Wednesday, April 18, 2012
Volunteers
Volunteers are the backbone of a church, especially here at Fellowship of the Nations! We thrive when our members are plugged into the body by being the arms and feet. Become a volunteer today by contacting us at 713-637-7500 or joining at the connect office on Wednesday nights or Sunday mornings. We love you all!
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 19
Today's daily devotional comes from 1 Samuel 22.
David and Abiathar were Saul’s next target. While it would have made more sense for David to send Abiathar away, he instead drew him in and offered his protection. David took a risk to keep Abiathar safe. David acted in a lot of ways like Jesus - not turning a blind eye to someone in need, even amidst trials
of his own.
No matter what the situation, when it seems all hope is lost Jesus’ response is the same: draw closer to Him. He will offer His unmatched and perfect protection every time.
“God, I pray that You strengthen my resolve to put my entire trust in You, knowing You will always protect me from harm. Help me to never turn away from other people in need just because I may be going through difficulty myself. Amen.”
Bean Curry and Rice
This is an easy recipe and you can adjust the spices to your liking. You might also consider adding mushroom, carrots or other vegetables.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large white onion, chopped
1/2 cup dry lentils
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounce)
1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounce)
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (8 ounce)
1/2 cup raisins
salt and pepper to taste
8 cups cooked brown rice
Preparation:
1. Prepare the brown rice according to package directions so you have enough for 8 servings.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat, and cook the onion until tender.
3. Mix in the lentils and garlic, and season with curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomatoes, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and raisins. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low, and simmer at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Yield: eight servings
David and Abiathar were Saul’s next target. While it would have made more sense for David to send Abiathar away, he instead drew him in and offered his protection. David took a risk to keep Abiathar safe. David acted in a lot of ways like Jesus - not turning a blind eye to someone in need, even amidst trials
of his own.
No matter what the situation, when it seems all hope is lost Jesus’ response is the same: draw closer to Him. He will offer His unmatched and perfect protection every time.
“God, I pray that You strengthen my resolve to put my entire trust in You, knowing You will always protect me from harm. Help me to never turn away from other people in need just because I may be going through difficulty myself. Amen.”
Bean Curry and Rice
This is an easy recipe and you can adjust the spices to your liking. You might also consider adding mushroom, carrots or other vegetables.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large white onion, chopped
1/2 cup dry lentils
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 pinch cayenne pepper
1 can crushed tomatoes (28 ounce)
1 can garbanzo beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounce)
1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed (8 ounce)
1/2 cup raisins
salt and pepper to taste
8 cups cooked brown rice
Preparation:
1. Prepare the brown rice according to package directions so you have enough for 8 servings.
2. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat, and cook the onion until tender.
3. Mix in the lentils and garlic, and season with curry powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Cook and stir 2 minutes.
4. Stir in the tomatoes, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, and raisins. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low, and simmer at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Yield: eight servings
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 18
Today's daily devotional comes from 1 Samuel 21.
David is running from Saul and for a moment, is overcome by fear. At this low point in his life, he acts like a crazy man before the king of Gath. David was beyond the point of simply experiencing fear. He let fear control him.
Any one of us can be subject to fear when we are tired, hurt, or emotionally low. In order to ensure we don’t start doing wrong things and going places we should avoid, we must remain deeply connected to God. His love will cast out any fear, no matter how great.
“Father, help us manage our lives to stay healthy - in body, soul, and spirit. Please fill us with Your spirit and give us boldness of faith in place of fear. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Stir Fry Vegetables with Brown Rice from http://daniel-fast.com/DanielFastMainCourses.pdf
You will end up having a couple meals that you really enjoy and you will make over and over again during your fast. This recipe will likely be one of them! Not only is it very appetizing in its colorful presentation, but it is filling and tasty. Change the recipe to your own liking and with what you have available, but don’t skimp on the vegetables as that’s what makes this recipe unique and satisfying.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 green onions, finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
½ pound fresh green beans, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced on diagonal
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups greens, chopped (kale, bok choy, spinach, collards, etc)
1 can sliced water chestnuts, drained
3 cups cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 ½ cups peas (if frozen run under water to thaw)
½ cup toasted sliced almonds
Preparation:
1. Heat a deep skillet or wok over medium heat for about 1 minute. Add oil and heat for 1 minute.
2. Add green onions and ginger. Sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, green beans, carrots, and garlic. Stir fry for 8-10 minutes.
4. Add greens and toss for about 2 minutes or until greens are wilted.
5. Stir in water chestnuts, brown rice, soy sauce, peas and almonds.
6. Serve as complete meal.
Yield: four servings
Tip: Serve this dish as a complete main dish along with a side of sliced fruit such as oranges, pineapple or mango. This is also a great recipe to double and then use the leftovers for lunch. Merely heat in the microwave or eat at room temperature.
David is running from Saul and for a moment, is overcome by fear. At this low point in his life, he acts like a crazy man before the king of Gath. David was beyond the point of simply experiencing fear. He let fear control him.
Any one of us can be subject to fear when we are tired, hurt, or emotionally low. In order to ensure we don’t start doing wrong things and going places we should avoid, we must remain deeply connected to God. His love will cast out any fear, no matter how great.
“Father, help us manage our lives to stay healthy - in body, soul, and spirit. Please fill us with Your spirit and give us boldness of faith in place of fear. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Stir Fry Vegetables with Brown Rice from http://daniel-fast.com/DanielFastMainCourses.pdf
You will end up having a couple meals that you really enjoy and you will make over and over again during your fast. This recipe will likely be one of them! Not only is it very appetizing in its colorful presentation, but it is filling and tasty. Change the recipe to your own liking and with what you have available, but don’t skimp on the vegetables as that’s what makes this recipe unique and satisfying.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon sesame oil
3 green onions, finely chopped
3 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced
4 cups fresh broccoli, chopped
½ pound fresh green beans, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and sliced on diagonal
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups greens, chopped (kale, bok choy, spinach, collards, etc)
1 can sliced water chestnuts, drained
3 cups cooked brown rice
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 ½ cups peas (if frozen run under water to thaw)
½ cup toasted sliced almonds
Preparation:
1. Heat a deep skillet or wok over medium heat for about 1 minute. Add oil and heat for 1 minute.
2. Add green onions and ginger. Sauté for 5 minutes.
3. Add broccoli, green beans, carrots, and garlic. Stir fry for 8-10 minutes.
4. Add greens and toss for about 2 minutes or until greens are wilted.
5. Stir in water chestnuts, brown rice, soy sauce, peas and almonds.
6. Serve as complete meal.
Yield: four servings
Tip: Serve this dish as a complete main dish along with a side of sliced fruit such as oranges, pineapple or mango. This is also a great recipe to double and then use the leftovers for lunch. Merely heat in the microwave or eat at room temperature.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 17
Today's daily devotional comes from Mark 8.
Jesus was clearly a man of power and action, not just words. The miracles he performed came from a motivation of love and a desire to draw people to God.
The more convinced we become that Jesus is God, the more we will see his power and love. His mighty works show us He is able to save anyone regardless of their past. The miracle of forgiveness brings healing, wholeness and powerful change to those who trust Him.
“Lord, I declare Your goodness and that You are the only true God. I thank You that You are still a God of action today. I wait with an expectant, hopeful heart as Your mighty hand touches my life, bringing healing and salvation. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Red Bean Soup from http://daniel-fast.com/DanielFastSoupsandStews.pdf
Beans are so rich in vitamins and protein. Plus they are excellent for our digestive systems! Serve this soup with a fresh vegetable plate and bean dip or a nice green salad.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onions
¼ cup chopped green bell peppers
1 tablespoon minced garlic
4 bay leaves
2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
1 tablespoon Special Seasoning, (recipe follows on next page)
2 quarts vegetable stock
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup diced carrots
1 ½ cups cooked long-grain brown rice, warm
6 tablespoons chopped green onions
Preparation:
1. Heat the oil in a large heavy pot over high heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and bay leaves, and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
2. Add the beans and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the Special Seasoning and stock, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 1 1/2 hours, until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the salt and parsley, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. Remove 1 cup of beans from the pot and reserve.
5. With a hand-held immersion blender, or in batches in a food processor, puree the red beans. Add the reserved beans, and stir well.
6. To serve, ladle a generous cup of the soup into each of 6 bowls.
7. Top each serving with 1/4 cup of the rice and 1 tablespoon of green onions.
Yield: six servings
Jesus was clearly a man of power and action, not just words. The miracles he performed came from a motivation of love and a desire to draw people to God.
The more convinced we become that Jesus is God, the more we will see his power and love. His mighty works show us He is able to save anyone regardless of their past. The miracle of forgiveness brings healing, wholeness and powerful change to those who trust Him.
“Lord, I declare Your goodness and that You are the only true God. I thank You that You are still a God of action today. I wait with an expectant, hopeful heart as Your mighty hand touches my life, bringing healing and salvation. In Jesus name, Amen.”
Red Bean Soup from http://daniel-fast.com/DanielFastSoupsandStews.pdf
Beans are so rich in vitamins and protein. Plus they are excellent for our digestive systems! Serve this soup with a fresh vegetable plate and bean dip or a nice green salad.
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 ½ cups chopped yellow onions
¼ cup chopped green bell peppers
1 tablespoon minced garlic
4 bay leaves
2 cups dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight
1 tablespoon Special Seasoning, (recipe follows on next page)
2 quarts vegetable stock
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons chopped parsley
1 cup diced carrots
1 ½ cups cooked long-grain brown rice, warm
6 tablespoons chopped green onions
Preparation:
1. Heat the oil in a large heavy pot over high heat. Add the onions, bell peppers, garlic, and bay leaves, and cook, stirring, for 2 minutes.
2. Add the beans and cook for 2 minutes.
3. Add the Special Seasoning and stock, stir well, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 1 1/2 hours, until beans are tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the salt and parsley, cover the pot, and cook for 15 minutes. Discard the bay leaves. Remove 1 cup of beans from the pot and reserve.
5. With a hand-held immersion blender, or in batches in a food processor, puree the red beans. Add the reserved beans, and stir well.
6. To serve, ladle a generous cup of the soup into each of 6 bowls.
7. Top each serving with 1/4 cup of the rice and 1 tablespoon of green onions.
Yield: six servings
Friday, January 27, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 13
Today's daily devotional comes from 1 Samuel 18.
Even Saul, who tried to kill David, recognized the hand of God on his life. David’s success and favor was two-fold. First, David understood from his past experiences that his success was a result of the Lord being with him. Second, David was given the responsibility of leading the king’s men into battle against the
enemies of Israel. David had determined in his heart to advance the kingdom of his king.
As you fast today, reflect on the victories that God has given you in your life and consider them as preparation and confirmation of the victories to come. Praise God for where He has positioned you in your life and commit to advancing the Kingdom of your King, Jesus.
“Dear Jesus, thank You for all that You have done and are going to do in my life. Help me to acknowledge You and receive Your grace in everything that I do. Allow my life to bring glory to Your name as You empower me to advance Your Kingdom in my world. Amen.”
Portabello Steaks http://chrisgoins.blogspot.com/2009/01/daniel-fast-friendly-recipes.html
6 portabello mushroom caps
1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Pure Maple syrup
2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon marjoram
Wash mushrooms and place in a gallon size plastic sealable bag. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Add to the mushrooms and marinate for a few hours. Grill indoors or out until cooked through.
Serve with baked sweet potatoes and grilled squash and asparagus.
Even Saul, who tried to kill David, recognized the hand of God on his life. David’s success and favor was two-fold. First, David understood from his past experiences that his success was a result of the Lord being with him. Second, David was given the responsibility of leading the king’s men into battle against the
enemies of Israel. David had determined in his heart to advance the kingdom of his king.
As you fast today, reflect on the victories that God has given you in your life and consider them as preparation and confirmation of the victories to come. Praise God for where He has positioned you in your life and commit to advancing the Kingdom of your King, Jesus.
“Dear Jesus, thank You for all that You have done and are going to do in my life. Help me to acknowledge You and receive Your grace in everything that I do. Allow my life to bring glory to Your name as You empower me to advance Your Kingdom in my world. Amen.”
Portabello Steaks http://chrisgoins.blogspot.com/2009/01/daniel-fast-friendly-recipes.html
6 portabello mushroom caps
1/2 cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons Pure Maple syrup
2 teaspoons fresh grated ginger
1/2 teaspoon marjoram
Wash mushrooms and place in a gallon size plastic sealable bag. Combine remaining ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Add to the mushrooms and marinate for a few hours. Grill indoors or out until cooked through.
Serve with baked sweet potatoes and grilled squash and asparagus.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 11
Today's daily devotional comes from Psalm 56-57.
David decided to put his trust God when people were attacking him. He asks, “what can man do to me?” What a declaration of confidence! What a show of true faith and freedom from the fear of man.
Proverbs 29:25 says, “the fear of man brings a snare.” God wants us to place our trust in Him and fear Him. Not be afraid of Him, but have a healthy respect, esteem and honor for the Lord. When the Lord holds this place in our hearts, we don’t have to fear any other man.
“Father, when I am afraid of others or their opinions of me, I choose to trust in You. I fear, esteem, and honor You above any other. Thank You for peace and freedom from fear of man today in the name of Jesus.”
Thick and Creamy Corn-Potato Soup: http://chrisgoins.blogspot.com/2009/01/daniel-fast-friendly-recipes.html
6 ears corn (cut off the cob)
6 medium-large red potatoes (chopped in 1/2 inch pieces)
6 carrots (finely chopped)
1 medium-large onion (finely chopped)
2 green peppers (finely chopped)
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons thyme
2 teaspoons marjoram
3 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons sea salt
2 teaspoons pepper
3 32oz. boxes of vegetable broth
Water, as necessary
Put vegetables and spices in a large soup pot. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally for 15 minutes. Add broth and maintain a light boil. Cook 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove from heat. Blend 3/4 of the soup mixture in a blender in batches. Put blended soup in a large bowl or container until the blending process is complete. Pour the blended soup back into the pot. Add water to thin and obtain the desired consistency. Heat through and serve. Serves 8-10 generously
David decided to put his trust God when people were attacking him. He asks, “what can man do to me?” What a declaration of confidence! What a show of true faith and freedom from the fear of man.
Proverbs 29:25 says, “the fear of man brings a snare.” God wants us to place our trust in Him and fear Him. Not be afraid of Him, but have a healthy respect, esteem and honor for the Lord. When the Lord holds this place in our hearts, we don’t have to fear any other man.
“Father, when I am afraid of others or their opinions of me, I choose to trust in You. I fear, esteem, and honor You above any other. Thank You for peace and freedom from fear of man today in the name of Jesus.”
Thick and Creamy Corn-Potato Soup: http://chrisgoins.blogspot.com/2009/01/daniel-fast-friendly-recipes.html
6 ears corn (cut off the cob)
6 medium-large red potatoes (chopped in 1/2 inch pieces)
6 carrots (finely chopped)
1 medium-large onion (finely chopped)
2 green peppers (finely chopped)
2 bay leaves
3 teaspoons thyme
2 teaspoons marjoram
3 teaspoons cumin
2 teaspoons sea salt
2 teaspoons pepper
3 32oz. boxes of vegetable broth
Water, as necessary
Put vegetables and spices in a large soup pot. Cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally for 15 minutes. Add broth and maintain a light boil. Cook 45 minutes to 1 hour. Remove from heat. Blend 3/4 of the soup mixture in a blender in batches. Put blended soup in a large bowl or container until the blending process is complete. Pour the blended soup back into the pot. Add water to thin and obtain the desired consistency. Heat through and serve. Serves 8-10 generously
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Daniel Fast: Day 10
Today's daily devotional comes from 1 Samuel 16.
It’s time for a new king, Saul is out of control. The Lord sends Samuel to Bethlehem to find and anoint the next king. The shepherd boy who God has chosen is quite a surprise not only to his family but to the experienced prophet as well!
God has given us gifts and talents that He’ll use for Kingdom purposes. We must not let our short comings determine if we are ready or not. Let us only ensure our heart is fully committed to saying “yes” to God. We must be careful to not judge anyone based solely on outer appearances.
“Heavenly Father, I pray that today You will use me to speak encouragement to others and work to uplift someone. Please show me someone with the heart to do what You have called them to do and give me the courage to come alongside them. Strengthen me with boldness to pray with them in spite of where they are in their life. Amen.”
Bean and Rice Casserole: http://daniel-fast.com/recipes.html
Beans and rice combine to make a complete protein. So this casserole serves as an excellent source of protein during the Daniel Fast.
Preheat oven to 375
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cup uncooked brown rice
1 can red kidney beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can black beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can garbanzo beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can stewed tomatoes (14 1/2 - 16 oz), drained
1 can chopped mild chilies (4 oz), drained
10 ounces frozen green peas, thawed by placing under running water
1 cup frozen corn, thawed by placing under running water
Preparation:
1. In a 5-qt Dutch oven over medium high heat, sauté onion in liquid of your choice (balsamic vinegar, olive oil, water) until tender, stirring occasionally.
2. Add rice; cook while stirring until parched and slightly opaque.
3. Add beans, tomatoes, chilies and 3 1/2 cups of water to rice and onion in Dutch oven and bring mixture to boil.
4. Cover tightly place in oven, baking until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (around 1 hour for brown rice).
5. Add peas and corn, adjust seasonings, and return to oven until heated through.
It’s time for a new king, Saul is out of control. The Lord sends Samuel to Bethlehem to find and anoint the next king. The shepherd boy who God has chosen is quite a surprise not only to his family but to the experienced prophet as well!
God has given us gifts and talents that He’ll use for Kingdom purposes. We must not let our short comings determine if we are ready or not. Let us only ensure our heart is fully committed to saying “yes” to God. We must be careful to not judge anyone based solely on outer appearances.
“Heavenly Father, I pray that today You will use me to speak encouragement to others and work to uplift someone. Please show me someone with the heart to do what You have called them to do and give me the courage to come alongside them. Strengthen me with boldness to pray with them in spite of where they are in their life. Amen.”
Bean and Rice Casserole: http://daniel-fast.com/recipes.html
Beans and rice combine to make a complete protein. So this casserole serves as an excellent source of protein during the Daniel Fast.
Preheat oven to 375
Makes 4 servings
Ingredients:
1 medium onion, chopped
2 cup uncooked brown rice
1 can red kidney beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can black beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can garbanzo beans (15 1/4 - 19 oz), drained and rinsed
1 can stewed tomatoes (14 1/2 - 16 oz), drained
1 can chopped mild chilies (4 oz), drained
10 ounces frozen green peas, thawed by placing under running water
1 cup frozen corn, thawed by placing under running water
Preparation:
1. In a 5-qt Dutch oven over medium high heat, sauté onion in liquid of your choice (balsamic vinegar, olive oil, water) until tender, stirring occasionally.
2. Add rice; cook while stirring until parched and slightly opaque.
3. Add beans, tomatoes, chilies and 3 1/2 cups of water to rice and onion in Dutch oven and bring mixture to boil.
4. Cover tightly place in oven, baking until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed (around 1 hour for brown rice).
5. Add peas and corn, adjust seasonings, and return to oven until heated through.
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