Forget The Former Things

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Forget The Former Things

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” - Isaiah 43:18-19, NIV

An awe-inspiring story was shared with me recently.

Two brothers were at their parents’ house, enjoying a rummage and reminiscing of forgotten letters and photos from their college days- 30+ years ago. One brother stopped cold on a folder. It contained his college report cards. The upbeat facial expression drooped after a minute of studying the grades, like a gray cloud eclipsing a bright sunny day. The eyes and tightened face reflected hurt and lamenting. With a defeated spirit, he began to slowly call out the name of each class and final grade- C’s, D’s, and F’s.  

Yet, this man is an amazing man of God, profitable in his spiritual walk, friendships, family, and work. This bitter reminder of poor grades from 30 years ago, like the great liar, accuser, and deceiver of this world, was attempting to dismantle him. 

Your Identity

How many of us get attacked by the enemy, “showing us old report cards,” reminding us of past mistakes and failures- a snare to pull us down spiritually and emotionally? 

Our identity is not simply our failures as the enemy deceptively wants us to believe. Rather, we are shaped by our past failures. Past mistakes and failings, if laid at the foot of the cross in sacrifice, are used by God as His tools to shape and mold us to be more like His Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Unlike the enemy, God won’t bring past failures to our minds to stifle us. In His love, He may allow us to remember for a brief moment, to protect and keep us from repeating past mistakes. However, the Lord doesn’t want us living in our past failures, for in Isaiah 43:18-19 He says:

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”
 
God also uses memories of the past as a reminder to give thanks for His deliverance.

It’s important we understand that a lifestyle of past failures doesn’t define who we are today. God doesn’t see our failures and marks us.

Without Christ, we are defined by our failures. With Christ, though we will continue to have failures throughout our life, we are defined by who He is, as our victorious King and Savior, living His life in and through us. We have a perfect Savior who invites us to receive His perfect work on our behalf. No longer enemies to Him (Romans 5:10), God sees His Son when He looks at us. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

And despite what the world throws at us, Christ, the creator of the universe who is in you, is greater than he [the enemy] who is in the world (1 John 4:4, ESV). Jesus calls us His own because of what He did and who He is- not what we do in our own efforts- whether we win or fail.

It’s God’s grace at work in us, and we are victorious only because of who Christ is. That’s great news!

But God!

Turning to the last few report cards, the man then discovered grades from his last semesters: Honor roll, a high GPA, and “A” grades for each class. This new reminder brightened his face with gladness.

How was this shift possible? Once this young man had changed his course and path of concentrated study, grades drastically improved to the point of excellence.

“And the God of all grace, who called you to His eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will Himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast” (1 Peter 5:10, NIV).

Our Life Course

How many of us are on the wrong course? Perhaps you’ve stayed locked on a path that has proven itself to bring failure and is fruitless, and trying harder is futile.

This isn’t simply about a course of study in college. It’s about trying to do things our way in life without a dedicated and surrendered following of Jesus Christ.

Is Jesus your reason- your why- in all things present and future? When we make Christ our concentrated course of study, the center of our life and everything in it, we become victorious in Him. This isn’t prosperity gospel, as to believe in Christ and become successful in health, wealth, and happiness. For Jesus promised that we would have troubles in this life: “I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. You will have suffering in this world. Be courageous! I have conquered the world” (John 16:33, CSB).

Rather, spiritually we become victorious, because Jesus defeated death at the cross (Romans 6:3-11, NIV). In addition, we have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, with access to His wisdom, discernment, guidance, peace, and joy that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7, ESV).

Oswald Chambers was correct in saying:

“We are super–victors with a joy that comes from experiencing the very things which look as if they are going to overwhelm us.” 

And we can pray:

Lord Jesus, I believe in who you say that I am: chosen, loved, redeemed and a new creation with purpose in Your image. I thank you for not keeping account of my past failings and mistakes, and that you call me to take rest in you. In surrender, I allow the power of your Spirit to fill me, to help me fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. I pray all of these things in your powerful and almighty name, Christ Jesus. Amen.

Health  

Sea Moss: What You Should Know

Let’s look into its health benefits to answer this question. 

What Is Sea Moss?

Sea moss is a type of red algae, and considered a nutrient-dense "superfood" often consumed for its high concentration of minerals, vitamins, and fiber. 

Nutritional Profile

Sea moss contains 92 of the 102 minerals found in the human body, though this specific figure is not scientifically confirmed. It is a significant source of:

• Iodine: Essential for thyroid hormone production.

• Minerals: Includes calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, and phosphorus.

• Vitamins: Rich in vitamins A, C, E, K, and several B vitamins like folate.

• Fiber: High in soluble fiber and prebiotics, which act as food for beneficial gut bacteria.

Key Health Benefits

• Thyroid Support: The natural iodine in sea moss supports the thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, energy levels, and mood.

• Immune System Boost: Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, combined with vitamins A and C, may help the body defend against infections and reduce oxidative stress.

• Digestive Health: The prebiotic fiber in sea moss promotes a healthy gut microbiome, aids digestion, and can help prevent constipation.

• Weight Management: High fiber content increases satiety (the feeling of fullness), which may reduce overall calorie intake and support weight loss goals.

• Skin and Hair Care: Often used topically or ingested, its high mineral content and collagen-boosting amino acids (like citrulline-arginine) can improve skin hydration, elasticity, and hair health.

• Heart Health: Some research suggests it may help lower "bad" LDL cholesterol and manage blood pressure due to its fiber and omega-3 fatty acid content.

Forms of Sea Moss

Sea moss is available in several forms, each offering a trade-off between bioavailability, convenience, and versatility. While gels are often considered the most effective for rapid absorption, capsules are preferred for consistent dosing and ease of use.

Sea Moss Gel

Gels are made by soaking and blending raw sea moss with water. They are widely regarded as one of the most effective forms because they are a whole-food source, maintaining the plant's natural enzymes and mucilaginous properties. It has a short shelf life (typically 2-3 weeks) and requires constant refrigeration. For gut health and fast absorption, sea moss gel is superior due to its prebiotic fiber and liquid state, which coats the digestive tract more effectively.

Sea Moss Capsules

Capsules contain dried, powdered sea moss. They are the most popular choice for those who want to avoid the prep work of gels, or don’t like the “slimy” texture of sea moss gel.

Best Sea Moss Region

While all sea moss provides nutrients, many experts consider cold-water Irish Moss (Chondrus crispus) from the North Atlantic to be the most potent, though St. Lucian sea moss is highly favored for its purity and mineral content due to volcanic soil. Other species of sea moss can be found in other parts around the world, primarily cultivated in tropical coastal waters within 20 degrees of the Equator. The best region often depends on whether you prioritize nutrient density or mild flavor.

Getting Back to the Question…

There’s no direct clinical evidence that sea moss can alleviate ADHD symptoms. However, it does provide minerals and vitamins that may provide some help.

• Magnesium: This mineral is a natural relaxant that helps regulate the nervous system. Studies suggest magnesium can improve attention span and reduce "cognitive overwhelm" and anxiety.

• Zinc: Critical for the synthesis of dopamine, a neurotransmitter typically lower in ADHD brains. Some clinical trials have shown that zinc supplementation can improve hyperactivity and impulsivity.

• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are essential for brain cell membrane health and neurotransmission. Research indicates that omega-3s can provide a modest improvement in ADHD symptoms, sometimes enhancing the effectiveness of stimulant medications.

• B Vitamins (B2, B3, B6): These vitamins are vital for cellular energy production and the production of serotonin and dopamine, which are key to maintaining mental clarity and focus.

Note: In addition, the health benefits mentioned throughout this article have not been confirmed by rigorous human clinical trials. 

Precautions

While generally safe in moderation, sea moss carries specific risks that should be discussed with a doctor:

• Iodine Overload: Excessive intake can actually cause thyroid dysfunction, such as goiter or hyperthyroidism.

• Heavy Metal Contamination: Like other seaweeds, it can absorb mercury, arsenic, and lead from polluted waters.

• Medication Interactions: It may interfere with blood thinners, thyroid medications, and diabetes treatments.

• Regulation: Because it is sold as a supplement, it is not regulated by the FDA, meaning nutrient levels and purity can vary significantly between brands.

In case you missed it, you can check out last week’s devotional and health article below.

_{†All health information in the articles is exclusively gathered from clinical/medical resources that have been industry vetted, with no conflict of interest in the information they present/publish.} 

_{*Holy Nutrition does not diagnose, treat, or give medical advice. Information provided is not medical advice and should not be relied upon for diagnosis or treatment. Consult with a healthcare provider or medical practitioner for any health concerns, questions, or before making any decisions related to your health. Individual health conditions and needs may vary, and therefore, professional medical advice is essential for personalized guidance. Holy Nutrition is not responsible for any harm or damage resulting from the user's reliance on the information contained in the articles.}