6 Invitation to D6

                The issues on Health are so vast and unending that it may seem an impossibility to make sense of it in one single discovery journey. The cost of health is getting beyond the reach of most people and every nation is very stretched to provide health care for the needy. But by God’s grace, for this exploratory journey we will be able to learn about the basic fundamental principles (including some basis) in God’s health plan that is available to all for free revealed in Scripture and then consider some of the better practices that harmonise with God’s guidelines.  (More of the good practises will be added progressively as they come to light.)

                The best health plan must come from the source of life. Unless we diligently seek for our maker who made us in His image and gave us the breath of life we will be living in darkness and be bonded in sin, a terminal illness leading to end of everlasting life in the second death. Total wellness is not only physical as manifested in the body but for peace of mind must ultimately find rest in the soul, the spiritual aspect, to be made whole.

                 Health issues, especially physical illnesses, arise mainly by breaking God’s law of life. Therefore the best policy is prevention by knowing and obeying the word of God. We must realise that we are all terminally sick since the fall in Eden, and that God sent His only Son, Jesus Christ,  He came to be the Son of Man to reveal God, the Father, who is invisible and no mortal can see and not be consumed because of our sinful nature. Jesus will bear all the sins of those who believed in Him. He redeems us by dying on the Cross to defeat death. He is our Master Healer with the remedy to make us whole, body and soul. 

                 Discovery D6 Overview

                1 Health issues, especially physical illnesses, arise mainly by breaking God’s law of life. Therefore the best policy is prevention by knowing and obeying the word of God to believe that total wellness is not only physical as manifested in the body but  include the of  peace of mind finding rest in the soul, the spiritual aspect that comes from  our Maker, the source of life.

 

                2. We are a combination of a spiritual person as well as a physical organism with a brain by which God speaks to us. The brain is the organ and instrument of the mind, and controls the whole body. It is through the mind (the carnal heart- the lower passions)) that the devil tempts us (cause of the illness) and it is through the mind (conscience- spiritual discernment) that God saves us (the diagnosis and the prescribed remedy by the Commandment to love the Lord with all our mind and our heart and the need to take care of it). What we eat and how we treat our body will affect the oxygen in the blood flow, the electrical snapping of our brain and how sharp we are.

 

                3. God’s foreknowledge on the health problems in the family such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, some of it is hereditary, is expressed in scripture (Deu 5:9, 10, 6:4-7). These health problems lie in wrong lifestyles we as children grew up with from our parents who have strayed from God’s word. Therefore most of these bad “lifestyle by influence” can be reversed by following God’s health plan again.

 

                4. By abiding in the God’s law of life we will live longer and more satisfying lives than we may have imagined and of preparation for eternal life with God. It is important to believe in Jesus who is the way, the truth and the life (Jn 14:6). We must first realise that we are terminally sick being poor in spiritual understanding and in dire need of a Saviour (Mat 5:3). The remedy for restoration to our pre-fall pristine is to be born again (Jn 3:3-8),  to practice the eight laws of health, “NEWSTART” acronym for Nutrition, Exercise; Water; Sunlight; Temperance; Air; Rest; and Trust, which we can start pursuing today for free, the gift from God.

 

                5. A person’s health is a function of your lifestyle.  However for those who need help to change their bad habits as manifested in their current health  conditions there is the  “Newstart” healthy living program to teach you how to improve and optimise your health. It is a physician monitored, scientifically researched lifestyle change program based on these eight fundamental principles proven to help you achieve optimum health.

 

                6. God’s word is made plain through His prophets who are His messengers. The inspired writings of Mrs Ellen G. White (1827 -1915) on the subject of food and health are acknowledged by Clive McKay, PhD., Dept. of Nutrition, Cornell Univ. as a better overall guide than all that modern scientific nutrition research can provide. She wrote that the Bible teaches that: In order to know what the best foods are, we must study God's original plan for man's diet. He who created man and who understands his needs appointed Adam his food. “The diet appointed man in the beginning did not include animal food. Not till after the flood, when every green thing on the earth had been destroyed, did man receive permission to eat flesh. Christ allowed them to eat the flesh of the clean beasts that had been preserved in the ark. However the main consequence in eating meat has resulted in the shortening of life span as evident by tracing the declining length of life from + 900 years to around +70 years since King David (and present secular life span).  Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing.

 

                7. The disease and suffering that prevail everywhere are largely due to popular errors in regard to diet. If meat is discarded, if the taste is not educated in that direction, if a liking for fruits and grains is encouraged, it will soon be as God in the beginning designed it should be. No meat will be used, by His people. People shun water for the more tasty adulterated versions in Soda pop, Cola, coffee, tea- all containing sugar and caffeine. Caffeine is the most addictive drug.  It enfeebles the body system, making it more susceptible to disease. The use of tobacco encourages the appetite for liquor; and the use of tobacco and liquor invariably lessens nerve power. By the use of alcoholic drinks and narcotics and the flesh of diseased animals, man has distorted and crippled the Lord's divine arrangements. What we eat and drink has an important bearing upon our lives and characters, and Christians should bring their habits of eating and drinking into conformity to the laws of nature. We must sense our obligations to God in these matters. Obedience to the laws of health should be made a matter of earnest study, for willing ignorance on this subject is sin. Each one should feel a personal obligation to carry out the laws of healthful living. 

 

                8. Food for the soul is the spiritual food that is spiritually discerned. It is the eating of Jesus’s flesh and drinking of His blood (Jn 6:47-60). It is metaphorically eating (studying) the word of God and assimilate it to nourish the whole body. Drinking His blood is allowing the new blood to purify and to transform our character into His divine character. The spiritual as well as the mental and physical powers suffer under the influence of unhealthful food. The conscience becomes stupefied, and the susceptibility to good impressions is impaired. {CG 379.4} (It is by eating plant based diet that) a religious life can be more successfully attained and maintained if meat is discarded; for this diet stimulates into intense activity the lustful propensities, and enfeebles the moral and spiritual nature.

 

                9. Among those (the last God’s remnant generation) who are waiting for the second coming of the Lord (very soon and quickly when it happens, for the time is at hand), meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part of their diet. We should ever keep this end in view and endeavour to work steadily toward it. It is unthinkable that in the practice of flesh eating we are in harmony with the light which God has been pleased to give us.  {CG 383.2} 

 

                (CONTENTS: 6.1 God’ Health Plan- 6.1.1 The Best Health Plan- 6.1.1.1 Main Effects of Eating Meat; 6.1.1.2 Bad Food intake and Lifestyle (6.1.1.2.1 Tea and Coffee; 6.1.1.2.2 Tobacco; 6.1.1.2.3 Alcohol); 6.1.2 God’s Remedy;  6.1.3 Food for the Soul- 6.1.3.1 The Free Gift of Life (6.1.3.1.1 The First Test of Obedience; 6.1.3.1.2 Christ Overcome Satan’s Temptations- 6.1.3.1.2.1 The Lesson in Overcoming Temptation; 6.1.3.2 The Diet in Awaiting Christ's Coming ( 6.1.3.2.1 The Assurance of Final Victory);  6.2 Basic Healthy Living- 6.2.1 The Eight Laws of Health; 6.2.2 The NEWSTART Program; 6.2.3 Health Resources Availability.)

                6.1 God’ Health Plan

                Watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5TbN1EqAJ0 (24:30) “God's Health Plan” by Doug Batchelor (Amazing Facts), uploaded on Mar 10, 2011. Pastor Batchelor, speaking from the word of God explains God's health plan with respect to food for good health, “pulse to eat and water to drink” (Dan 1:12) (from the Book of Daniel, a book with prophetic messages). Even just ten days of eating this very simple diet test, Daniel and his three friends “countenances appeared fairer and fatter in flesh than all the children which eat the portion of the king’s meat (food mooted by the devil)”(Dan 1:15).  In addition King Nebuchadnezzar “found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in his entire realm.”(Dan 1:20) for “God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams (the prophecy on the history of the world in Dan 2:31-45.”(Dan 1:17) Sin is in the world since the day Eve and then Adam ate what God told them not to eat. But the vast majority of Christians think that if you are spiritual it does not matter what you do with your body.  That is a lie of the devil (Rev 2:6, 15 calls it the doctrine of the Nicholaitanes). They are taught the Spirit and the body are not connected and so you just serve and love God with your Spirit. It does not matter what you do with your body. It does not matter what you eat, But what you sow you are going to reap and God is mocked. (Sadly, not many pastors are teaching this truth.) The choices we make regarding health and our spiritual perceptions do make a difference. Why else do you think the devil is working so hard to get the young people of this generation foggy with drugs and alcohol so that they cannot appreciate spiritual truth? Missionary doctors, like David Livingstone, heal the sick bodies first and then try to heal their souls. So the Church cannot work on people’s souls when our bodies are sick because of bad lifestyle and practices.

                6.1.1 The Best Health Plan          

                Jesus says, “I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (Jn 10:10) – God wants us to have abundant life. We are a combination of a spiritual person as well as a physical organism. Our body is operated by a 1.2 kg computer called a brain by which the Lord speaks to us. God wants our brain to be clear because it tell the parts of the body like our hands what to do. It is through the mind that the devil tempts us (cause of the illness) and it is through the mind that God saves us (the diagnosis and the prescribed remedy), (by the Commandment to love the Lord with all our mind and the need to take care of it). What we eat and how we treat our body will affect the oxygen in the blood flow, the electrical snapping of our brain and how sharp we are.

                6.1.1.1 Main Effects of Eating Meat

                The Bible does not say we cannot eat meat. God made a provision after the great flood to allow Noah and his family  to eat the clean meat without the blood as specified in Lev 11: 1-47; Deu 14:3-21.(See clip from 9:30-15:20 & SEE power-pointbible study SFC15. Lifestyle – Unhealthy Living; (to open click https://dl.dropbox.com/u/28520380/SFC%20Bible%20Study/SFC15.ppt))(Before this time God had given man no permission to eat animal food; He intended that the race should subsist wholly upon the productions of the earth; but now that every green thing had been destroyed, He allowed them to eat the flesh of the clean beasts that had been preserved in the ark {PP 107.3}) The main consequence in eating meat has resulted in the shortening of life span as evident by tracing the declining length of life: from Adam to Noah-+900years; Shem, (son of Noah, 11^th Gen)- 600 yrs; Abraham (21^th Generation, 1996-1821 B.C.)- 175 yrs; Jacob (23^th Gen)-147 yrs; Moses (25^th Gen, 1571-1441 B.C.)-120 yrs; and King David (34^th Gen, 990-920 B.C.)- 70 yrs. Jesus is the 76^th Gen.

                The inspired writings of E.G. White* wrote more than a century ago:  (*Note-The Complete Published Writings of Mrs. White are now available online in several languages- go to http://www.whiteestate.org/search/search.asp , follow the instruction and search for the abbreviated book title e.g. HL, TSDF, CG, CD, CC, DA, Te, CS, COL, Ed, MH, 1SM)

                “One of the great errors that many insist upon is that muscular strength is dependent upon animal food. But the simple grains, fruits of the trees, and vegetables have all the nutritive properties necessary to make good blood. This a flesh diet cannot do. -- U. T., Nov. 5, 1896.  {HL 98.3} 

                Speaking in support of this diet, they said that without it they were weak in physical strength. But the words of our Teacher to us were, "As a man thinketh, so is he." (Pro 23:7). The flesh of dead animals was not the original food for man. Man was permitted to eat it after the flood, because all vegetation had been destroyed. . . . Since the flood the human race has been shortening the period of its existence. Physical, mental, and moral degeneracy is rapidly increasing in these last days. -- U. T., Jan. 11, 1897.  {HL 98.4} 

                The eating of flesh meats has made a poor quality of blood and flesh. Your systems are in a state of inflammation, prepared to take on disease. You are liable to acute attacks of disease, and to sudden death, because you do not possess the strength of constitution to rally and resist disease. The physical powers are depreciated by the habitual use of flesh meat. Meat eating deranges the system… Their blood was being corrupted by this improper diet. The flesh which they ate was diseased, and their entire system was becoming gross and corrupted {HL 99.2- 99.5}. Because those who partake of animal food do not immediately feel its effects, is no evidence that it does not injure them. It may be doing its work surely upon the system, and yet the persons for the time being realize nothing of it. The liability to take disease is increased tenfold by meat eating. The practise of eating largely of meat is causing diseases of all kinds,--cancers, tumours, scrofula, tuberculosis, and other like affections. {HL 100.2-100.4} From the light which God has given me (E.G. White), the prevalence of cancers and tumours is largely due to gross living on dead flesh.”--U. T., Nov. 5, 1896.  {HL 100.7}

                Furthermore, “A meat diet changes the disposition, and strengthens animalism  . . . . To educate your children to subsist on a meat diet would be harmful to them (as their intellectual and moral powers are decreased. Its use excites the animal propensities to increased activity, and strengthens the animal passions. When the animal propensities are increased, the intellectual and moral powers are decreased. The use of the flesh of animals . . . benumbs the fine sensibilities of the mind. .. Such a diet contaminates the blood and stimulates the lower passions. It prevents vigour of thought and enfeebles the perceptions, so that God and the truth are not understood” {HL -101.4-102.2}. 

                6.1.1.2 Bad Food intake and Lifestyle

                Many have misinterpreted and apply the Bible texts “For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving:”- 1Ti 4:4, in forming the wrong belief that we can ask God in prayer to bless any food we eat.

                Fat in meat is one of the main reasons why eating meat is bad for health. The heavy cost of Fat was the cover title to the National Geographic, August 2004 issue in acknowledging what God says is true.  The whole issue dealt with health issues from consuming fat. One of the symptom and quoting: “For all the Americans who’ve blamed bulging bellies on a slow metabolism, the jig is up. A report earlier this year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention finally confirms what many of us didn’t want to admit: We’re fat because we eat a lot- a whole lot more than we used to- and most of the increase comes from carbohydrates. Adult women are now eating 335 more calories per day than they did in 1971, while adult men have upped their daily intake by 168 calories.” This is the result of the fast food in the sedentary life we now “enjoy,” which is passed on to our children.

                People shun water for the more tasty adulterated versions in Soda pop, Cola, coffee, tea- all containing sugar and caffeine. Caffeine is the most addictive drug. They are constantly going through mood swings by drinking copious amounts of this addictive drug in the drinks. The law of health says we much take about one-and-a-half to two litres of plain water per day.

                6.1.1.2.1 Tea and Coffee

                Tea has an influence to excite the nerves, and coffee benumbs the brain; both are highly injurious.  Tea, coffee, and flesh meats produce an immediate effect. Under the influence of these poisons the nervous system is excited, and in some cases, for the time being, the intellect seems to be invigorated, and the imagination to be more vivid. To a certain extent, tea produces intoxication. It enters into the circulation, and gradually impairs the energy of body and mind. It stimulates, excites, and quickens the motion of the living machinery, forcing it to unnatural action, and thus gives the tea drinker the impression that it is doing him great service, imparting to him strength. This is a mistake. Tea draws upon the strength of the nerves, and leaves them greatly weakened. When its influence is gone and the increased action caused by its use is abated, then what is the result?--Languor and debility corresponding to the artificial vivacity the tea imparted. When the system is already overtaxed and needs rest, the use of tea spurs up nature by stimulation to perform unwonted, unnatural action, and thereby lessens her power to perform, and her ability to endure; and her powers give out long before Heaven designed they should. Tea is poisonous to the system. Christians should let it alone. . . . The second effect of tea drinking is headache, wakefulness, palpitation of the heart, indigestion, trembling of the nerves, and many other evils.  {HL 107.2-107.4} 

                The influence of coffee is in a degree the same as tea, but the effect upon the system is still worse. Its influence is exciting, and just in the degree that it elevates above par, it will exhaust and bring prostration below par. Tea and coffee drinkers carry the marks upon their faces. The skin becomes sallow, and assumes a lifeless appearance. The glow of health is not seen upon the countenance.  {HL 108.1} 

                Tea and coffee do not nourish the system. The relief obtained from them is sudden, before the stomach has had time to digest them. This shows that what the users of these stimulants call strength is only received by exciting the nerves of the stomach, which convey the irritation to the brain, and this in turn is aroused to impart increased action to the heart, and short-lived energy to the entire system. All this is false strength, that we are the worse for having. They do not give a particle of natural strength {HL 108.2}. 

                The stimulating diet and drink of this day are not conducive to the best state of health. Tea, coffee, and tobacco are all stimulating, and contain poisons. They are not only unnecessary, but harmful, and should be discarded if we would add to knowledge temperance.--R. and H., 1888, No. 8.  {HL 108.3}   

                6.1.1.2.2 Tobacco

                The use of tobacco encourages the appetite for liquor; and the use of tobacco and liquor invariably lessens nerve power. By the use of alcoholic drinks and narcotics and the flesh of diseased animals, man has distorted and crippled the Lord's divine arrangements. Nature does her best to expel the poisonous drug tobacco, but frequently she is overborne, gives up her struggle, and life is sacrificed in the conflict. {HL 109.3-109.4} 

                Tobacco, in whatever form it is used, tells upon the constitution. It is a slow poison. It affects the brain and benumbs the sensibilities so that the mind cannot discern spiritual things, especially those truths which would have a tendency to correct this filthy indulgence. Those who use tobacco in any form are not clear before God. In such a filthy practise it is impossible for them to glorify God in their bodies and spirits, which are His. And while they are using slow and sure poisons, which are ruining their health and debasing the faculties of the mind, God cannot approbate them. He may be merciful to them while they indulge in this pernicious habit in ignorance of the injury it is doing them; but when the matter is set before them in its true light, then they are guilty before God if they continue to indulge this gross appetite.--F. of F., p. 126.  {HL 109.5}  Tobacco is a poison of the most deceitful and malignant kind, having an exciting, then a paralyzing, influence upon the nerves of the body. It is all the more dangerous because its effects upon the system are so slow, and at first scarcely perceivable.--F. of F., p. 128.  {HL 110.1}  Tobacco is a slow, insidious poison, and its effects are more difficult to cleanse from the system than those of liquor.--T., V. III, p. 569.  {HL 110.2}  Tobacco using is a habit which frequently affects the nervous system in a more powerful manner than does the use of alcohol. It binds the victim in stronger bands of slavery than does the intoxicating cup; the habit is more difficult to overcome. Body and mind are, in many cases, more thoroughly intoxicated with the use of tobacco than with spirituous liquors; for it is a more subtle poison.--T., V. III, p. 562.  {HL 110.3} 

                 It is unpleasant, if not dangerous, to remain in a railroad car or in a crowded room that is not thoroughly ventilated, where the atmosphere is impregnated with the properties of liquor and tobacco. The occupants give evidence by the breath and emanations from the body that the system is filled with the poison of liquor and tobacco.--T., V. III, p. 562. {HL 110.4} Many infants are poisoned beyond remedy by sleeping in beds with their tobacco-using fathers…Every exhalation of the lungs of the tobacco slave poisons the air about him.--H. R. {HL 111.1} 

                Tobacco and liquor stupefy and defile the user. But the evil does not stop here. He transmits irritable tempers, polluted blood, enfeebled intellects, and weak morals to his children, and renders himself accountable for all the evil results that his wrong and dissipated course of life brings upon his family and the community. {HL 111.2} 

                6.1.1.2.3 Alcohol

                The tables of our American people are generally prepared in a manner to make drunkards. . . . By the use of tea and coffee an appetite is formed for tobacco, and this encourages the appetite for liquors. . . . Youth in general are governed by impulse and are slaves to appetite. In the glutton, the tobacco devotee, the wine-bibber, and the inebriate, we see the evil results of defective education. {HL 111.3} 

                The Bible nowhere teaches the use of intoxicating wine, either as a beverage or as a symbol of the blood of Christ. We appeal to the natural reason whether the blood of Christ is better represented by the pure juice of the grape in its natural state, or after it has been converted into a fermented and intoxicating wine. . . . We urge that the latter should never be placed upon the Lord's table. . . . We protest that Christ never made intoxicating wine; such an act would have been contrary to all the teachings and examples of his life. . . . The wine which Christ manufactured from water by a miracle of his power was the pure juice of the grape. -- H. R.  {HL 113.1} 

                The use of tobacco and liquor invariably lessens nerve power. A tendency to disease of various kinds, as dropsy, liver complaint, trembling nerves, and the determination of the blood to the head, results from the habitual use of sour cider (fermented into alcohol). By its use many bring upon themselves permanent disease. Some die of consumption or fall under the power of apoplexy from this cause alone. Some suffer from dyspepsia. Every vital function refuses to act. - R. and H., 1884, No. 13.  {HL 113.3}  The law authorizes the sale of liquor, and then has to build prisons for the victims; for nine tenths of those who are taken to prison are those who have learned to drink.--R. and H., 1894, No. 19. How many frightful accidents occur through the influence of drink. . . . What is the portion of this terrible intoxicant that any man can take, and be safe with the lives of human beings? {HL 114.2-114.3} 

                6.1.2 God’s Remedy

                “.. for I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me, “And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me and keep my commandments.” - Deu 5:9, 10. These two verses speak of God’s foreknowledge on the health problems in the family, diabetes, heart disease, some of it is hereditary. But more times than not the kids have “inherited by nurture” is the lifestyle they grew up with from their parents. Therefore most of this bad lifestyle by influence can be reversed by following God’s health plan. Ps. Batchelor, in his fifties, who became a vegetarian (eating God’s original diet) demonstrated a backhand spring to promote the benefits of following God’s health message.

                Apostle Paul beseeches us by the mercies of God, “that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”- Rom 12:1.  God has purchased every one of us by redemption. He also owns us by creation and He is pleading like every parent for their children to have an abundant and prosperous life. All of us have problems and different people have different struggles. It is not that by eating right we will never get sick. But it will be so much better like the people living in the Hunza Valley, Pakistan (heaven on earth, and inhabitants reported as living a long and happy life). We could do so much more for God to have a longer life. The bottom line is this: The believers in Christ love God supremely. Having received this love by being “not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”- Rom 12:2, we will be able to give the love we experience to our neighbours and thus complete the cycle of life.  We cannot serve God well when the body is sick. We cannot serve our neighbours when we are sick. There are a lot of sicknesses among God’s people that we don’t need. If we follow what he says in His word we can experience much better health, longer life, more effective life. Our minds will be clear and this is what God wants all his children He created, to be moulded into His character to live with Him forever and ever. 

                6.1.3 Food for the Soul 

                Life in the Greek language (New Testament language) is either “Zoe” or “Bios”. “Zoe” refers to the principle of life in the spirit and the soul. It is distinguished from “Bios” meaning physical life and livelihood of all animated creatures. “Zoe” Expresses all the nobler aspects, all of the highest and   best which Christ, as the Son of Man, set as example for us, whom He gives to His true followers. It is the highest blessedness of the creature.

                Food for the soul is the spiritual food that is spiritually discerned. It is the eating of Jesus’s flesh and drinking of His blood (Jn 6:47-60). It is metaphorically eating (studying) the word of God and assimilate it to nourish the whole body. Drinking His blood is allowing the new blood to purify and to transform our character into His divine character.

                As spiritual things are spiritually discerned we must first recognise our spiritual poverty and believe in God and His word. We are not to be carnally minded and to gradually acquire a clear mind by caring for our body and by eating God’s original diet and God’s words.

                The spiritual as well as the mental and physical powers suffer under the influence of unhealthful food. The conscience becomes stupefied, and the susceptibility to good impressions is impaired. {CG 379.4} (It is by eating plant based diet that) a religious life can be more successfully attained and maintained if meat is discarded; for this diet stimulates into intense activity the lustful propensities, and enfeebles the moral and spiritual nature.--U. T., Nov. 5, 1896.  {HL 102.4}) 

                It is so crucially important to bring this knowledge to your awareness simply, without going into too much detail at this stage, so as to prepare you in beginning your spiritual journey. If ever there was a time when the diet should be of the simplest kind, it is now with the present uncertainty and unrest in the world (prophesied signs of Jesus’ Second Coming).                 

                In order to know what the best foods are, we must study God's original plan for man's diet. He who created man and who understands his needs appointed Adam his food. "Behold," He said, "I have given you every herb yielding seed, . . . and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for food." Upon leaving Eden to gain his livelihood by tilling the earth under the curse of sin, man received permission to eat also "the herb of the field."  {TSDF 125.2} 

                Grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables constitute the diet chosen for us by our Creator. These foods, prepared in as simple and natural a manner as possible, are the most healthful and nourishing. They impart a strength, a power of endurance, and a vigour of intellect, that are not afforded by a more complex and stimulating diet (like the choice made by Daniel and his three friends in shunning the king’s meat).  {TSDF 125.3}   

                The diet appointed man in the beginning did not include animal food. Not till after the flood, when every green thing on the earth had been destroyed, did man receive permission to eat flesh.  {TSDF 125.4} 

                In choosing man's food in Eden, the Lord showed what the best diet was; in the choice made for Israel He taught the same lesson. He brought the Israelites out of Egypt, and undertook their training, that they might be a people for His own possession. Through them He desired to bless and teach the world. He provided them with the food best adapted for this purpose, not flesh, but manna, "the bread of heaven." It was only because of their discontent and their murmuring for the flesh-pots of Egypt that animal food was granted them, and this only for a short time. Its use brought disease and death to thousands.  {TSDF 125.5} 

                Through wrong habits of eating, the appetite has become perverted. Often it demands food that impairs health and causes weakness instead of strength. . . . The disease and suffering that everywhere prevail are largely due to popular errors in regard to diet. If meat is discarded, if the taste is not educated in that direction, if a liking for fruits and grains is encouraged, it will soon be as God in the beginning designed it should be. No meat will be used, by His people.  {TSDF 125.11}

                God wants men to cultivate force of character. Those who are merely timeservers are not the ones who will receive a rich reward by and by. He wants those who labour in His cause to be men of keen feeling and quick perception. They should be temperate in eating; rich and luxurious food should find no place upon their tables; and when the brain is constantly taxed, and there is a lack of physical exercise, they should eat sparingly, even of plain food. Daniel's clearness of mind and firmness of purpose, his strength of intellect in acquiring knowledge, were due in a great degree to the plainness of his diet, in connection with his life of prayer. {CD 82.4}

                My dear friends, instead of taking a course to baffle disease, you are petting it and yielding to its power. You should avoid the use of drugs, and carefully observe the laws of health. If you regard your life, you should eat plain food, prepared in the simplest manner, and take more physical exercise. Each member of the family needs the benefits of health reform. But drugging should be forever abandoned; for while it does not cure any malady, it enfeebles the system, making it more susceptible to disease.  {CD 82.5}  

                What we eat and drink has an important bearing upon our lives and characters, and Christians should bring their habits of eating and drinking into conformity to the laws of nature. We must sense our obligations to God in these matters. Obedience to the laws of health should be made a matter of earnest study, for willing ignorance on this subject is sin. Each one should feel a personal obligation to carry out the laws of healthful living.  {CG 392.4}

                You need to carry out the health reform in your life; to deny yourself and eat and drink to the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31). Abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul. You need to practice temperance in all things. Here is a cross which you have shunned. To confine yourself to a simple diet, which will preserve you in the best of condition of health, is a task to you. Had you lived up to the light which heaven has permitted to shine upon your pathway, much suffering might have been saved your family. Your own course of action has brought the sure result. While you continue in this course, God will not come into your family, and especially bless you, and work a miracle to save your family from suffering. A plain diet, free from spices, and flesh meats, and grease of all kinds, would prove a blessing to you, and would save your wife a great amount of suffering, grief, and despondence. . . .  {CD 83.1}  (This is the meaning of taking up the cross and follow Christ in order to  save our soul for “what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”- Mat 16:24-26.) 

                6.1.3.1 The Free Gift of Life

                God has given us the breath of life. No great effort is necessary in breathing on our part and we do it unconsciously although it is so vital for life that if we stop breathing longer than four minutes we are dead. Another requirement to stay alive is the need to eat daily to nourish and grow our physical body which requires deciding on choices, work (with daily and weekly rest)  and effort to obtain and prepare the food. The very daily operation in the act of eating will determine whether we are able to vindicate God’s law and love to live in His kingdom rather than that of Satan who has usurped this world from Adam.

                6.1.3.1.1 The First Test of Obedience

                Thus the first simple test of obedience is over eating of the fruit from the only tree which said not to eat in order not to die. The very fact that our first parents failed this test that led to our fallen nature and how God  through Christ need to come to earth in the form of man to show us how we may be restored to His divine nature in order to live with Him for ever and ever in His kingdom.   The importance of this test needs to be understood clearly based on the inspired writing of E.G. White:

                “Our first parents, though created innocent and holy, were not placed beyond the possibility of wrongdoing. . . . They were to enjoy communion with God and with holy angels; but before they could be rendered eternally secure, their loyalty must be tested. At the very beginning of man's existence a check was placed upon the desire for self-indulgence, the fatal passion that lay at the foundation of Satan's fall. The tree of knowledge, which stood near the tree of life in the midst of the garden, was to be a test of the obedience, faith, and love of our first parents. While permitted to eat freely of every other tree, they were forbidden to taste of this, on pain of death. They were also to be exposed to the temptations of Satan; but if they endured the trial, they would finally be placed beyond his power, to enjoy perpetual favour with God. . . .  {CC 13.2} 

                God might have created man without the power to transgress His law; He might have withheld the hand of Adam from touching the forbidden fruit; but in that case man would have been, not a free moral agent, but a mere automation. Without freedom of choice, his obedience would not have been voluntary, but forced. There could have been no development of character. . . . It would have been unworthy of man as an intelligent being, and would have sustained Satan's charge of God's arbitrary rule.  {CC 13.3} 

                God made man upright; He gave him noble traits of character, with no bias toward evil. He endowed him with high intellectual powers, and presented before him the strongest possible inducements to be true to his allegiance. Obedience, perfect and perpetual, was the condition of eternal happiness. On this condition he was to have access to the tree of life. . . .  {CC 13.4} 

                 So long as they remained loyal to the divine law, their capacity to know, to enjoy, and to love would continually increase. They would be constantly gaining new treasures of knowledge, discovering fresh springs of happiness, and obtaining clearer and yet clearer conceptions of the immeasurable, unfailing love of God.”  {CC 13.5}

                6.1.3.1.2 Christ Overcome Satan’s Temptations  

                Christ, as the second Adam overcame what Adam failed when He was tested on the three leading temptation immediately after His baptism and entered into the wilderness with the Spirit of God upon Him, to be tempted of the devil. The enemy was to tempt the Son of God. Christ was tempted with the three leading temptations wherewith man is beset.  {Te 285.1} (Satan saw that he must either conquer or be conquered. The issues of the conflict involved too much to be entrusted to his confederate angels. He must personally conduct the warfare. All the energies of apostasy were rallied against the Son of God. Christ was made the mark of every weapon of hell.  {DA 116.3} )

                With Christ, as with the holy pair in Eden, appetite was the ground of the first great temptation. Just where the ruin began, the work of our redemption must begin. As by the indulgence of appetite Adam fell, so by the denial of appetite Christ must overcome. "And when He had fasted forty days and forty nights, He was afterward an hungred. And when the tempter came to Him, he said, If Thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread. But He answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God."  {DA 117.3} 

                From the time of Adam to that of Christ, self-indulgence had increased the power of the appetites and passions, until they had almost unlimited control. Thus men had become debased and diseased, and of themselves it was impossible for them to overcome. In man's behalf, Christ conquered by enduring the severest test. For our sake He exercised a self-control stronger than hunger or death. And in this first victory were involved other issues that enter into all our conflicts with the powers of darkness.  {DA 117.4} 

                Satan left the field as a conquered foe (after failing to tempt Jesus). Our Saviour passed over the ground and was victor. He was fainting on the field of battle. There was no bosom to cradle His head, and no hand to pass over His brow. Angels came and ministered unto Him. Just such help we may claim. Christ saw it was impossible for man to overcome in his own behalf. He came to bring moral power to man. This is our only hope.  {Te 286.2}

                We see the importance of overcoming appetite. Christ overcame, and we may obtain the victory as Christ did. He passed over the ground, and there is victory for man. What has He done for the human family? He has elevated man in the scale of moral value. We may become conquerors through our Sufficiency. There is hope for the most hopeless, in Christ. "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? Then may ye also do good, that are accustomed to do evil." "Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." There we have the rich promises of God. What did Christ come here for? To represent the Father. What a heart of love and sympathy! He came to bring eternal life, to break every band. When God gave His Son, He gave all heaven. He could give no more.  {Te 286.3}

                6.1.3.1.2.1 The Lesson in Overcoming Temptation

                Many look on this conflict between Christ and Satan as having no special bearing on their own life; and for them it has little interest. But within the domain of every human heart this controversy is repeated. Never does one leave the ranks of evil for the service of God without encountering the assaults of Satan. The enticements which Christ resisted were those that we find it so difficult to withstand. They were urged upon Him in as much greater degree as His character is superior to ours. With the terrible weight of the sins of the world upon Him, Christ withstood the test upon appetite (first temptation), upon the love of the world (third temptation), and upon that love of display (second temptation) which leads to presumption. These were the temptations that overcame Adam and Eve, and that so readily overcome us.  {DA 116.4} 

                Satan had pointed to Adam's sin as proof that God's law was unjust, and could not be obeyed. In our humanity, Christ was to redeem Adam's failure. But when Adam was assailed by the tempter, none of the effects of sin were upon him. He stood in the strength of perfect manhood, possessing the full vigour of mind and body. He was surrounded with the glories of Eden, and was in daily communion with heavenly beings. It was not thus with Jesus when He entered the wilderness to cope with Satan. For four thousand years the race had been decreasing in physical strength, in mental power, and in moral worth; and Christ took upon Him the infirmities of degenerate humanity. Only thus could He rescue man from the lowest depths of his degradation.  {DA 117.1} 

                Many claim that it was impossible for Christ to be overcome by temptation. Then He could not have been placed in Adam's position; He could not have gained the victory that Adam failed to gain. If we have in any sense a more trying conflict than had Christ, then He would not be able to succour us. But our Saviour took humanity, with all its liabilities. He took the nature of man, with the possibility of yielding to temptation. We have nothing to bear which He has not endured.  {DA 117.2} 

                 Jesus met Satan with the words of Scripture. "It is written," He said. In every temptation the weapon of His warfare was the word of God. Satan demanded of Christ a miracle as a sign of His divinity. But that which is greater than all miracles, a firm reliance upon a "Thus saith the Lord," was a sign that could not be controverted. So long as Christ held to this position, the tempter could gain no advantage.  {DA 120.1} 

                It was in the time of greatest weakness that Christ was assailed by the fiercest temptations. Thus Satan thought to prevail. By this policy he had gained the victory over men. When strength failed, and the will power weakened, and faith ceased to repose in God, then those who had stood long and valiantly for the right were overcome. Moses was wearied with the forty years' wandering of Israel, when for the moment his faith let go its hold upon infinite power.

                Herein is set forth a principle that is seen in all God's dealings with men. The Lord placed our first parents in the Garden of Eden. He surrounded them with everything that could minister to their happiness, and He bade them acknowledge Him as the possessor of all things. In the garden He caused to grow every tree that was pleasant to the eye or good for food; but among them He made one reserve. Of all else, Adam and Eve might freely eat; but of this one tree God said, "Thou shalt not eat of it." Here was the test of their gratitude and loyalty to God.  {CS 65.3} 

                 So the Lord has imparted to us heaven's richest treasure in giving us Jesus. With Him He has given us all things richly to enjoy. The productions of the earth, the bountiful harvests, the treasures of gold and silver, are His gifts. Houses and lands, food and clothing, He has placed in the possession of men. He asks us to acknowledge Him as the Giver of all things; and for this reason He says, Of all your possessions I reserve a tenth for Myself, besides gifts and offerings, which are to be brought into My storehouse. This is the provision God has made for carrying forward the work of the gospel {CS 65.4} 

                It was by the Lord Jesus Christ Himself, who gave His life for the life of the world, that this plan for systematic giving was devised. He who left the royal courts, who laid aside His honour as Commander of the heavenly hosts, who clothed His divinity with humanity in order to uplift the fallen race; He who for our sake became poor that we through His poverty might be rich, has spoken to men, and in His wisdom has told them His own plan for sustaining those who bear His message to the world.--R. & H., Feb. 4, 1902.  {CS 66.1}

                6.1.3.2 The Diet in Awaiting Christ's Coming

                Among those who are waiting for the second coming of the Lord (very soon and quickly when it happens, for the time is at hand), meat eating will eventually be done away; flesh will cease to form a part of their diet. We should ever keep this end in view and endeavour to work steadily toward it. I cannot think that in the practice of flesh eating we are in harmony with the light which God has been pleased to give us.  {CG 383.2} 

                Again and again I have been shown that God is bringing His people back to His original design, that is, not to subsist on the flesh of dead animals. He would have us teach people a better way. . . . If meat is discarded, if the taste is not educated in that direction, if a liking for fruits and grains is encouraged, it will soon be as God in the beginning designed it should be. No meat will be used by His people.  {CG 383.3} 

                When the use of flesh food is discontinued, there is often a sense of weakness, a lack of vigour. Many urge this as evidence that flesh food is essential; but it is because foods of this class are stimulating, because they fever the blood and excite the nerves, that they are so missed. Some will find it as difficult to leave off flesh eating as it is for the drunkard to give up his dram, but they will be the better for the change.  {CG 384.2} 

                 When flesh food is discarded, its place should be supplied with a variety of grains, nuts, vegetables, and fruits, that will be both nourishing and appetizing. This is especially necessary in the case of those who are weak, or who are taxed with continuous labour.  {CG 384.3}

                 6.1.3.2.1 The Assurance of Final Victory

                The great controversy started by Satan against Christ in heaven will end on Earth with the joyous celebration of the marriage supper of the Lamb, of the delayed victory that was won at the Cross of Calvary.  The diligent student of the Bible should gain a knowledge of its grand central theme, of God's original purpose for the world, of the rise of the great controversy, and of the work of redemption. He should understand the nature of the two principles that are contending for supremacy and should learn to trace their working through the records of history and prophecy, to the great consummation. He should see how this controversy enters into every phase of human experience; how in every act of life he himself reveals the one or the other of the two antagonistic motives; and how, whether he will or not, he is even now deciding upon which side of the controversy he will be found.--Ed 190 (1903).

                In the great controversy, Satan with his miracle-working power is to deceive the world of the ungodly. But Christ, the atoning sacrifice, will be a refuge to every soul that trusts in Him. Satan will take possession of every mind given to his control, and will work through every agency that he can secure, to further his plans. And the greater the necessity of shedding light into the darkness of the world, the greater and more varied will be Satan's efforts to intercept the light. In the cleft of the Rock we may hide, secure from all the power and arts of the wicked one. The Lord has revealed the perils that are around and before us. Through the agency of the Spirit of prophecy, He has unveiled the delusions that will take the world captive, and has spoken to His people, saying, "This is the way; walk ye in it." Volume four of "The Great Controversy"(Chap 29-34) unmasks the deceptions of Satan; and we may expect that the enemy of all righteousness will put forth every effort in his power to keep away from the people that which unveils his arts. 

                                In the Last Supper (Mat 26:26-30; Mk 14:22-26; Luk 22:15-20; 1 Cor 11:23-25) Jesus says, “I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in my Father's kingdom.”(Mat 26:29) He also promised “In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”- Joh 14:2, 3. (These words are our assurance and confidence of our faith in Christ, the hope of glory.) (Biblical study of verses (using the Concordance) with words associated with eating, (such as food, meat, drink, mouth, dine, dinner, supper, bread, feast,feed, word, wine, water) is very spiritually enlightening.)

                In the gospel of John the theme on activities of eating begins with the first of the eight miracles he recorded (Jn 2:1-11). Jesus made wine from water at the request of His mother (Jn 2:3-10).  The last miracle recorded in chapter 21: 1-14, was the disciples netting 153 fishes by casting the net according to the advice from the risen Saviour (They had caught nothing during the night -Jn21:3). When they have brought in the fishes, Jesus bade the seven disciples come and dine and He served them (Jn 21:12-13), a prelude to the wedding supper of the Lamb. (A more detailed article is posted at www.wakeupow.com/159912040 - FoC6 Passion Week Diary, Pt5 : The Risen, Crucified God-man par 5.3 The Disciples Returned to Galilee – par 5.3.1.3.2 Significance of Counting the 153 Fishes.)

                The donation of Christ to the marriage supper in the first miracle was a symbol of the means of salvation. The water represented baptism into his death, the wine, the shedding of his blood for the purifying of the sins of the world. The provision made for the wedding-guests was ample, and not less abundant is the provision for blotting out the iniquities of men. The symbolism of the wedding festivities pointed forward to the rejoicing of that day when He shall bring home His bride to the Father's House, and the redeemed, those who love and obey God will partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb in the kingdom of God, and Jesus Himself will serve them. Jesus has elaborated on the final scene of the final consummation of His victory with two other parables.  In the amplification on the parable of the “Ten Virgins,”(Mat 25:1-13)  E.G. White wrote:

                “The coming of the bridegroom, here brought to view, takes place before the marriage. The marriage represents the reception by Christ of his kingdom. The holy city, the New Jerusalem, which is the capital and representative of the kingdom, is called “the bride, the Lamb's wife.” Said the angel to John, “Come hither, I will show thee the bride, the Lamb's wife.” “He carried me away in the spirit,” says the prophet, “and showed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of Heaven from God.” [Revelation 21:9, 10.] Clearly, then, the bride the holy city, and the virgins that go out to meet the bridegroom are a symbol of the church. In the Revelation the people of God are said to be the guests at the marriage supper. [Revelation 19:9.] If guests, they cannot be represented also as the bride. Christ, as stated by the prophet Daniel, will receive from the Ancient of days in Heaven, “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom,” he will receive the New Jerusalem, the capital of his kingdom, “prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.” [Daniel 7:14; Revelation 21:2.] Having received the kingdom, he will come in his glory, as King of kings, and Lord of lords, for the redemption of his people, who are to “sit down with Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob,” at his table in his kingdom, [Matthew 8:11; Luke 22:30.] to partake of the marriage supper of the Lamb.  {GC88 426.2}

                In the parable of the wedding garment, “Without a Wedding Garment” (Mat 22:1-14), is a lesson of the highest consequence. By the marriage is represented the union of humanity with divinity; the wedding garment represents the character which all must possess who shall be accounted fit guests for the wedding.  {COL 307.1} 

                In this parable, as in that of the great supper (Luk 14:15-24), are illustrated the gospel invitation, its rejection by the Jewish people, and the call of mercy to the Gentiles. But on the part of those who reject the invitation, this parable brings to view a deeper insult and a more dreadful punishment. The call to the feast is a king's invitation. It proceeds from one who is vested with power to command. It confers high honour. Yet the honour is unappreciated. The king's authority is despised. While the householder's invitation was regarded with indifference (Luk 14:18), the king's is met with insult and murder. They treated his servants with scorn, despitefully using them and slaying them (Mat 22:6).  {COL 307.2} 

                The householder, on seeing his invitation slighted, declared that none of the men who are bidden should taste of his supper (Luk 14:24). But for those who had done despite to the king, more than exclusion from his presence and his table is decreed. "He sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and burned up their city."-Mat 22:7.  {COL 307.3}

                In both parables the feast is provided with guests, but the second shows that there is a preparation to be made by all who attend the feast. Those who neglect this preparation are cast out. {COL 308.1}   

                The man at the feast who exclaimed, "Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God,"(Luk 14:15) occupied a position similar to the man who is represented as coming in to the marriage supper without having on the wedding garment. This man did not realize that he must be clothed with the garment of Christ's righteousness. He was not thinking of his fitness for heaven, but of the pleasures to be enjoyed in the kingdom of God. He made no remark concerning getting ready for eating bread with the saints in light, nor thought that he must live unselfishly, and day by day fulfill the duties that God requires that men shall do for their fellow-men. He did not realize the selfishness of his course in indulging himself at his neighbour's expense, or in feasting a few favourites who would recompense him again. He did not appreciate the love that had been manifested by the Lord toward him in bestowing upon his undeserving subject a profusion of rich gifts.  {RH, October 15, 1895 par. 2}

                By the king's examination of the guests at the feast is represented a work of judgment. The guests at the gospel feast are those who profess to serve God, those whose names are written in the book of life. But not all who profess to be Christians are true disciples. Before the final reward is given, it must be decided who are fitted to share the inheritance of the righteous. This decision must be made prior to the second coming of Christ in the clouds of heaven; for when He comes, His reward is with Him, "to give every man according as his work shall be." Revelation 22:12. Before His coming, then, the character of every man's work will have been determined, and to every one of Christ's followers the reward will have been apportioned according to his deeds.  {COL 310.1}  (Only the covering which Christ Himself has provided can make us meet to appear in God's presence. This covering, the robe of His own righteousness, Christ will put upon every repenting, believing soul. "I counsel thee," He says, "to buy of Me . . . white raiment, that thou mayest be clothed, and that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear." Revelation 3:18.)

                The king sees one who has come to the table without the wedding garment, which he himself has provided for every guest. He is clothed in his old citizen's dress. Why should he insult his lord by refusing to wear the dress that has been prepared for him? Addressing the one who has thus dishonoured him, the king says: "Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. For many are called, but few are chosen."- Mat 22:12-14. (This man has lost his soul forever.)  

              (For an added discovery tour to the avid seekers, a more detailed discussion on the “Marriage Supper Call is Ending” in the “Day Approaching Exhortations Sequel” at www.wakeupow.com/152909643, Par 7.6.1 Marriage Supper Call is Ending, par 7.6.1.1 Laudato Si’ (7.6.1.1.1 Sunday Statement- 237; 7.6.1.1.2 World Leaders’ Endorsements; 7.6.1.1.1.3 The Scientists Responses; 7.6.1.1.4. Responses on Political Impacts); 7.6.1.2 Sunday Work- Danger to Health and Safety;7.6.1.3 US National Day of Prayer; (7.6.1.3.1 NDP 2016 Theme; 7.6.1.3.2 The Prayer for 2016; 7.6.1.3.2.1 Church and State in Question; 7.6.1.3.2.1.1 Church is Above State; 7.6.1.3.2.2 Basis of Sunday Law); 7.6.1.4 Pope Awarded Charlemagne Prize, 2016 (7.6.1.4.1 Pope’s Dream for Europe; 7.6.1.4.2 Catholic and Protestants Unite Politically; 7.6.1.4.3 Catholics in CIA;)7.6.2 Rejection of Jesus Marriage Invitation: 7.6.2.1 Spiritual Darkness of the Jews; 7.6.2.2 The First Angel’s Message; (7.6.2.2.1 Disunity instead of Unity;) 7.6.2.3 The Second Angel’s Message; (7.6.2.3.1 The Spiritual Marriage to Christ; 7.6.2.3.2 The Harlot of Babylon; 7.6.2.3.2.1 The Original Apostasy of Papacy; 7.6.2.3.3 Harlot’s Daughters; 7.6.2.3.3.1 The Apostasy of Protestant Churches;)7.6.2.4 The Teaching of False Doctrines; 7.6.2.5 Second Angel's Message Paetial Fulfillment; (7.6.2.5.1 The Midnight Hour; 7.6.2.5.2 The Remnant Truth Seekers of Christ;) 7.6.2.6 The Final Pentecost; (7.6.2.6.1 Third Angel’s Message Closing Scene; 7.6.2.6.2 Deliverance of the Saints;) 7.6.2.7 The Rest of the Great Controversy; 7.6.2.8 The Severity of Marriage Invitation Rejection; (7.6.2.8.1 The Rejection by the Jews; 7.6.2.8.2 Gentiles Receiving the Third Call; 7.6.2.8.2.1 Spiritual Significance of King’s Examination; 7.6.2.8.3 The Robe of Christ’s Righteousness; 7.6.2.8.3 Wearing the Wedding Garment; 7.6.2.8.3.1 God’s Law Immutable; 7.6.2.8.4 People Not Wearing the Wedding Garment; 7.6.2.8.5 The Exalted Privilege of This Generation; 7.6.2.8.6 The Day of Judgment Decision; 7.6.2.8.6.1 No Second Chance; 7.6.3 “Faith in Christ” Realisation at Marriage Banquet.)

                It is impossible for man to save himself. He may deceive himself in regard to this matter, but he cannot save himself. Christ's righteousness alone can avail for his salvation, and this is the gift of God. This is the wedding garment in which you may appear as a welcome guest at the marriage supper of the Lamb. Let faith take hold of Christ without delay, and you will be a new creature in Jesus, a light to the world.  {1SM 331.1} 

                God has made every provision whereby our thoughts may become purified, elevated, refined, and ennobled. He has not only promised to cleanse us from all unrighteousness, but He has made an actual provision for the supply of grace that will lift our thoughts toward Him and enable us to appreciate His holiness. We may realize that we are Christ's possession and that we are to manifest His character to the world. Prepared by heavenly grace, we become clothed with the righteousness of Christ, in the wedding garment, and are fitted to sit down at the marriage supper. We become one with Christ, partakers of the divine nature, purified, refined, elevated, and acknowledged to be the children of God--heirs of God and joint heirs with Jesus Christ.--YI, Oct 28, 1897.

                We must, if we overcome, use the means placed within our reach. We must put on the Lord Jesus Christ. By faith we must clothe ourselves with the righteousness of Christ and put no confidence in our own merits. Many are seeking to be present at the marriage supper of the Lamb in their own citizen's dress, discarding the robe woven in the loom of heaven and prepared for all at infinite cost, as a free gift to His guests that shall eat of His supper. We must wear the livery of heaven. We must be clothed in Christ's righteousness and go to warfare at His expense and under His bloodstained banner, or we are none of His.--Manuscript 41, Oct. 9, 1890, "Diary: Labors at Adam's Center."

                6.2 Basic Healthy Living

                In Par 6.1.1.1- Main Effects of Eating Meat you were primed to SEE power-pointbible study, Search For Certainty (series of 30 lessons), lesson 15 - SFC15: Lifestyle – Unhealthy Living; (to open click https://dl.dropbox.com/u/28520380/SFC%20Bible%20Study/SFC15.ppt)) (All the lessons are listed at http://www.wakeupow.com/152909617)

                Some of the points in the bible study (not brought up earlier) are:

                Food characteristics - For Best Health: High in Vitamins & Minerals, Fiber, Phytochemicals; Adequate in Protein*; Low in Total Fat, saturated Fat, Salt, Cholesterol. Plant Food is High in Vitamins & Minerals, Fibres, Phytochemicals; Adequate in Proteins; Low in Total Fat, Saturated Fat, No Cholesterol.  Animal Meat is Adequate Protein; Deficient in Fiber, Phytochemicals, Vitamins & Minerals; High in Total Fat, Saturated Fat & Cholesterol.

                (*Note: The DRI (Dietary Reference Intake) is 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight, or 0.36 grams per pound. This amounts to: 56 grams per day for the average sedentary man; 46 grams per day for the average sedentary woman.)

                The Bible says the swine or pigs are unclean (Leviticus 11:7, 8). God’s counsel applies to all pork products, including bacon, ham and pork-based sandwich meats. Pork is extremely high in fat, contributing to coronary artery disease. Trichinosis is a well-established fact from the eating of contaminated pork products. Bacon and ham cured with nitrates are seriously suspect as a contributing factor to cancer. (Examples of unclean meat are: Camel, Horse, Pig (bacon, ham etc. Examples of clean meat are: Beef, Deer, Lamb, and Chicken.) The scientific evidence in favour of God’s diet is continually growing in the twenty-first century.

                The brain is the organ and instrument of the mind, and controls the whole body. In order for the other parts of the system to be healthy, the brain must be healthy. And in order for the brain to be healthy, the blood must be pure. If by correct habits of eating and drinking the blood is kept pure, the brain will be properly nourished.  {MM 291.2} Correct habits of eating and drinking-> pure blood -> healthy brain ->good thoughts

                6.2.1 The Eight Laws of Health

                Watch https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nr8GDwSeWuM (5:12) –“8 Laws of Health (ELH) –00 Introduction,” by Dr Randy Bivens – www.lifeandhealth.org,  published on Aug 13, 2012.

                There's a Yiddish blessing, 'biz a hoondred oon zwvuntzig', which translates: 'may you live to 120'. Scientists at USC recently calculated the theoretical age a human should live to 120. Also, Roy Wolford, a pioneer in the science of aging, suggests it is possible for the human body to last 120 years. This may be due to our DNA's remarkable ability to repair errors that it develops. Research suggests that this ability breaks down around 120. (There is a verse in the Old Testament that says the length of life, in the midst of sinful living, is 70 years that may extend another ten years by reason of strength- Ps 90:8-9).

                So why aren't we all living this long? On average, Americans are only living for 78 years. Are there changes we can make in order to make those additional 42 years a reality? The answer is that there is not much stopping us from reclaiming these extra years (and theoretically adding a third to our lifespans). The solution lies in 8 simple remedies, which we can start pursuing today for free, the gift from God. It is called “NEWSTART” acronym for Nutrition, Exercise; Water; Sunlight; Temperance; Air; Rest; and Trust. They will make us live longer and more satisfying lives than we may have imagined. Let us take the journey to longer healthier and more fulfilled lives together.

                Simple tips: 1. Water- daily need= (body wt lbs/2) oz = 7-8 glasses; 2. Exercise - walk 2 miles/day (min) at 3 mph for 6 days per week; 3. Nutrition –eat more whole foods, raw or simply prepared, to reduce calories intake; 4. Sleep – at least 7-8 hrs for body to repair and restore; 5. Sunlight- Vitamin D from sunshine (10-20 min) for healthy immune system (removes toxins and free radicals); 6. Fresh air - take deep breaths outdoors, several times daily; 7. Temperance – long life associated with temperate lifestyle, take good things in moderation and avoid bad things (e.g. people with unexpected longevity living in Blue zones); 8. Trust in God (Spirituality)- connection with divine power adds years. All these laws can give us 120 years life vs 78 year for Americans.

                6.2.1.1 Water- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKmnKUqIctk (4:52) “ELH - 01 Water”, published on Aug 23, 2012

                Research shows that drinking anything (tea¸ coffee¸ soda and even fruit juices) other than water actually increases coronary heart disease. Water reduces high blood pressure, cholesterol.  Adequate water intake will cure (or reduce incidences of) many diseases – kidney stones, gall bladder disease, constipation, urinary tract  infections, high blood pressure, glaucoma, and venus blood clot) and with  no side effects. Perhaps you are wondering, 'how is it that something as simple as drinking water has such a substantial effect on our coronary health?' Well, it has been shown that dehydration elevates blood stickiness and increases blood elements that promote clotting. When elevated, these are risk factors for coronary heart disease.
            So, how much water should you drink? Here is a good rule of thumb: take your body weight (in pounds) and divide it in half. That number is the recommended number of ounces you should drink every day (your need for water increases with exercise, warmer temperatures, and fever). When dealing with these situations, use your common sense and make sure you drink enough.  

            It is helpful to drink at least one glass (make it 2) of water as soon as you wake up in the morning as well as a glass of water at bedtime  (at least 2 hrs before bed preferred). This has been shown to significantly reduce your heart attack risk for that night.

            Your body is 75% water and your brain is 85% water. Water is more than a simple solvent— it is important in many body functions.

            With all of these benefits, why don't we hear more about water? Could it be, because you cannot patent water, there is no profit in its research or its promotion?

            To live longer, better, healthier lives, we need to develop the habit of drinking generous amounts of water (treated water meeting WHO drinking water std. or charcoal filtered water), in conjunction with reducing (or eliminating) the consumption of tea, coffee, soda, and fruit drinks. We just need plain, pure water.

            6.2.1.2 Exercise - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieOfEgUnMYs  (4:53) “ELH - 02 Exercise”, published on Dec 4, 2012.

            Regular exercises reduce our risks of many diseases including obesity, high blood pressure, coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, osteoporosis, cancers, anxiety and depression.

            Monitoring studies at Stanford University over three decades show that exercises is critical to health. Exerciser have better agility, better heart health, increased bone mass, less inflammation, less physical disability and improved thinking, learning and memory. They live significantly longer.

            Many people claim that they do not have enough time in the day to exercise. But let me reveal a little secret: for every minute of exercise, you gain two minutes of longevity. So you just do a little borrowing—you borrow from the future. Take time to care for your body now, and it will pay off double in the future.

            Studies show exercise prevents many types of cancer, particularly colon and breast cancer. Current cancer patients can also benefit from exercise. They can reduce cancer related deaths and recurrence by 40%. Increasing physical activity after age of 50 have tremendous benefits- adds 2-4 years to your life and disability free for additional 5.7 years for better quality of life. Maintaining physical fitness is the most important health factor.  Walking 5 miles a week (burning 500 calories) has positive health benefit; but more is better- 2-3 miles per day at 3mph, six days per week (1800 calories per week) recommended.

            According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, the average American spends two hours and forty-five minutes a day watching television. However, time spent participating in sports, exercise, or recreation was drastically less: the average being only 18 minutes a day. The numbers speak for themselves. We have enough time to take care of our bodies; we simply need to prioritize it.

                6.2.1.3 Nutrition- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXbwndHmf04  (5:10) “ELH - 03 Nutrition”, published on Feb 21, 2013.

                Modern lifestyle of eating fast foods are consuming  high intake of  preservatives and hormones  compared to three generations earlier who ate produce directly from home grown plants of fruits and vegetable. They would eat a huge breakfast, a large lunch and a fairly small meal for supper. Our goal is to prepare most of our meal from ingredients that are healthy  home grown or from a farmer’s market- fresh and not in packages that are processed and refined foods with modified nutritional values . The time spent in preparing your own food is worth the benefits for not having hyper processed food products.

                Here are some simple rules for eating healthy and living longer:
1. Eat a large breakfast.
2. Eat 75% of your calories in the first two meals (breakfast and lunch).
3. Have only a light meal in the evening with foods such as soup, cereal, or a small sandwich— mainly foods that are easy to digest. (Do not snack between meals to rest the digestion system- keep 4-5 hours between meals.)                                                                                                                                    4. Remember to consume plenty of water. (Drink 1 hour before and after meals and not with a meal.)
5. Consume 10 servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
6. Eat a level handful of nuts each day.
7. 20% of all calories now come from snack foods—eliminate snacks.
8. Choose whole grains—whole wheat bread, whole grain cereals, and brown rice (not refined grains).
9. Avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, including fruit juice.
10. Eat more legumes (peas, beans and lentils).
11. Learn to read food labels.

Nutrition is one of the best ways to a longer and healthier life.
(For wellness articles, vegan recipe demos, and more, visit: http://www.lifeandhealth.org/)

                6.2.1.4 Rest- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bkaK6m-FUi0  (5:33) “ELH - 04 Rest”, published on Apr 4, 2013.

            Have you ever stayed up all night studying for a test? Have you ever wondered why our bodies convince us to close our eyes and drift away for 8 hours every night? Why do we sleep? What would happen if we just decided to stop sleeping? How long would we be able to last?

            The world record for living without sleep is 11 days. Lab rats actually die from sleep deprivation faster than starving to death! Like breathing, eating, and moving, sleep is an instinctual, critical component of our lives that can be carried out in an unhealthy or healthy manner. We're going to talk about the effects of both.

            Most, if not all, of us can feel the effects of not getting enough sleep. It hits us hard the next morning like an overindulgent meal—we feel foggy and drained, our memory doesn't work so well, and we can struggle to carry out even the simplest of tasks.

            A recently published study reported that if you regularly sleep less than 7 hours each night, your immune system would suffer for it, making you three times more likely to get sick. People with little sleep also tend to be more overweight and have shorter lifespans. Research has actually shown that sleeping less alters the metabolic pathways that regulate appetite, making you feel hungrier as a result. Quality sleep on a regular basis is necessary for a robust immune system.

            REM, the "deep sleep" phase of the sleep cycle is where the most intense neural activity occurs. During REM sleep, blood circulation increases, oxygen levels rise, and brain tissue absorbs more amino acids. Scientists even go so far as to say that "good sleepers" are mentally sharper and are also at lower risk of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's.

            Even though our bodies might appear very still when we sleep, it's actually quite active, metabolically. Free radicals—substances that have been shown to be involved in many disease processes—are gobbled up at an increased rate during sleep. Reparative processes are also active; such as protein production fixing the damage our bodies sustained during the day, like sun damage.

            So how much sleep do we need? Studies show that optimal health is achieved when new-borns sleep 16-18 hours, young children sleep 10-12 hours, older children and teens sleep 9 hours, and adults sleep 7-8 hours. This doesn't mean that our need for sleep decreases continually with age. In fact, senior citizens need as much sleep as teenagers.

            It has been shown that for those adults sleeping less than 7 hours, their risk of dying increases by 21% in women and 26% in men, a startling number that leads us to our advice for a better, healthier sleep lifestyle:1) Turn off the light – light naturally suppresses the body’s natural release of melatonin; 2) Avoid electronic devices TV, computer, I-phone hinders natural ability to fall asleep; 3) Stick to a schedule – sleep before midnight is worth  twice as much; 4) Relax and get comfortable; 5) Say no to drugs – no sleeping pills that increase risk of many diseases and shorten life span if REM sleep not achieved; 6) Watch what you eat and eat before 7 pm.; 7) Get active- daily physical activity promotes better sleep; 8) Be thankful- close the day by contemplating the day’s blessings and spending time in prayer. Forgive others and make amends with people you have wronged.

            It might have been some time since you've felt great in the morning, but waking up with a clear mind and zest to start the day is entirely possible, and entirely worth turning off the light an hour earlier than usual. Try it for a week, then try it for the rest of your life. You'll feel better, think clearer, look better, and even live longer.

                6.2.1.5 Sunlight- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xaaqtQ0LRJs (4:32) “ELH - 05 Sunlight”, published on Mar 11, 2013

            It's warm, it's bright—the sun is generally thought to be a pretty happy component in our everyday lives. But why do we need it? What makes it indispensable to our lives?

            Two words: Vitamin D. There is a cholesterol-like compound in our blood that transforms into Vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. This Vitamin D is then converted to its active form by the liver and then by the kidneys.

            Well, that begs the question, why do we need Vitamin D? What happens if you don't have enough? For years we've understood Vitamin D's role in regulating calcium levels and how a deficiency can cause both rickets and osteoporosis. Today, we know that Vitamin D also has an important role as a steroid hormone in gene modulation. This means Vitamin D can help turn on health promoting genes while suppressing bad genes, especially oncogenes, a gene-group that promotes cancer.

            It is also an important antioxidant. Studies show prostate cancer rate reduced by 50%. It also reduces many other types of cancer.

            A short time in the sun  (20-30 minutes) is sufficient (excess are not useful, but will tide over winter months deficit.) UVA causes skin cancer, only UVB produces vitamin D. UVB is blocked by sun screen, Sunshine is important for cancer reduction prevention, reducing osteoporosis and rickets prevention. It keeps you happy - Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) – a type of depression occurring every year beginning in the fall and improving in the spring- caused by decreasing amounts of sunlight and colder weather. Phototherapy can improve vitamin production.

            Spend more time in the sun. It's an easy step towards making your life a little bit better (and brighter).

                6.2.1.6 Air- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3qxThRf_44U  (4:23) “ELH - 06 Air”, published on May 28, 2013

            Although we can survive for weeks without food and multiple days without water, we would die after just a few minutes without a breath of air.

            Audrey Mestre came from a family of scuba divers and snorkelers and spent a large portion of her life underwater. She was so confident in her abilities that in 2002 she attempted a world record dive of 561 feet off the coast of the Dominican Republic. The day of the dive came and at 300 feet, tragedy struck: Audrey blacked out and was rushed back up to the surface. But, after spending nine long minutes without oxygen, she couldn't be revived and passed away. Audrey's death brings to light just how crucial air is to our lives, but how much do we really know about it?

            Air is roughly 21% Oxygen and 79% Nitrogen (and smaller amounts charged  of other elements as well as particulate materials such as pollens, dust and other pollutants). The best air for optimum health is oxygen- rich negatively charged air (ions with more electrons).- this is usually attached to Oxygen and tends to concentrate  in rivers and waterfalls due to their. movements and at beaches, forests, mountains and places struck by lightning (natural outdoors) Their levels are 10x more than in the house or office. They contribute to better moods, more energy, better sleep and an overall sense of well-being. High positive ion concentration causes higher levels of anxiety and depression.

            Taking 3-5 deep breaths of fresh air (increased oxygen) can clear the mind. Sleep with windows open. Step outside for a minute every hour for a breath of fresh air. Go outdoor  on weekend. Grow plants indoor- ferns palms and lilies for oxygen and to reduce contaminants like formaldehyde and carbon- monoxide.

                6.2.1.7 Temperance- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Retk6cwOd_s  (4:24) “ELH - 07 Temperance”, published on May 28, 2013.

            "Joy, temperance, and repose, slam the door on the doctor's nose." Although this was said in the early 1800s by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, it's as relevant as ever today. Think about it, too much of anything is bad. Even drinking too much water can be deadly. Wouldn't you agree that we need to keep our habits in check?

            Too much time spent in the sun can lead to skin burn and even cancer. Temperance is a state of mind wherein you practise balance with your body and your health. This is an age old problem. Adam and Eve could not resist from eating the forbidden fruit. 

            The practice of moderation- We need to control our body and our action. The most challenging situation is in our diet- obesity, an increasing worldwide issue that will soon become the leading cause of death. Therefore when it comes to food choice, think and choose temperately. Eat enough to sustain your physical needs and choose nutrient rich foods. Other products that stimulate our senses are nicotine, caffeine and depressants like alcohol. Drinking of alcohol even for supposedly beneficial in small amount can become a habit and addictive. Habitual drinking is clearly a health hazard and total abstinence is a better choice. Practice temperance in your reliance on technology- time spent on mobile phone and playing computer games. Spend more time with your friends and family. Engage in a real conversation without a TV blaring in the background.

            The true key in a temperate lifestyle lies in our minds. We need to learn to safeguard our thoughts and carefully monitor our emotions if your type gives rise to anger easily take a deep breath and learn the power of forgiveness. Be humble and control your bragging. Be more compassionate and empathise rather than judgmental.  Think of your mind as the springboard for all your actions.

                6.2.1.8 Trust- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vNjYvr93fwU  (4:59) “ELH - 08 Trust”, published on Jul 15, 2013

            New brain scan research has shown that spiritual practices can actually improve memory and may even slow down the aging process itself. Dr A. Newberg in his book, “How God Changes your Brain,” says spiritual practices are inherently good for bodies especially our brains. Meditation and prayer play significant roles in strengthening important circuits in our brains which make us more socially aware and alert while reducing anxiety depression and neurological stress.

            A study in religious involvement found that people who never attend religious activities exhibited close to two times the risk of death compared with those attending religious activities more than once a week. This amounts to more than 7 years in life expectancy (comparable to not smoking), possibly signifying that trust in God changes our brains and our bodies in living healthier, happier and longer lives.   

            Different studies have shown a connection between a lack of religious service attendances and respiratory disease, infectious disease and diabetes. The health risks extend so far as high blood pressure, depression, suicide, lung cancer, chronic obstructive lung disease, and hospital admissions. It is also more like to become physically disabled and suffer from weaker immune systems.

            In contrast regular church attendees were more likely to stop smoking, increase physical activities, become more social and stayed married. Organised religion usually provides a social support system that’s been shown to improve overall health.  In a study of cardiac surgery patients, people with low social support who depend not on religious faith for strength had a mortality rate that was 12 higher than people who did have a strong religious network to rely on. It was not the social support network that makes the difference was confirmed in a study on 22 Kibutzims (11 religious and 11 secular   collective Jewish farming communities) for 16 years, nearly twice as many people in the secular community died during the study.

            Many studies on power of prayer have shown that prayer has beneficial health effects particularly for the person who is doing the praying. Studies that petitioner’s prayer in which a person prays for his or hers own health or peace of mind show tangible statistical results. Science backs up the benefit of praying for your own health especially when it comes to mental health and clinical depression.

            God knows what makes us most healthy. God wants to have a relationship with us. When we allow Him into our lives our brains are turned on, our bodies are made more efficient, and our immune systems are strengthened. Thinking becomes clearer and we feel great. Our goal of living healthier longer life being rooted firmly in God and our worshipping with like-minded believers has been shown to be one of the most effective strategies.                     

                6.2.1.9 Summary - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bZhV4oUFRbE  (5:04) “ELH - 09 Attitude”, published on Jul 15, 2013

            There are literally thousands of studies and articles discussing the impact attitude have on health, aging and longevity. In a review of 160 published medical studies, it was shown that people with positive mental attitude enjoyed better health and longer lives (examples given in clip). But if we have health only physically by relying on our own effort it is not complete without the peace in our soul.  Consider the serenity prayer: God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; the courage to change the things I can; and the wisdom to know the difference.

            The things we can do in answer to the serenity pray that is in conformance to the eight laws of health are: 1. Wake up early; 2. Exercise outdoor to also enjoy nature; 3. Get spiritually connected; 4. Plan ahead with a clear mind and put your trust in God to guide you; 5. Be thankful for all good things you are blessed with and to think of others that need your help. 6. Be joyful for “a joyful heart is good medicine”- Solomon.    .        

            We must have an open-minded attitude and a teachable heart toward the eight laws of health and to try it out to see if it is in fact true in practice. “We are so familiar with our own peculiar traits of character that we often think too highly of self, we become satisfied, and do not seek to improve as we should. Sanctification through the truth requires a daily improvement in manner, address, attitude, and spirit. .. we must not think that there are no improvements to be made, for we are to learn daily in the school of Christ, not how to reach the highest place, but to become meek and lowly of heart.. Humble yourselves before God, and resort to prayer, for you cannot and must not attempt to work at variance.“ {TSA 23.3}

                The use of natural remedies requires an amount of care and effort that many are not willing to give. Nature's process of healing and up-building is gradual, and to the impatient it seems slow. The surrender of hurtful indulgences requires sacrifice. But in the end it will be found that nature, untrammelled, does her work wisely and well. Those who persevere in obedience to her laws will reap the reward in health of body and health of mind. {MH 127.3}

                Through the agencies of nature, God is working, day by day and hour by hour, moment by moment, to keep us alive, to build and restore us. When any part of the body sustains injury, a healing process is at once begun; .. nature’s agencies are set at work to restore soundness.  But the power working through these agencies is the power of God ---When one recovers from disease, it is God who restores him.” (My Life Today 135)

                “Newstart” can be put to practice for free.  A person’s health is a function of your lifestyle.  However for those who need help to change their bad habits as manifested in their current health  conditions there is the  “Newstart” healthy living program* to teach you how to improve and optimise your health. It is a physician monitored, scientifically researched lifestyle change program based on these eight fundamental principles proven to help you reverse some debilitating diseases and achieve optimum health - See more at: http://newstart.com/about-the-program/#sthash.EG08DYmy.dpuf  

                 (*PS: Good news for Singaporeans- See D6a- for the upcoming Newstart Singapore on Dec 4-7, 2016)  

                6.2.2 The NEWSTART Program

                To assist those who would like to know more about such a “Newstart” program click  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGIqQJ65bfo (53:18)- “Health Evangelism: What is Newstart? - Health Lecture” by Dr C. Ing, published on Jul 4, 2016

                Some of the main points in this introduction talk on the  ”NEWSTART  Program” are:

- Who is helped by NEWSTART? What it means and How to benefit from it? We are personally responsible for health (other than those born disabled).

- The Ing’s family five children raised on plant based diet- 6’3’’- 5’7”, maturation (menstruation) at later age, Profession - physician, veterinarian, ophthalmologist, electrical engineer and a businessman.

- Reversal of Diabetes over three month study ( article in Diabetes Educator, Jan-Feb, 20004)- Total 317 participants in NEWSTART, 217 with diabetes, 94 with obesity. Women- 66%, men- 34%; average age - 55 years. Result­­s after three months - The mean blood sugar (FBS) dropped from 150 to 120 mg/dL, CHL down 40mg/dL, and 21 lbs weight drop). 4 out of 10 or 40 % diabetes type2 were able to control their blood sugar level without any medicine.

- Success stories cited  (11:30- 17:20)- Case 1: Tom 58 y/o dentist, 381.4 lbs with diabetes and high blood pressure who lost 16.2 lbs with normal blood pressure in 18 days and  lost 83.4 lbs after 5 months with normal blood pressure and blood sugar and no longer needing medication. Seventeen months later he weighs 240 lbs. Case 2: Ron 68 y/o, 265 lbs, with heart attack 14 years earlier, angina for 3 months, hypertension, diabetic neuropathy for 5 years and obesity for 25 years and not expected to live very long by his cardiologist. He lost 16 lbs after 18 days and 200lbs 12 years later. The cost of the program in 1999 was U.S. $ 5000.

- World health risks: lack of food, unsafe sex¸ high blood pressure, smoking, alcohol, unsafe water or sanitation, high CHL, nutritional deficiencies e,g, lack of iron, and obesity.

- Key factors in fighting chronic disease- WHO and FAO said less saturated fats (meat), sugar and salt, more fruit and vegetables and at least one hour of activity of moderate intensity (e.g. walking) a day.

- Worldwide Ranking of Killer Disease

1. Cardiovascular diseases – 16.7 million deaths annually (19:16- 20:40);

2. High blood pressure- 7.1 million annually;

3. Cancer- 6 million annually; 

4. Smoking/tobacco- 4.9 million annually (8.9% of all deaths worldwide);

5. Cholesterol (excessive and from meat, fish, eggs, milk)- 4.4 million annually (18% of cardiovascular illnesses);

7. Unsafe sex- 2.9 million annually

-Lifestyle includes what you do as well as what you don’t do that maybe you should do. Today is the first day of the rest of the days which by the word of God is eternity. God has a plan our life, for each of us. How long you live is up to you. It is never too late to eat right and to exercise.  Start today to improve and optimise your health, it is later than you think. Heart disease, high blood pressure and diabetes can be brought under control by following the “Newstart” program to choose wisely and have the right attitude.

- Plant based diet lowers obesity, heart disease, blood cholesterol, diabetes, cancer- colon and prostate, less risk of cognitive decline- senile dementia, Alzheimers,

- “In spite of the fact that the writing s of Mrs White were written long before the advent of modern scientific nutrition, no better overall guide is available today”- Clive McKay, PhD., Dept. of Nutrition, Cornell Univ.

- “In our opinion, nutrition is the most important single environmental factor affecting health.”- Dr G.M. Vanderbilt, Dr F. Stare, Harvard SPH

- “Let thy food be thy medicine.”- Hippocrates

- God wants you to have good health (3 Jn 2) and has made every provision for that for each one of us. The choice to make of what to eat is the guideline: “Whole Plant Foods Eaten Whole!” (to define what qualify) “at regular times, with nothing between meals, in sufficient quantity to attain and maintain your weight!”

- The whole person is physical, mental and spiritual- 1The 5:23.  All these aspects must be addressed. Paul also tells us that whatever you do (even eating and drinking), do all to the glory of God ( 1Cor 10:31. We cannot trust our appetite which often demands food that impairs health and causes weakness instead of strength. We cannot be guided by the customs of society (U.S. food- meats , potatoes, eggs, dairies; the popular error)

- Ideal meal pattern- 70% Carbohydrates (complex and unrefined) cereal grains; 20% Fat- vegetable, fruits and nuts; 10% Protein- vegetable, legumes- beans, peas, lentils, cereal grains .

- Regular exercises can reduce diabetes by 50%. (Blacks, Asians, Latinos more susceptible, people over 45, overweight, high in cholesterol and blood pressure are at higher risk.)

-God’s Life Activating Diet (GLAD) includes whole plant foods eaten whole, no snacking, and avoiding meat, fish, chicken, eggs, and dairy products.) Eat a wholesome breakfast large enough to provide one-third to one-half of the day’s nutrient requirements i.e. eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and supper like a pauper.

                This 18 days Live-in program offered by Weimar Institute of California is a health recovery program designed to prevent and reverse disease through natural methods such as reversing diabetes and heart disease, relieving arthritis and losing weight. (See more information and testimonials at: http://newstart.com/#sthash.hEAfbcOy.dpuf 

                There is also a more an affordable, lifestyle enrichment program, the “Complete Health Improvement Program” (CHIP), designed to reduce disease risk factors through the adoption of better health habits and appropriate lifestyle modifications. The goal is to lower blood cholesterol, hypertension, and blood sugar levels and reduce excess weight. This is done by improving dietary choices, enhancing daily exercise, increasing support systems and decreasing stress, thus aiding in preventing and reversing disease.- see http://www.chiphealth.com/about-chip/about-chip/   

                There are many others available in the U.S. (E,g. Eight weeks to Wellness, perhaps with some slight variations).  In Asia, the nearest to Singaporean* is the Aenon Health Care, Tampin, located about half an hour from Melaka town, West Malaysia. The Lifestyle Center (since 1999) has the concept of a home-style live-in environment for interaction among the guests but also provides the freedom of space for those who require some time to be alone. It offers lifestyle programs (5-day, 10-day and 20-day packages) that renew body, mind and spirit in a Christian context, and services guests of all religions and races. This Lifestyle Center can accommodate to a maximum of 15 guests capacity comfortably and provide health package programs to restore health through lifestyle medicine; incorporating health education, preventive medicine and simple natural remedies.

 

               (*PS: Good news for Singaporeans- See D6a- for the upcoming Newstart Singapore on Dec 4-7, 2016)

 

                The health resources at http://newstart.com/blog/#sthash.j6XF9ufO.dpbs  contain articles and videos written by Dr Neil Nedley, President of Weimar Institute, that should be very informative on  topics as: Top 20 Foods to slow Aging; Holistic Cancer Prevention; What you need to know about Charcoal; The Caffeine Debate; The Juicing Craze;  Top Five Cholesterol- lowing Foods;  The Joy of Exercise; 7 Diseases Water can cure;  Aluminium on Health.

                Watch other Present Truth Health Evangelism videos at https://www.heavenpreparation.org/health-evangelism  for a series of sample (promotion) videos on Newstart   Lifestyle programs conducted at Weimar Institute:

                https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2T-cylQ3PQ&feature=player_embedded  Dr Zeno L. Charles-Marcel, MD Health Evangelism: Prevention and Treatment of Diabetes (Sample Video) Learn the difference between Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes and what you can do to avoid this deadly disease.

            https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LzaoIMuT74&feature=player_embedded - Health Evangelism: Reversing Heart Disease Part 1 of 3 (Sample Video)

 

                6.2.3 Health Resources Availability

                Other internet resources on health matters are:

1. https://amazingdiscoveries.tv/c/6/Health/ - a  highly recommended site with a very extensive range of very good seminars and talks on health.

2, http://amazinghealth.com/AH-health-natural-remedies-disease - Natural treatment for Cancer; Common Illnesses; Depression; Digestion and Excretion; Fever; Muscle and Bone Pain; Wounds and  External Ailments.

3. http://www.trans4mind.com/nutrition/pH.html -  Balancing Acid/Alkaline Foods By Peter Shepherd

4. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNDYRp4YBWI –how to keep your Brain healthy, by Dr Bergman

 

5. http://www.wakeupow.com/152909620 - health reports - Dietary Supplement Helps with OCD; Good News on Cancer  (article by Dr Nedley; Heart Attack and Water; Steps to Health; Finding on Processed Meat and Cancer; Diabetes is Reversible

 

6. http://www.wakeupow.com/152909640 - Healthy Living- Exercise.

 

More will be added progressively in subpage 6a providing articles, video talks  and  perhaps updates on local healthy lifestyle programmes that may be made available.

- End of D6, pp 54-82 (28pages), dated Sep 11’2016

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