Monday, December 31, 2018
Saturday, December 29, 2018
Steve Shirley's view on reading horoscopes.
Horoscopes and astrology have been around since early Old Testament times. Today, they are more popular than ever (almost everyone knows their horoscope sign), being found in daily newspapers, magazines, online, and even on Facebook. They are read by millions, including the rich and famous (actors, politicians, sports stars), the not so famous, and even many Christians. Some people even go so far as to plan their lives around what their horoscope says (i.e. financial decisions, who they date or marry, when to go on vacation, etc...). What does the Bible say about this? Should we be reading our horoscope?
Webster's Dictionary defines a horoscope as: "a diagram of the relative positions of planets and signs of the zodiac at a specific time (as at one's birth) for use by astrologers in inferring individual character and personality traits and in foretelling event's of a person's life." While the Bible does not use the word "horoscope," it does speak very clearly about those who seek to "divine the future" or "foretell the events of a person's life" (fortune telling). Words used are: "divination," "an observer of times," "soothsayer," and "enchanter." God warns His people not to practice this (Lev 19:26), nor listen to it (Jer 27:9)(Jer 29:8). It is "evil" (2 Kin 17:17)(2 Kin 21:6)(2 Chr 33:6) and "an abomination" (Deut 18:12). It is associated with evil spirits (Acts 16:16).
(Isa 47:13-14) says "the fire shall burn ... the astrologers, those who prophesy by the stars, those who predict by the new moons..."
Saul was removed from being king in part because "he asked counsel of a medium" (1 Chr 10:13-14).
In the book of Daniel, God worked through Daniel three times (twice to interpret dreams, once to interpret handwriting) to show the powerlessness of the king's astrologers (Dan 2)(Dan 4:4-27)(Dan 5:5-30). (See specifically what Daniel says in Dan 2:27-28) In (Dan 1:20), it says that King Nebuchadnezzar found the "wisdom and understanding" of Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah (better known by their Babylonian names: Shadrach, Meshach, and Abed-Nego) "10 times better than all of the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm."
Astrology and horoscopes have their roots in paganism and the worship of the sun, moon, and stars as gods. It is taking objects which the one true God of the Bible created, and giving them power that belongs ONLY to Him. This is idolatry, blasphemy, and sin. (See Ezek 21:21 for a few other ways that pagans sought to "divine the future.")
Now, I realize that many of you may be saying that reading horoscopes is just "harmless fun." I must disagree. Horoscopes prey on people's weaknesses and vulnerabilities. They give false hope to those who those who have little hope (much like false prophets did in the Bible). They forecast a future that is NOT from God. They do this by making statements with sweeping generalizations, that can apply to almost anyone. For example:
"Life has been difficult for you lately but things will likely improve very soon."
"There may be some traveling in your near future, so be prepared."
"You are a very kind person, but sometimes you feel like people take advantage of that."
"You tend to be worried about your finances."
"Brace yourself for some very surprising news you are about to receive."
"You like to spend time with people, but sometimes you also need your alone time."
Have I just described you? I am guessing you are saying "yes!" Of course, these statements can apply to almost anyone. These generalizations even have a name called "the Forer effect."
So, where is the danger? When enough of these "generalizations" start to fit with some people's lives, they begin to believe them, and thereby give them power. "My horoscope said I might soon get a raise at work, and I got one!" "My horoscope said a baby might be in my future, and now I am pregnant!" (Notice the word "might.") Of course, of all the people who read horoscopes, a few are going to get a raise or become pregnant. Then, a few of these people are going to be "hooked," and think "Wow, they were right, maybe I better pay more attention to these horoscopes." Soon, they start to change their lives based on what it says. This is not "harmless."
As we showed above, the Bible is quite clear that God calls those who practice astrology and horoscopes "evil" and "an abomination." Can you really believe that God approves of checking your horoscope to "guide your life," or just "for fun?"
P.S. I place horoscopes in the same category as other dangerous things that Christians should avoid that we have discussed previously on this site like dreamcatchers, yoga, amulets, tarot cards, crystals, Ouija boards, a talisman.
Friday, December 28, 2018
Thursday, December 27, 2018
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
The Health Benefits of Tiger Nut (Ofio)
Cyperus esculentus which can simply be called “tiger nut” is one of nature's super foods, they are not necessarily nuts but they are tubers that generate beneath the soil’s surface. Tiger nuts have a high nutritional value and they are also enriched in fibre.
They serve as a good resistance for starch, help prevent cardiovascular diseases and most importantly improve blood circulation.
Tiger nuts from time past have been sidelined, little or no attention has been given to this tuber, as this tuber contains so much nutrients and elements which can ensure a healthy life.
In some regions it is popularly called “Ofio”, “Aya” or “Chufas”, it can be eaten either fresh or dried. The juice content can also be extracted as milk and served as a drink.
Here is an easy step to extract its milk; Firstly you would be required to soak the dried tiger nut in enough water and to avoid any form of fermentation, you can place it in the refrigerator.
• Once ready, wash the already soaked nuts and remove the bad ones should the need arise.
• Place the nuts in a blender, to ensure that your blades work efficiently put enough water. • It is optional** to add other flavors E.g coconut, ginger etc.
• To strain the blended nuts, use a chiffon piece.
• Press and squeeze the chiffon piece together to extract the milk.
• You can add the shaft back in the blender with your desired amount of water then blend.
• (Repeat process of extraction).
Health benefits
- Tiger nut is a very rich source of dietary fiber.
- Milk derived from Tiger nut is a healthy alternative for cow milk which contains lactose intolerance.
- Tiger nuts are rich in potassium, this ensures maintaining proper regulation of muscle contraction, digestive functions and to control the blood pressure levels.
- Tiger nuts contain a reasonable amount of oleic acid, this helps increase your body HDL cholesterol.
- Tiger nut milk is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids which make it an excellent anti-diabetic agent as monounsaturated fatty acids boosts glycemic tolerance.
- Tiger nuts are used to treat stomach upsets, irritable bowels, and other digestive issues.
Afore mentioned are a few, as there are still other remarkable benefits of the Tiger nut.
Tiger nuts are whole foods and the inclusion in your regular diet is sure to help you stay healthy and fit. Get started now and see how your health gets even better!
The Mackerel Fish
The Mackerel fish which is commonly known as the Titus fish in Nigeria can easily be identified with its unique vertical stripes on its back and deeply forked tail.
Mackerel is also known as maccarello, it is an important seafood fish which is consumed worldwide.
For a healthy diet, it is highly recommended, it is an oily fish which contains a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.
This seafood has several nutritional values which are beneficial to our health.
- Omega 3/Omega -6 Fatty Acid: This is derived when the fish is consumed in large quantity. It prevents breast, prostrate, renal and colon cancers. It has also been established that marine fatty acids hinder the rapid growth of breast cancer cells, which in turn reduces the risk of cancer. The Omega 3 composition helps fortify the immune system and serves as an agent to manage arthritis.
The high concentrations of Omega-3 fatty acids are found in the brain. They enhance memory and performance and also prevent the risk of Alzheimer's disease (a neurological disorder in which the death of brain cells causes memory loss and cognitive decline).
- Coenzyme Q10: It serves as an antioxidant that helps eradicate cancerous agents from afflicted cells and improves cellular health.
- It contains good amounts of vitamins B12 and selenium, which have been found helpful in the treatment of cancer.
- Cardiovascular function: It improves the condition of the hearts blood flow and lowers the blood pressure.
- It is rich in calcium, the content helps normalize heartbeat and regulate blood pressure. As a recommendation, to reduce the risk of heart disease, two servings of oily fish should be included in the diet each week.
The Titus Fish, remains one of the most nutritious and affordable seafood. So asides adding the mackerel to your regular stew or soup, you may try out a new recipe; Grilled fillets, Baked with some tasty potatoes or even boiled to add to your homemade salad or burger.
Make the decision to add the Titus fish to your diet today, for your quick and convenient delivery Konga Daily has got you covered
Sunday, December 23, 2018
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Let's interact!
Have you ever experienced any such thing as sexual harassment in any marketplace in your country? If yes,how did you handle it? Feel free to share with me and every other reader on this blog.
Tuesday, December 18, 2018
Monday, December 17, 2018
BRING IT ON: ONE OF THE HIGHPOINTS OF MY 2018
It is with all sense of joy and satisfaction that I say to you,"Bring on the bicycle, I am now a rider!" Sounds uninteresting right?
As a toddler I already had keen interest in bicycles hoping to ride on one someday. A neighbor next door who had a bicycle occasionally did place me on it while he would ride a short distance to make me feel happy. This desire kept growing gradually. Then can a breakthrough.
One sunny afternoon, I was led to pray and I did it with all seriousness not knowing what would follow thereafter. Just then, my dad walked in from the day's hustle with a package; I couldn't believe my eyes, it was a brand new kids' tricycle. I and my sibling were so excited. My dad assembled the toy and we rode on it with pomp and pride every other day. Years rolled by, our interest in the toy waned and somehow Dad discarded it; the toy had served us so well.
I didn't get the opportunity to set my foot on a pedal until my fourth year in the university. I and my school mates were posted to a rural community in Southwest Nigeria to practise crop production within a period of three months. A young boy rode on a rickety bicycle into the compound where we were living; one of us requested to take a ride of which the boy obliged. I was moved within me; I wanted to also give a try. Then I took a bold step. I was given the bicycle and I mounted on it with excitement. Gosh! I just could not get a good grip on the pedal, my hands were shaky and the bicycle kept staggering. I was disappointed but didn't let go of my dream.
The phase of my life that broke this jinx surfaced in October, 2018, barely a month after I joined the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). Settling down to adapt to the rural community where I was posted to was no big deal, having lived in a rural setting previously. The greenery, the serenity of the environment, the presence of portable water, stable electricity and lively group of corp members made me feel comfortable.
I was lucky to meet neighbors who had bicycles and were willing to train me on the skill. As it happened years back, I initially had difficulty riding the bicycle but like a popular Nigerian ex-footballer once said,"I was determined never to give up". I also had neighbors who encouraged me as I tried to ride. I would imagine myself riding along the street and I made sure thus imagination turned reality. Finally it did! Just a little push from a neighbor and zoom! Off I rode like a bird released from a cage. It was an amazing experience.
This is one of my high points in the year 2018. I believe you've picked some positives from this piece of mine. See you in 2019!
Sunday, December 16, 2018
Saturday, December 15, 2018
Friday, December 14, 2018
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
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