@nlicic.org Pastor Travis Finley, Youth Pastor tfinley@nlicic.org Ministry Tribes Contact List Duty Minister Cell Phone # IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO REACH YOUR TRIBE LEADER PLEASE CONTACT THE DUTY MINISTER for any tribe: changinglives@nlicic.org TRIBE 1 REUBEN: Last Name Begins w/ A-Br Leader: Pastor Lillie Sexton Deacon John & Sis. Ethel Coleman TRIBE 2 SIMEON: Last Name Begins w/ Bu-C Tribe Leader: Deacon Rodney Skinner Deacon Darryl Durden Min Kimberly Skinner TRIBE 3 LEVI: Last Name Begins w/ D-Fo Tribe Leader: Elder Mary Leige & Deac Mike Holland TRIBE 4 JUDAH Last Name Begins w/ Fr-Ha Tribe Leader: Minister Jan Lawson Deacon Gregory Collins TRIBE 5 MANASSEH Last Name Begins w/ He-Je Leader: Elder Pamela Dorsey Deac Mitch Nash TRIBE 6 NAPHTALI: Last Name Begins w/ Ji-K Tribe Leader: Elder Everett Holmon Min. Crystal Amos TRIBE 7 GAD: Last Name Begins w/ L-Mi Tribe Leader: Minister Joey Hudson MiT Vivian Phelps TRIBE 8 ASHER Last Name Begins w/ Mo-Pl Tribe Leader: Elder Linda Omondi Deacon Darryl Dixon TRIBE 9 ISSACHAR: Last Name Begins Po-Se Tribe Leader: Elder Marjorie Fulton Elder Efrem Rivers TRIBE 10 ZEBULON: Last Name Begins w/ Sh-Te Tribe Leader: Elder Percy Singleton Minister Carolyn Marshall TRIBE 11 JOSEPH: Last Name Begins Th-We Tribe Leader: Deacon James Thomas Deacon Anthony & Min Sherry McDonald TRIBE 12 Benjamin: Last Name Begins Wh-Z Tribe Leader: Elder Amelda Jones Minister Robert Goodwin New Life North Pastoral Team Lead Elder Elder Roman Wells Asst Lead Elder Crystal Martin-Nicholson Lead Deacon Jody Salley Deacon Mike & Min. Sherry Cook - WSC Min. Val Johnson - WSC Deacon Myles Holt Mit Annetta Salley Intercessory & FollowUp YOUNG ADULTS LEAD MiT Geoff Dudley II 28

29 Appendix B First Fruits History & Biblical Overview The Historical Context of First Fruits: What is First Fruit? The significance of this holy day, like most other biblical festivals, can be largely understood by its name. First Fruits is one of the shelosh regalim, the three festivals for which every Jewish male goes to Jerusalem if possible (Deuteronomy 16:16). First Fruits is included in this exclusive list. It is prophetically significant in God s plan for his people. God s faithfulness in providing the early wheat harvest increases hopefulness for an abundant fall harvest (Sukkot). Giving thanks for present provision leads to faith for future addition. Lev. 2:12 The last day of the Unleavened Bread is the celebration of the First fruits (Yom HaBikkurim), taking to the Temple the first fruit, the first born animal, the first sheaf of barley... it is symbolic of Jesus being the first of the First fruits (1Cor.15:23) When is it given? The feast of the first fruits were held consecutively on the fourteenth, fifteenth and sixteenth days of the first month of the Jewish calendar. How is it given? Lev. 23:9-10 Why did they do it? God claims the first fruits of everything. He has first claim on our lives. Lev. 23:9-24 Honors God Sets you up for blessings Ez. 49:30 Required Exodus 22:29; Neh. 10:35; 2 Chr. 31:5 Jesus didn t change it in the New Testament The impact of first fruit Makes the whole holy - Romans 11:16 Pleases God - Jer. 2:3 Power of first fruits Gen. 4:3-14 Cain and Abel Results of First Fruit/Tithing Blessing upon Blessing Barns filled & overflowing - Prov. 3:9-10 Rebuke the devourer - Mal. 3:11 Invoke the supernatural - Mal. 3:10 Eliminates the fear of giving. You planting and receiving/harvesting reinforces order in the earth. 1 Tim 6:5-10 Enhances contentment 1 Tim 6:5-10 Blessings for the giver. Ez. 44:30 Increase faith Phil. 4:

30 Appendix C: Daniel Fast Option 1 Sample Meals; Shopping List; Meal Plan OPTION 1 DANIEL FAST Fruits and Vegetables and Water OPTION 2 DANIEL FAST Fruits, Vegetables, Water, Breads, Dairy, Pasta/Rice WK 1 and 2: OPTION 1 ***Carbs (whole grains, beans, legumes) during breakfast and lunch help give the body energy for the day. THESE ARE SAMPLE MEALS FOR OPTION 1 SAMPLE OPTION 1 Breakfasts- 1. Oatmeal (whole grain oats, no added sugar) 2. Fruit salad with chia pudding (See Pintrest for various chia pudding recipes) 3. Sugar free granola and almond milk 4. Banana and nut butter smoothie (use sliced or diced frozen bananas) SAMPLE OPTION 1 Lunches- 1. Curried lentils and sweet potatoes or Lentil stew. 2. Roasted pepper and hummus lettuce wraps with brown rice 3. Quinoa salad with tomato, cucumber, corn, cilantro, and lemon juice and oil Vinaigrette. Season with Kosher salt, pepper, and other herbs to taste. 4. Chick pea curry with tomatoes and greens. 5. Guacamole and seed chips (non-fried chips made with seeds, not flour). 6. Whole baked sweet potatoes with almond butter and cinnamon. SAMPLE OPTION 1 Dinners- 1. Avocado, asparagus, cucumber salad with onion and herbs of choice. Season with Kosher salt and pepper or vinaigrette. 2. Vegetable soup 3. Baked Eggplant with, tomato, basil, garlic, marinara sauce. 4. Spaghetti squash with pesto SAMPLE OPTION 1 Snacks- 1. Hummus (homemade or store bought) 2. Seed chips 3. Nuts (raw, unsalted) 4. Rice cakes 5. Apple cookies with nut butters and dried fruits. 6. Trail mix (all natural, no candies or added sweeteners) 7. Assorted berries 8. Frozen grapes 9. Grape tomatoes, celery, and carrots (with hummus). 10. Baked zucchini chips 11. Baked sweet potato chips 30

31 SAMPLE OPTION 1 MEAL PLAN Breakfast Lunch Dinner Snack Oatmeal Curried Lentil/Sweet Veggie soup Nuts, berries Potatoes Chia Pudding Guacamole and seed chips Veggie soup Rice cakes, apple cookies Smoothie Curried Lentil/SP Avocado/Asp salad Nuts, veggies Fruit salad Avocado/Asp salad Eggplant Nuts, berries Oatmeal Baked Sweet potato, nut butter Eggplant bake Chia Pudding Chipotle (bowl with brown rice) Chipotle Smoothie Salad Avocado and black bean tacos with brown rice. Rick cakes, apple cookies Nuts, veggies Berries Breakfast Lunch Dinner Snack Granola with almond Hummus lettuce wraps Avocado and asparagus Nuts, berries milk salad Chia Pudding Chick pea curry Vegetable soup Rice cakes, apple cookies Smoothie Hummus lettuce wraps Vegetable soup Nuts, veggies Fruit salad Quinoa salad Crazy Bowls & Wraps Nuts, berries Granola with Almond milk Quinoa Salad Spaghetti Squash Rick cakes, apple cookies Chia Pudding Chick pea curry Chipotle Nuts, veggies Smoothie Salad Veggie stir fry with brown rice Berries SAMPLE OPTION 1 SHOPPING LIST: Grapeseed oil Almond Milk Chia seeds Almond Butter Nuts and seeds Alkaline water Coconut milk Mrs. Dash seasonings Curry paste Curry Cinnamon Apples Berries Oranges Bananas Figs Dates Avocado Cucumber Sweet potatoes Bell peppers Asparagus Baby carrots Grape tomatoes Celery Spaghetti squash Coconut Basil Lemon Frozen Fruits Onions Greens Pine nuts Sugar free granola Rice cake Chick peas Lentils Black beans Brown rice Quinoa 31

32 Appendix D: Restaurant Guide & Meatless Recipes Sample Option 2 Recipes Discounts Available to LifeChangers During January Fast: 1. China King 10% w LC Card 2. Bread Co 10% w LC Card 3. Fazolis 10% w LC Card 4. Planet Fitness Fairview Heights - $10 a month no contract 5. Club Exhilaration Fitness Swansea - $100 for 12 months of classes (sign up New Year s Day only) Green Goddess Smoothie INGREDIENTS 1 cup ice water 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (optional) 3/4 cup fresh spinach 1 celery stalk, roughly chopped 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced 1/2 green apple, cored, roughly chopped 1/2 green pear, cored, roughly chopped 1/2 cucumber, peeled and chopped 1/2 avocado meat 8-10 ice cubes In a high-speed blender, place all ingredients in the order they are listed. You want to make sure the spinach is weighted down by all the other ingredients to ensure everything gets mixed without chunks of spinach leaves. Blend on high speed for about seconds and enjoy in a tall glass. You can divide into 2 glasses or save half for later. When you're ready to drink the remaining juice (within 24 hours), throw in 6 ice cubes and re-blend. Spicy Cabbage Soup Ingredients: 1 medium onion, quartered and sliced thin 3 medium cloves garlic, chopped 1-2 tsp minced fresh chili pepper 2 tsp ground coriander 1 TBS dry mustard 5 cups + 1 TBS chicken or vegetable broth 2 TBS fresh lemon juice 2 medium-sized red potatoes cut 1/2 in. cubes 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes 3 cups thinly sliced Savoy or green cabbage salt and black pepper to taste Directions: Heat 1 TBS broth in a medium soup pot. Sauté sliced onion over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Stir in garlic and minced chili pepper. Continue to saute for another minute. Stir in dried coriander and mustard. Add broth and the rest of ingredients except the cabbage, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 20 minutes, uncovered, or until potatoes are tender. Add cabbage, and cook for another 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 32

33 Black Bean Chili Ingredients: 1 medium onion, chopped 1 medium bell pepper, diced to 1/4-inch pieces 1 TBS + 1-1/2 cups vegetable broth 6 medium cloves garlic, chopped 4 cups or 2 15 oz cans black beans, drained 1 8 oz can tomato sauce 1 15 oz can diced tomatoes (do not drain) 2 TBS ground cumin 2 TBS red chili powder 2 TBS dried oregano 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen 1/4 cup fresh chopped cilantro Salt and black pepper to taste Directions: Heat 1 TBS broth in a medium size soup pot. Sauté onion and bell pepper in broth over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until translucent. Add garlic, cumin, and red chili powder and continue to sauté for another minute. Add 1-1/2 cups broth and the rest of ingredients, except for the cilantro and corn. Simmer for another 20 minutes uncovered. Add corn and cook for another 2 minutes. Add chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste. Quick Tomato Sauce This is an easy recipe for homemade tomato sauce that you can use as a base for vegetable casseroles, over 100% whole wheat pasta, or over brown rice. 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium yellow onion (chopped) 2 cans diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) (or fresh) Salt to taste 1/4 cup cilantro, finely chopped Saute onions in heated oil over medium heat, cooking until soft. Add tomatoes (including juice) and salt. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 10 minutes. Add cilantro and simmer for 5 or 10 more minutes. Serve over pasta, rice or cooked vegetables. Herb-Roasted Idaho Potato Fries 1-pound small baking potatoes 2 tsp extra-virgin olive oil 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried rosemary 1/4 tsp salt Preheat the oven to 425 F. Coat a heavy baking sheet with cooking spray. Cut each potato in half crosswise. Place the halves cut side down on the cutting board and cut each into 4 wedges. Place the potatoes in a mound on the prepared baking sheet. In a cup, mix the oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour over the potato wedges and toss to mix well. Spread the potatoes out on the sheet. Bake, stirring 2 or 3 times, until tender and lightly browned, about 35 minutes. Serve hot. 33

34 34 Stir Fry Vegetables 1 red onion, sliced 3 stalks celery, thinly sliced ½ cup broccoli, chopped 1 bell pepper, sliced 1 tsp. sea salt 3 carrots, peeled and sliced ½ cup cauliflower, chopped 1 cup zucchini, thinly sliced 1 cup yellow squash, thinly sliced 1 Tbsp. Oriental seasoning Stir-fry all vegetables in 1-2 Tbsp. olive oil until tender. Add salt and seasoning. Serve alone or over brown rice. Creamy Green Dressing ½ med. ripe avocado, peeled and pitted ¾ cup distilled water 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice ¼ cup almonds, soaked overnight and drained ¼ tsp. garlic powder 1 ¼ tsp. onion powder or flakes Sea salt Blend all ingredients until smooth. Pesto Dressing 4 small garlic cloves, peeled 2 2/3 cup tightly packed fresh basil leaves 1/3 cup pine nuts 1/3 cup cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil Sea salt Place all ingredients in food processor except oil and process until chopped fine. With the machine running, slowly add oil through the feed tube. Continue to process until smooth. Italian Dressing ½ cup olive oil ¼ cup fresh lemon juice 1-2 garlic cloves, peeled 1 tsp. whole grain mustard seed (optional) ½ cup distilled water 1 green onion, chopped 1 tsp. honey Dash Cayenne Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Remove from blender and add 2 tsp. Italian seasoning or 1 tsp. oregano and tsp. basil. Mix well. Vegetarian Linguine Ingredients 6 ounces uncooked linguine 2 medium zucchini, thinly sliced 1/2 pound fresh mushrooms, sliced 2 green onions, chopped 1 garlic clove, minced 2 tablespoons butter 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 large tomato, chopped 2 teaspoons minced fresh basil 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 4 ounces provolone cheese, shredded 3 tablespoons shredded Parmesan cheese Cook linguine according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, saute the zucchini, mushrooms, onions and garlic in butter and oil for 3-5 minutes. Add the tomato, basil, salt and pepper;. Cover and simmer for 3 minutes. Drain linguine; add to vegetable mixture. Sprinkle with cheeses and toss to coat. Yield: 6 servings.

35 Garden Vegetable Frittata INGREDIENTS 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for drizzling 5 small red potatoes, thinly sliced 1 bunch green onions, trimmed and sliced 1 cup grape tomatoes, sliced 1 cup baby spinach, torn 1 clove garlic, crushed 8 eggs 1 tablesp chopped basil, plus more for garnish 1-2 cups shredded Asiago cheese Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper DIRECTIONS Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced potatoes to the skillet, saute for about 6 to 8 minutes, until tender but firm. Remove the potatoes from the skillet. Add another tablespoon olive oil, and add the green onions, tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. Saute for an additional 1 to 2 minutes or just until the spinach is wilted. Season the vegetables with salt, and pepper. In a medium bowl, beat together the eggs, basil, cheese, salt, and pepper. Pour into the skillet over the vegetables. Reduce heat to mediumlow and scramble the eggs for 1 minute. Return the potatoes to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes. Drizzle olive oil around the edge of the pan to ensure easy removal. Finish cooking in the oven 10 to 12 minutes, until the eggs have completely set in the center. Garnish with shredded Asiago cheese & fresh basil. Broccoli & Cheese Potato Soup Ingredients 1 large onion, chopped 4 teaspoons cooking oil 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 2 cups broccoli flowerets 2 cups milk 1 14½ ounce can chicken broth 1½ cups red potatoes, cubed ⅛ teaspoon ground red pepper 1 cup shredded, sharp cheddar cheese 1 small tomato, seeded & chopped ⅓ cup sour cream ¼ teaspoon salt Directions In large saucepan cook onion in hot oil until tender. Sprinkle flour over onion & stir to coat. Add the broccoli, milk, chicken broth, potatoes, salt & red pepper. Cook & stir until thickened & bubbly; reduce heat. Simmer; covered for minutes or until vegetables are just tender, stirring occasionally. Add cheddar cheese, tomato, and sour cream; stir until cheese melts. Black Bean & Brown Rice Stuffed Peppers 1 qt 100% Vegetable or Tomato Juice 2 cups cooked black beans 1 cup cooked brown rice 2 med green onions (chopped) ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped) 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil 2 tbsp lime juice 1 clove garlic (finely chopped) 2-3 large bell peppers (cut in half lengthwise and deseeded) Combine all ingredients except juice and bell peppers in bowl and mix well. Place peppers in glass dish and stuff with mixture. Pour juice over peppers and plenty of excess in the dish. Cover and bake in oven on 350 degrees for minutes. 35

36 Classic Minestrone 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for serving 1 medium red onion, chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced 1 large celery stalk, diced 1/4 teaspoon red-pepper flakes 1 teaspoon minced fresh rosemary 1 can whole peeled tomatoes, drained & chopped Coarse salt and ground pepper 1/4 Savoy or green cabbage, cored & thinly sliced 1 large potato, peeled and diced 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained 1/2 pound green beans, trimmed & cut 1 garlic clove, minced (optional) 1/4 cup thinly sliced fresh basil 3/4 cup grated Parmesan, for serving In a large pot, heat oil over medium. Add onion, carrots, celery, red-pepper flakes, rosemary, 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until onion begins to turn golden, 5 to 8 minutes. Add tomatoes; cook until some of the liquid evaporates, 1 minute. Add potato, cabbage, cannellini beans, and 7 cups water; bring to a boil. Stir in green beans. Reduce to a simmer, and cook until all the vegetables are tender, about 20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper; stir in garlic, if using, and basil. Serve sprinkled with Parmesan and, if using, torn basil. Drizzle with more oil, if desired. Sunshine Smoothie 1 frozen ripe banana, previously peeled & sliced 1/4 cup orange juice 2 oranges, peeled and sliced* 1 cup frozen mango chunks* 1/2 cup frozen or fresh pineapple chunks Blend the frozen banana chunks and orange juice together until thick, creamy, and smooth - about 3 minutes. Scrape down the sides of the blender as needed. Add the oranges, mango, and pineapple. Blend until combined. Great Protein Smoothie! 1 cup of Silk cashew unsweetened original milk (Note: Water can be used in place of milk) ½ banana 1 table spoon of Jif Natural peanut butter 1 or 2 scoops of protein powder (Note: Garden of Life is a good choice for unsweetened protein powder) Blend until yummy! Veggie soup 1 28oz. can diced or crushed tomatoes 1 6oz. can tomato paste 1 can of tomato sauce 2 medium onions diced 1 can (drained) each of corn, green beans, potatoes, English peas, carrots. Salt to taste 1 tsp garlic 4-5 bay leaves Add water to cover items cook in slow cooker for 3-4 hrs or on stove top. Could also add mushrooms or other veggies you enjoy. Hot water cornbread White or yellow corn meal Hot water Stir it up very well. Pat out individually like hamburger patties. Brown both sides in skillet with olive oil. 36

37 Breakfast Recipes Easy High-protein Breakfast Stir-fry for the Daniel Fast 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 medium onion, sliced 1/2 green pepper, chopped 1 cup firm tofu, diced in bite-sized pieces Fresh Italian herbs to taste Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add oil and heat for a couple minutes. Add the onions and green peppers and stir fry for 2-3 minutes. Add tofu, garlic salt and Italian herbs. Continue to cook until vegetables are soft. Makes two servings. Granola 4 cups rolled oats 1 cup crushed almonds ½ cup whole grain flour 1 tsp. cinnamon ¼ cup shredded coconut 1 cup sunflower seeds ½ cup wheat germ or other whole grain bran 1 cup honey 1 cup pumpkin seeds Mix all together and spread out on a non-stick cookie sheet. Bake 20 min. in a 250 degree preheated oven. Stir and continue to bake another 20 min., stirring periodically to prevent burning. The granola should be lightly browned. Remove from oven and serve warm or cool thoroughly and store in tightly sealed container or plastic bags. Option: After the granola is cooled, add raisins or other organic, unsulphured dehydrated fruit. Apple Blueberry Oatmeal Cereal 2 sweet apples ¾ cup rolled oats 1 cup blueberries ½ cup almonds 1 cup apple juice Cook the oats as directed on box. Chop or grind the almonds, chop the apples and combine. Add the blueberries. Top with a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon and apple juice. Cantaloupe Tonight Melon Smoothie 1/2 medium-size cantaloupe, seeded and cut from the rind. 1/2 cup orange juice (juiced from fresh oranges) Juice of 2 limes (taste before you add all the juice at once) 1 medium-size, banana, peeled and cut into chunks Fresh mint leaves for garnish (optional) 2 cups of ice cubes - makes it like a frozen ice drink (optional) Mix all in a blender, and serve. Serves 2 You can use this same general recipe to make all kinds of different smoothies. Just make sure you use some kind of juice and the bananas. Add water or more juice if it gets too thick. Frozen fruit works well for this. 37

38 Men Women Wednesdays or Couples 630pm or 10am Singles Young Adults - 630pm at Shiloh Bread Co. Seniors 630pm CONNECT TODAY! changinglives@nlicic.org for more info 38

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40 New Life In Christ Interdenominational Church Bishop Geoffrey V. Dudley, Sr., D.Min., Senior Pastor & Lady Glenda Dudley 689 Scott Troy Road O Fallon, IL chaginglives@nlicic.org Phone: Website: Join Text Group: Text the word LifeChangers to Follow Bishop on Twitter: BishopGVD Follow the Church on Twitter: NewLifenChrist Like us on Facebook: New Life in Christ Donate at nlicic.org/donate YouVersion Bible Live Events: Zip Bishop s Blog: Streaming Live at nlicic.org/live Sundays 8am & 11am & Wednesdays 7:30pm Main Campus 1010am Worship Service at New Life North Edwardsville AMC Theater Children s Ministry Available for all Services 40