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Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans

Sweet potatoes are a quintessential part of our family’s holiday traditions- in fact, I can’t remember a Thanksgiving or Christmas without them on the table. Growing up, my aunt was hailed for making an amazing sweet potato casserole with pecan crunch topping.  Every casserole she made contained a whole lot of love… and butter… and sugar!  Essentially, our traditional sweet potato casserole probably deserved a place on the dessert table- rich, decadent, creamy, sugary sweet with candied pecans to top it off.  She always received rave reviews!

Holidays without some treats wouldn’t be holidays, they would just feel like normal days.  But I think we can all agree that holidays with back-to-back days of overindulgence often leads to guilt and a thickening waistline.  

So, what’s the balance?!

Well, I am not sure it exists, at least not by definition.  But, I do believe that we can all navigate the holidays without experiencing guilt and shame about what we are eating and how we are living our days.  

Several years ago, I was asked to create a “holiday recipe” for a cooking demonstration we were doing for a local television segment along with 2 other Registered Dietitians.  It was this moment that I thought fondly of my aunt and how I could create a delicious sweet potato recipe that paid tribute to her decadent creation but lightened up.  

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans is my interpretation of a recipe redux.  In fact, this recipe is figure friendly enough for anyone’s dinner table throughout the year!  But, it certainly has the aroma of the holidays!  Warm cinnamon with a bit of chili powder and dash of heat from cayenne is a masterful spice blend that compliments the maple glazed sweet potatoes.  The pecan pieces get slightly candied as they cook and provide the perfect nutty crunch.

Traditions are sweet and sentimental, but if you are ready to shake it up, try out a different spin on sweet potatoes this year, this Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans doesn’t disappoint!  But let me warn you… your family might request this recipe year round because it is just that good!  Thankfully, it is as easy as it is delicious!

Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Pecans

Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
Print Recipe
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 3 medium sweet potatoes
  • 3 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1/2 cup pecans rough chopped
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/4 tsp kosher salt

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Line large baking sheet with non-stick foil and spray with oil (or use a Silpat Mat).
  • Chop sweet potatoes into bite size pieces about 1-inch cubes and place in large bowl. Stir in pecans, maple syrup, and spices into the bowl. Toss well to coat sweet potatoes and nuts.
  • Spread sweet potatoes and pecans on baking sheet. Make sure to use a spatula to scrape out all the maple syrup and nuts out of the bowl. 
  • Roast in the oven for 40-45 minutes, until the sweet potatoes are lightly golden brown on edges, stirring once halfway through. Serve warm.

Notes

You MUST use non-stick foil OR a non-stick silicone mat.  Greasing regular foil still leads to sticking- I learned the hard way.
Serving Ideas
While these sweet potatoes are the perfect holiday side dish, they are also super yummy on top of salad greens with a bit of goat cheese, chicken, and a balsamic dressing!
Nutrition Per Serving
Calories 176; Fat 7g; Saturated Fat 0.7g; Cholesterol 0mg; Sodium 82mg; Potassium 476mg; Carbohydrate 27g; Dietary Fiber 4g; Sugars 13g (Added Sugars 7g; Natural Sugars 6g); Protein 3g

Happy Holidays… year ‘round!

 

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Life
A Quick & Nourishing Skin Care Routine for the Busy Woman

“Healthy glow.”  That’s what every woman wants, right?  Skin that is supple and practically radiates beauty.  But most of us feel that image is almost impossible because we don’t have a spa budget, personal aesthetician, or even the slightest knowledge where to begin. Obtaining a natural glow is even more valuable than physical attractiveness.  Anyone can put on make-up, lashes, lip gloss, and bronzer, but when you “glow” you can walk with confidence regardless of what you are or are not wearing.

During both of my pregnancies, I was incredibly fortunate that my skin cleared and looked pretty amazing.  It was great!  Thank you pregnancy hormones!  But, it hasn’t always been that way.  As a teenager and young adult, I dealt with moderate acne and blemishes.  I longed to have a clear, radiant complexion and hated that I always had to go through the process of makeup to look and feel confident leaving my house.  

Products dermatologists prescribed never seemed to be effective and one prescription actually caused dark, bruise-looking spots on the shins of my legs!   While my skin gradually improved during my 20’s, I never really knew how to effectively treat my skin type.  

As I neared age 30, I began realizing that even though I was not dealing with a significant amount of acne, I still wasn’t thrilled with my complexion.  To be honest, I didn’t have any type of skin care routine and I wasn’t really interested in visiting a cosmetic counter only to be pressured and persuaded to buy hundreds of dollars of skincare products that “I needed.”

Head down.  Don’t make eye contact. Get in and get out.  That tends to be how I shop when in those stores with “vultures” waiting to lure you in…

This year my husband blessed me with a treat I have wanted for years but never splurged on before- a set of 3 facials including microdermabrasion.  Similar to a massage, it is a luxurious hour where someone is totally focused on you, your skin and giving you the ultimate treat!  Not only has my Aesthetician, Courtney Waller pampered me, but she has been an excellent resource regarding an easy skincare routine.  

Courtney decided to pursue aesthetics after having her own personal challenges with acne during her 20’s.  She ‘operates with a passion to make you feel confident in yourself.’  Her philosophy is “less is more” which I adore- fewer products with simple ingredients.  She has inspired me to actually begin a “skincare routine” that will help me continue this ‘glow’ that makes me feel great AND prevent early aging of the skin.

Regardless of your age or skin history, you can take some proactive steps to nourish and care for your skin to boost your confidence and self-esteem.  In an air-brushed culture, I love the quote by Anonymous,

“I’m not beautiful like you.  I’m beautiful like me.”  

Own it, girl!  

Today, Courtney is sharing a quick and budget-friendly skincare routine for you- the busy woman…

QUICK & EASY SKINCARE ROUTINE

Step #1: Cleanse

The all natural oil cleansing method is great for every skin type. I recommend using jojoba oil which is very similar to same oil our bodies create or a mix of 50% castor oil and 50 % extra virgin olive oil.

Directions: Pour a quarter size amount of the oil into the palm of your hand, rub your hands together to warm the oil and smooth it over your face (this should be done with dry hands on a dry face).

Begin massaging the oil onto your face, this will break up and remove dirt, makeup, and other impurities. (Take your time during this step and release some of the tension in your face, take some deep breaths and relax, give yourself a few minutes to massage your face)

Once your pores are saturated cover your face with a warm wet cloth, press the cloth gently on your face until the cloth cools, and then gently wipe away any remaining residue.

 

Step #2: Tone

Toning is an important step in a skincare routine. Toning ensures all dirt and debris are removed from your pores while restoring your skin’s PH balance. I recommend toning with witch hazel or rose water. Witch hazel is better for acneic and combination skin while rose water is best for mature, dry, and sensitive skin.

Directions: Saturate a cotton round with your toner of choice and apply to face (do not rinse afterward).  

 

Step #3: Treat

Apply a serum targeted to your skin’s specific needs. I recommend using a Vitamin C serum. It is safe and effective for all skin types. Vitamin C is packed with antioxidants that even out your skin tone, shield your skin from the environment, improve hydration, promote collagen production, reduce under-eye circles, and the list could go on and on. Vitamin C is completely natural and is not packed with chemicals or questionable ingredients. It is simple but very effective. I recommend the Vitamin C serum from Rahda Beauty. It is of great quality but with an affordable price tag.

Directions: Apply a small amount of the serum onto the tips of your fingers and press into your skin. It is important to press into your skin rather than rub so it’s getting deeper into your pores and you’re getting the maximum benefits. Give your skin a few minutes to fully absorb the product before moving to the next step.

 

Step #4: Moisturize

All skin types need a moisturizer even those of oily skin. A lot of people who struggle with oily skin are scared of moisturizers or think they do not need one but actually, the opposite is true. When our skin lacks the oil it needs, it produces more oil which can encourage an unwanted breakout, so the goal is to keep your skin balanced by moisturizing daily.

I recommend using a base oil of argan oil which is safe for all skin types and then adding an additional “power” oil targeted for your specific skin type.

Power oils: Tamanu oil is used to treat acneic skin, rosehip oil is great for aging skin, while emu oil is recommended for sensitive/dry skin.  

Directions: Dispense 1 to 2 drops of argan oil with 1-2 drops of your power oil into the palm of your hand and press into clean skin

What are realistic cost expectations to start this skincare routine?

This specific regimen has a start-up cost of roughly $40 and should generally last you around two months or longer, which makes this regimen approximately $20 per month. This is is a small price to pay for naturally glowing skin and a boost in confidence!

 

Are there any ingredients to avoid?

I would recommend avoiding parabens, fragrance, and believe it or not formaldehyde. Always take a little bit of extra time to read the ingredients list. Skin is the largest organ in the body and the products we apply to our skin go directly into our bloodstream, so it’s important to look at the ingredients in your skincare products to see what you are essentially putting into your body.

 

What realistic expectations should we have when beginning a new skincare routine?  How long might it take before we begin “seeing” results?

It really depends on what you have done for your skin up to this point and what your skin is accustomed to. If you haven’t been dedicated to an everyday routine until now, you will see results immediately. You will feel like your skin just received a much-needed detox. After a week’s worth of letting the Vitamin C serum do its magic overnight, you will begin to see a remarkable difference in the appearance and texture of your skin.

 

If I am already using a skincare line or following a skincare regimen, should I stop?

If your skin care routine is giving you the results you long for and is within in your budget, by all means, keep it up!  I never stir my clients away from something that works for them. As the old saying goes “if it isn’t broke, no need to fix it.”

 

My skin is exceptionally oily- any tips?

I highly recommend avoiding coconut oil. Coconut oil is great for the skin, but not for us oily folks. I say “us” because I myself am part of the oily skin club. I would also recommend rice paper oil blotting sheets to use throughout the day to keep the shine at bay.

 

My skin is always dry- recommendations?

When you have dry skin, it is best to avoid long, hot showers or baths which can strip your skin even more of its natural oils. Also, it is very important to be consistent with a moisturizer, so it can do its job of locking in the moisturize your skin longs for.

When should I consider working with an aesthetician?  What goals can they help me achieve?

If you are not happy with the way your skin looks or you want to prevent future skin complications, it is time to see an aesthetician. Aestheticians are like personal trainers for your skin. We are highly trained to assess your skin and craft a program for you that will include professional in-office treatments and a home care regimen designed specifically for you.

 

What is the best way to find a quality aesthetician?

The best way to find a good aesthetician is by word of mouth or reputation.  Ask your friends, neighbors, or coworkers if there is a therapist they would recommend in your area. Even with the rise of social media many of my clients are referral based through an existing client sharing their experience they had with me. I would also advise upon finding an aesthetician, scheduling a consultation beforehand to see if she or he is the right choice for you and to go over a treatment plan.

 

What are 2 things that women do that can harm their skin or accelerate aging or make it look worse?

The harmful sun rays and diet can accelerate aging at a rapid pace. Sun exposure can cause up to 90% of the visible changes attributed to aging skin, not to mention increasing your chance of developing skin cancer. I recommend using at least a 30 SPF sunscreen daily, even when the sun isn’t totally visible, it’s vital in keeping a youthful look! In addition, excessive intake of pasteurized dairy and refined sugar can take a toll on your skin as well. We are what eat and a healthy diet will reveal healthy skin!

 

If a woman is feeling frustrated with how her skin looks and feels, how would you encourage her?

If you are ashamed of your skin, you are not alone! Most of the time the truth is the criticism we feel is created from within us. We have to learn self-acceptance and choose to compliment ourselves rather than criticize ourselves. Look in the mirror and point out positive things about yourself, it doesn’t have to be skin related. You can look at yourself in the mirror and say “This shirt looks good on me” or “I am having a good hair day”, doing these things little by little begin to lift us up and boost our confidence.

On the other hand, if you are at the point where you need or want help with your skin, I highly recommend seeing an aesthetician. I say this from my own personal experience with my skin. When I was struggling with cystic acne, I reached out to an aesthetician for help. She gave me my confidence back through the treatments I received and her professional recommendations.

My experience with her led me to pursue getting my aesthetics license and directed to the path I am on today. I wanted to do for others what she had done for me. I longed to help others love the skin they are in and I am so immeasurably blessed to be able to help others do just that!

Confidence is the ability to feel beautiful, without needing someone to tell you. –Mandy Hale

Taking just a few minutes each morning to care for the only skin you will ever have can boost your confidence and self-esteem exponentially.  YOU CAN achieve a healthy glow and it doesn’t take expensive products, endless spa treatments and a ridiculous amount of time.  

 

COURTNEY WALLER

As a licensed aesthetician, Courtney operates with a passion to make you feel confident in yourself. Realizing through her own struggles with her skin that the outward appearance of acne, blemishes, and other maladies seriously affects not only one’s confidence but also their self-esteem. She strives to make you look and feel your best! She once read, “You’re going to be in your own skin until you die. That’s a while. You might as well get comfortable in it” and she thrives to help others do just that!  Find out more information about Courtney & Natural Glow Skincare on her website, connect with her on Facebook and email her to speak at your next event!

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Recipes
Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower

The most popular and widely consumed “vegetable” among Americans is the potato.  While it contains 70% of your daily Vitamin C needs along with 25%+ potassium and B-6 and a nice boost of fiber, let’s be honest and admit that most people are not eating the whole potato, skin and all.  

Research shows that most Americans don’t consume the recommended 2-3 cups of veggies per day.  We know that veggies (and fruit) contain a wealth of anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting, and health-promoting nutrients, but we must include a variety of colors and types in order to fully benefit.  While there are hundreds of types of veggies, many of us eat the same ones each week.  In order to step outside of the box and add variety, I believe that we have to make veggie dishes that are irresistible… like this recipe, Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower.

The cruciferous veggie, cauliflower, is packed with nutrition.  Don’t let its white color fool you!  Even “white foods,” specifically, white vegetables, are good for you!  A 1 cup serving of cauliflower contains less than 30 calories and about ¾ of your daily needs for vitamin C.  But it is the aromatic sulfur compounds (glucosinolates) combined with antioxidants (like Vitamin C) that make it a superfood.  Your digestive, immune, cardiovascular and inflammatory systems all appear to benefit from regular intake of cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower.

Pizza crust, bread, “rice,” soup, “steak,” sauce, casserole, pie… cauliflower creativity knows no end! But today, I want to show you simple, scrumptious, creamy and definitely Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower.  This recipe is big on flavor but also has 150% of your daily Vitamin C needs, 20% calcium and B6 and a pretty surprising amount of fiber and protein.

Many years ago, I wondered if my husband would ever step outside his comfort zone and try some different vegetables.  As you may have read in my Living With A Picky Eater Series, developing a taste for veggies has been a slow process for my husband.  Creamy Mashed Cauliflower was one of the recipes I perfected and he truly adores now.  If like me, you need some encouragement and strategies maneuvering through mealtime with a “selective eater,” you can find solutions and perspective in my articles,

Part 1: A Story of Hope

Part 2: Sanity Saving Strategies

Part 3: Another Angle

Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower is reminiscent of creamy loaded mashed potatoes and I bet some individuals would even be fooled if you didn’t tell. Although, I don’t advocate “sneaking veggies.”  If you want a slower transition to this all-veggie dish, follow my instructions here and use half cauliflower and half potatoes.  The secret to a creamy consistency is to use a food processor to remove all lumps.  This dramatically improves the texture and mouth-feel for the skeptics.

Casseroles are not trendy or sexy but they are what we take to the

  • family holiday gathering
  • new mommy of a newborn
  • Co-worker group lunch
  • church potluck

When looking through your cookbook collection for a killer recipe that will receive rave reviews, I guarantee this one will do it!  This Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower will become the star of your holiday table OR dinner table… the one that is requested again and again!

Enjoy!

Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower

Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD
Print Recipe
Servings 6

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium heads cauliflower 5-6” diameter
  • ½ cup 2% plain greek yogurt OR reduced fat sour cream
  • 1 ½ tablespoons unsalted butter
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • 2-3 tablespoons sliced green onions green parts only
  • 4 oz 2% milk sharp cheddar cheese shredded & divided in half

Instructions
 

  • Steam cauliflower until very tender. Once cooked, add cauliflower, butter, salt, and pepper to food processor and puree until smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper, if needed. 
  • Transfer to a medium bowl. Stir in greek yogurt (or sour cream), 1/2 of cheese and 1-2 tablespoon of green onion. 
  • Preheat broiler. Grease a 9x9 baking dish (I use a Misto). Pour mixture into the greased baking dish and top with remaining cheese and green onion. Broil for 5-8 minutes or until top is bubbly and lightly brown. Serve warm.

Notes

A food processor, while not absolutely necessary, is the best way to get smooth, creamy and 'dreamy' mashed cauliflower!!  An immersion blender or potato masher can be used, but will produce a lumpy final product.
Any type of butter spread can be used in place of butter.  However, note that the sodium (and saturated fat) may change depending on what substitute you use.
Nutrition Per Serving
Calories 149; Total Fat 8g; Saturated Fat 5g; Cholesterol 22mg; Sodium 385mg; Carbohydrate 11g; Fiber 5g; Sugar 5g; Protein 11g

Cheesy Loaded Mashed Cauliflower is anything but boring!  Give it a try, get the family to rate it and I bet you will add 1 more veggie recipe to your arsenal.

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Health
What to Do With All the Candy!?

While the ultimate candy holiday has passed, it has probably left you a sweet and horrible gift… a stash of way too many confectionary treats!  Maybe you were “the one” who gave out “healthier” treats this year, like my friend Josten Fish recommends in her article, 10 Halloween Treats That Aren’t Candy.  But even so, that doesn’t keep your kitchen candy free.  So, the dilemma presents… What to do with all the candy?

Growing up we had a dear family friend who was known for her irresistible Candy Bar Cake.  It was a moist and spongy chocolate cake topped with a delightful whipped cream frosting and little bits of sweet, chewy candy bars all throughout the cake and icing.  As tasty as it was, that is not what I am recommending today.  I realize you don’t need me to talk about all the added sugar sitting in tightly sealed wrappers on your countertops OR provide the guidelines for sugar in your diet.  You already know that!

But, I do want to share a few creative ideas for what to do with all the tempting sweets stashed, maybe even overflowing, in your pantry.

 

01. DONATE

Overseas

There are thousands of soldiers and underprivileged kids overseas who would be thrilled to receive a care package with a few sweet treats. After sorting through the candy with your kids and having them choose which treats they want to keep and which ones to give away, create a donation box with the extra, unopened candy.  There are several organizations who will collect your candy for care packages and then ship overseas.  You could also consider adding in a toothbrush and toothpaste as well!

This is the perfect time to create a family event or even establish a family tradition to bless those overseas who need a smile.  Check out these organizations for information on where to take your candy and for deadlines.

Local

Surrounding churches and missions organizations may also be interested in collecting candy for upcoming mission trips to underprivileged areas.  In addition, food banks, shelters, or soup kitchens may be able to accept candy as well.  Many kids in shelters are not able to go trick-or-treating but a simple donation could be a meaningful sweet treat.  Check with your local organizations to see if they are gathering candy.

 

02. SWITCH WITCH

If mommies and daddies are interested in using a fun game to help their kids purge their stash of candy, Switch Witch may be the perfect solution.  Switch Witch comes to visit for a few days before Halloween and then that night, if left some candy, Switch Witch will swap it for a fun new toy or gadget.  The mommies and daddies can choose to dispose of the candy as they wish and the kids get the surprise of a fun gift.

Switch Witch can be purchased to become a fall decoration in your home OR you can find a representative witch at a local decor or craft store to play the part.  If you aren’t into witches, consider using this concept to create your own candy swap.  Maybe the Tooth Fairy comes to remove some of the candy and replaces it with money or a small gift.  Why not have a “Scarecrow Swap” or use some other fall character to collect candy for a small trinket in return?

 

03. DECORATE

Who says candy has to be eaten?!  Why not decorate with it?  Yes, if it is visible it may be more tempting to eat.  BUT, if it is stuck together with glue, it won’t be as appetizing.  Check out Pinterest for hundreds of ideas but these are a few to get your creative juices flowing:

All of these can be sealed at the end with a clear acrylic to help them stay beautiful and keep longer. Turn this into a fun and festive art event before the holidays get going full force!

Halloween and holidays that are candy-laden are awesome times to sit down with your kids and talk about enjoying treats and how your family chooses to define “moderation.”  Have them set boundaries with you identifying how frequently they can have a piece and how much is available in one sitting or one day.  Maybe have them write these simple guidelines down so that everyone can be reminded if someone “forgets.”

Each child can place their candy in a plastic bag with their name on it and store in the pantry. Remember, out of sight, out of mind, so consider where and how high you want to place the bags of candy depending on the boundaries you set.

This is not about setting candy rules, which sound restrictive and unfun.  Turn this chat into a fruitful discussion about how we care for our bodies AND enjoy occasional treats.  If needed, use the traffic light to explain different kinds of foods and how often we eat them: Go (green), Slow/Sometimes (yellow), Whoa/Infrequent (red).  And, don’t forget to mention the importance of taking care of our teeth to prevent cavities!

Rules and restrictions don’t teach our kids about how to make decisions that care for their bodies but neither does free reign to the candy cache.  Have some short but intentional conversations with your kids.  Enjoy some sweet treats- it’s okay!  And choose a clever but effective plan to uphold your family’s health values.

 

TRUTH:  For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.  –Galatians 5:13

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links.  If you purchase a product through this link, your cost will be the same but Healthy Inspiration will receive a small commission to help with the operating costs of this blog.  Thank you for your support!

EDITOR’S NOTE: The article was originally posted in November 2016 and updated in November 2017 for accuracy.

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Life
Special Treasures

On Thursday, November 26 at 3:33pm, our family welcomed Madelyn Joy Hunt!  We are filled with excitement and awe at the sweetness of our little girl and the goodness of God.  Big sister McKaela is so tender and loving and taking on her role with pride.  Thank you all for celebrating with us!

For the LORD has chosen [you] for himself, for his own special treasure. –Psalm 135:4 (NLT, revised)

Love, Jennifer

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Faith Life
Confidence or Community- Are You Seeking the Right One?

Dull, drab, unfashionable, that’s exactly how I felt only a couple of years ago.  After having a baby, moving to a new city and leaving a career, I felt a little lost. The identity I thought I knew was no longer and I found myself self-conscious and uncertain.  It is during these seasons that it is so easy for the comparison trap to hook us.  

Looking around, seeing the appearance of confidence, talking with women who are passionately pursuing their purpose, scanning stylish women who appear to have it “all” together, it is tough to regain identity and courage.  

Self-confidence is preached, but I am not sure that is exactly what we need.  God-confidence, an innate understanding of who made us, who we belong to and the One who calls us Beloved- that’s what we long for.  He knitted us together and knows our every insecurity.  But, He also called us to walk together as one body, beautifully designed and deliberately crafted to complement each other in a work of art that proclaims His glory.  

My friend, Marsha Apsley, recently published, “40 Days of Faith and Fitness:  A Devotional Journal” for women to inspire and encourage them as they seek identity and freedom.  The excerpt she shares today is all about becoming… The journey isn’t black and white, good or bad, up or down, it’s a process of yielding every day and trusting the heart of God is FOR YOU.  Be encouraged as Marsha shares from her heart and inspires you to become all that God has purposed for you!

 

Excerpt from “40 Days of Faith and Fitness:  A Devotional Journal”

“We are carefully joined together in Him, becoming a holy temple for the Lord.”  Ephesians 2:21

There are several references in scripture of how we are a temple…..our bodies are a temple or the temple of the Lord.  We see temple referenced here yet again. But for this verse, I want to focus on the first part “we are carefully joined together”.

I love women!  I love the community of women.  I love going on bike rides with my “girlfriends” and studying the Bible in all women’s Bible study.  I love to call myself a woman.  And yet competition and comparison can rear its ugly head among women.  I know firsthand!  

I remember growing up and constantly comparing myself to other girls, sometimes even my closest friends.  And while they were my friends, this comparison would give me this sense of competition.  I wanted to be prettier and more liked than she.  I wanted a boy to pick me over her.  

And even as women, let’s be honest, we’ll size ourselves up with other women.  How many times have you been out, possibly already feeling self-conscious for one reason or another, and then someone walks into the restaurant and you begin the comparisons in your mind?  

I’m raising my hand.  I’ve done it.  It could be a stranger or it could be a close friend.  

But here’s the thing, we’re in this together!  We’re all part of this life together.  If the Lord lives in your heart as He does mine, we’re sisters in Christ.  We can’t let this comparison and competition take over.  We’re supposed to be lifting one another up and encouraging each other.  

I used to think that if I complimented someone then I was in turn putting myself down.  Or if my friend had success in some area, be it a job or weight loss or whatever, it meant failure for me.  

That is so not right!  How is it that we come to think this way?  

As the verse says “we”, we, you and me, sister, we’re joined together.  We’re in this together.  And we’re all a temple of the Lord.

Prayer:  Dear God, please remove any spirit of comparison or competition from my heart.  I want to be supportive of the beautiful women around me.  Thank you for making me a woman.  Help me to encourage the community of women and help us to be confident in the unique way that you have made each of us.  In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Action Step:  Give a genuine compliment to a female friend or stranger today.  

Marsha Apsley, M.S, LMHC, is a counselor and is passionate about helping women live fit and free. She does this by focusing on whole person health and wellness with an emphasis on how women feel about themselves.  She believes that a healthy lifestyle needs to be built on a firm foundation of faith. Marsha recently published “40 Days of Faith and Fitness:  A Devotional Journal”.  It is available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle.  Connect with Marsha and find out more about her services on her website. Find her on Facebook and join her free Faith & Fitness with Marsha Group .  She is also on Pinterest, Twitter and Instagram @marshaapsley. 

 

DISCLOSURE: This post contains an affiliate link.  If you purchase a product through this link, your cost will be the same but Healthy Inspiration will receive a small commission to help with the operating costs of this blog.  Thank you for your support!

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