Advertising God

May 1, 2023April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

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Special Feature

As an advertiser in this magazine, we have so many things to be thankful for. We have organizations that are located in the greatest country on earth and enjoy the greatest freedoms of any country on earth. Among those freedoms is the chance to worship God and proclaim the name of Jesus as our Savior. We have freedoms that other countries do not have. We also enjoy life in a part of this country that is not afraid to proclaim the words of truth given to us by God…

We and our organizations exist because God allows them to exist. In spite of our efforts and our belief in ourselves, we would be nothing without God’s hand on us. It is He that sends us the business and He that sends us the employees and it is He that protects all that we have. We also have a wonderful opportunity to express our right to speak in this country and with that said, why don’t we use this wonderful platform of advertising to tell our readers what God has done in our communities? The ideas and avenues to tell “what God has done” are as endless as His miracles are. There are ministries, churches, orphanages, counseling services, missionaries, and endless more that we as advertisers can highlight each month to tell “what God has done.” Let us as advertisers promote what God has done in this community and allow Him to take care of our businesses and organizations. It is by His grace that we have been planted in this wonderful city, state, and country and given the opportunity to grow. Let’s give Him the recognition He deserves!

-Mike Thompson

Owner, Molly Maid of Birmingham

Community Partner, Birmingham Christian Family

Every month Mike Thompson chooses to use his Community Partner space in Birmingham Christian Family magazine to share “Miracle Moments” in every monthly issue of Birmingham Christian Family magazine including the miracles taking place in the lives of young people at the Big Oak Ranch. To learn more about being a Community Partner visit www.BirminghamChristian.com/Partner or call 205-408-7150.

April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Miracle Moments

Brought to you by: Community Partner Molly Maid of Birmingham, www.mollymaid.com/birmingham

“I sought the Lord, and He answered me; He delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4

I arrived at Big Oak Girls’ Ranch at the end of my 8th grade year as a very angry and sad adolescent. I was angry that my aunt could not get custody, sad that I wasn’t protected, discouraged because I didn’t feel wanted. The hardest admission is acknowledging my anger toward God during that season of my life.

I channeled all of my anger at whatever Big Oak placed in front of me – especially the four promises. When I was promised, “We love you,” I fought it. As much as I did truly love my houseparents, and as much as they showed their love for me, I avoided getting close to anyone because I was afraid. When I was promised, “We’ll never lie to you,” I gave them all of my truth, everything I could tell them about my past, and did so through negative behaviors, doubting their ability to follow through on their promises because believing an adult would not lie to me was beyond my imagination. When I was promised, “We’ll stick with you,” I never considered they would be my family through the highs and lows of my healing process no matter if I was living on the Ranch or not. It was so hard for me to see past where I was. When I was promised, “There are boundaries,” I crossed them often, struggling between wanting a different life for myself and wanting to push people away.

Rachel with houseparents — Rachel Pruitt Knight with her houseparents, David and Margie Blair, in 2019.

I struggled with this tension and the resulting hardships it caused for many years. Until, in a moment of enormous desperation, I turned to God and He answered. In addition, I have witnessed my houseparents and the staff at Big Oak continue to love me and remain active in my life. I made a promise to God to not give up, to choose the different life He wants for me and my family. It isn’t always easy to keep promises we make, but my life has been changed because of promises made and kept to me, and the promise I keep. I realized how Big Oak kept each one, not because it was their job, but because they saw me as valuable and worth it. I still matter to them. Through the process of working through my anger, I have realized I am truly loved.

-Rachel Pruitt Knight

April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Best Books

During the next few weeks there will a multitude of young graduates who will start the journey into adulthood. Some will continue their education, some will join the workforce, some will start a family. The decisions they make within the next few years will impact the trajectory of their life for decades. As they begin this new phase of life, the spiritual maturity and health of these young adults is paramount.

Student Life Application Study Bible — *The Student Life Application Bible* is available for purchase at Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts in Alabaster.

The Student Life Application Bible is designed to enhance the spiritual growth of anyone who seeks to deepen their understanding of the Scriptures. Designed to be both substantive, yet not overwhelming, The Student Life Application Bible contains over 27,000 study notes, hundreds of maps, graphs, and illustrations, dozens of key articles covering the basics of the Christian faith, and other features designed to increase one’s knowledge of the scriptures and the story of God’s work in human history. It also allows access to a powerful Bible app containing even more study aids, videos, and devotionals. The Student Life Application Bible uses the clear and accurate New Living Translation, making the Bible easy to understand.

Although The Student Life Application Bible is not written specifically for young adults, it is an excellent first-time study Bible and I highly recommend it for graduates as they start a new chapter in their walk with Jesus. These young disciples are the next generation of adult disciples in the kingdom of Jesus. Let’s send them out into the world with a firm grasp and appreciation of the Scriptures which define our faith.

-Darrel Holcombe, Owner

Sanctuary Christian Books and Gifts

Colonial Promenade, Alabaster

www.sanctuarychristianbooksandgifts.com

205-663-2370

April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Best Books

The secret to a more joyful life might surprise you. Relationships. It’s that simple. The more rooted your relationship with Christ and deeper your connection with others, the more your joy will increase. Those who have strong relationships live a happier and more fulfilled life.

In Rooted Joy: Prioritizing Your Connection to Christ and Your Friends, best-selling author Becky Harling invites you to experience the deeply rooted joy promised in the book of Philippians. In this study you’ll learn how to overcome loneliness and isolation.

Rooted Joy Cover Image — Find a preview of *Rooted Joy* here.

Harling has a degree in biblical literature and is a popular speaker at retreats and conferences. Her life experience as a pastor’s wife, parent, grandparent, women’s ministries leader, and a survivor of breast cancer all bring depth and transparency to her message. A best-selling author, Harling is the author of many books including, How to Listen So People Will Talk and The Extraordinary Power of Praise.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your girlfriends, open your Bibles, and watch and see what God will do! Learn more about Rooted Joy at shop.ironstreammedia.com.

April 27, 2023April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

TO SAY THANK YOU for reading and supporting the businesses and organizations that advertise with Birmingham Christian Family(BCF) and make spreading Good News possible we have TWO Great Giveaways this month!

To get yourself ready for summertime fun, we have a $75 Trak Shak Gift Card you can use at any area Trak Shak, www.trakshak.com.

To enter simply LIKE and COMMENT on the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Instagram @cfpbirmingham.

For EXTRA ENTRIES:

POST to your story on Instagram
FOLLOW US on Facebook @birminghamchristianfamily
SUBSCRIBE to receive your free digital issue of BCF at www.birminghamchristian.com.

Offer ends 5/29/23. Winner announced 5/30/23 on Instagram so be sure to FOLLOW our page @cfpbirmingham.

Win a $60 Gift Card to be used at A Birthday Place- now in their new, bigger location in Pelham.

To enter simply LIKE and SHARE the Giveaway Post on Birmingham Christian Family’s Facebook @birminghamchristianfamily.

For EXTRA ENTRIES:

TAG a friend in the comments.

FOLLOW US on Instagram @cfpbirmingham

SUBSCRIBE to receive your free digital issue of BCF at www.birminghamchristian.com.

Offer ends Wednesday, 5/31/23. Winner announced 6/1/23 on the Facebook Giveaway Post. So be sure to FOLLOW our Facebook page @birminghamchristianfamily.

April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Healthy Living

I just completed a month-long fasting and health challenge, during which we focused on simple habits. I am always blown away at how implementing healthy habits can transform my mental health and physical health!

One thing that stood out to me was the importance of drinking water. As the weather warms up here in Birmingham, staying hydrated is vital. Especially when you are doing some sort of fast, like intermittent fasting, drinking enough water is crucial! Studies show the average person needs at least half their body weight in fluid ounces. If you struggle to get in enough water, try using a straw or bringing your water bottle in the car with you.

Heather Brown and son — Read Heather Brown’s inspiring faith story and learn how she started My Life Well Loved here.

Did you know that simply drinking water:

Increases Brain Power and Provides Energy
Promotes Healthy Weight Management & Weight Loss
Flushes Out Toxins
Improves Your Skin
Boosts Immune System
Prevents Headaches
Prevents Cramps and Sprains
Helps Regulate Your Body Temperature
Prevents Backaches
Improves Your Heart Health

It’s incredible that something as simple (and free!) as drinking water can help us think clearer, have more energy, and be in a better mood. The more I learn about the connections between our physical health choices and our mental health, the more excited I get. I love the story in the gospels where Jesus meets the Samaritan woman by the well and has a whole conversation with her about water! John 4:13-14, ESV says, “Jesus said to her, ‘Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.’” Today, make a point to drink half your body weight in ounces of water and move your body! (Find tips for how to add salt and minerals to your water at mylifewellloved.com.) You can find a free water tracker here. And please join me in thanking the Lord that He is living water for our souls, too!

-Heather Brown helps busy mamas of young littles who are caught in the hustle to find encouragement in their journey to true health, from the inside out, starting with the heart. Connect with her @mylifewellloved on Instagram or visit www.mylifewellloved.com for resources and to learn more!

April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

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Senior Scene

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 72 million Americans will be 65 years of age by 2030. That number is expected to reach 83.7 million by 2050. While advances in medical science are clearly helping people live well into their 80s, 90s, and beyond, longevity brings its own set of challenges that may result in a loss of independence. Among them are chronic disease, cognitive impairment, falls leading to broken bones, poor nutrition, and more. So, in what ways do professional caregivers help ensure seniors maintain a lifestyle that allows them to stay independent?

1. Focusing on Senior Nutrition. Like most things that “go,” the human body requires adequate, consistent, high-quality fuel. This takes the form of healthy food that must be shopped for, prepared, and of course consumed. Today, there are usually in-store food shopper options and a variety of store-generated or outside delivery choices that will help seniors acquire the food items they need. There is usually an extra charge, but nothing beats the convenience of a service that helps provide consistently good nutrition. And while diet can’t always stave off chronic disease, a healthy body has a better chance of presenting a strong immune defense when illness strikes.

2. Exercise and Other Activities to Keep Up Senior Physical Health. For adults, the National Institute on Aging (NIA) recommends 150 minutes a week (2.5 hours) of moderate intensity aerobic exercise (walking; jogging; cycling; dancing), with strength training two days a week. That said, the same guidelines state that any exercise is better than none, so if a senior doesn’t consistently hit the mark, some movement is still recommended. This is where, following a healthcare provider’s sanctioned plan, trained caregivers can make a difference in the quest for independence by encouraging a client to get up, out, and move.

3. Medication Monitoring Key to Senior Independence. Staying current on prescription medication and vitamin supplements can mean the difference between a healthy life and a decline or hospitalization that results from neglectful medication management. A decline in mental acuity can sometimes cause forgetfulness as well. In this respect the caregivers can provide constant monitoring and reminders so doses are not missed, noting and reporting when a prescription needs to be refilled, and reporting changes in the client’s mental and physical health, mobility, and other issues—some of which may be a reaction to medication.

As seniors age, helping them maintain a good quality of life requires support in many areas. The role that a family caregiver or a professional caregiver play is invaluable and integral to a healthy, independent lifestyle.

-Len Everts

Amada Senior Care

www.amadabirmingham.com

April 25, 2023April 25, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Senior Scene

In our prime of life, we can have as many as 10,000 taste buds. But by age 70, many older adults have lost two out of three taste buds.1 The sense of taste deteriorates, often reducing the joy and desire associated with food. Plus, chronic conditions such as diabetes, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, as well as medications, can interfere with the sense of taste and smell, likely leading to a decrease in appetite. This can potentially cause senior malnutrition, resulting in poor wound healing, weakened immune system and higher risk of hospital admission.2

Brookdale Grain Salad — Residents enjoy delicious and nutritious food on a daily basis tailored to their needs.

It’s why we believe the dining experience is so important at Brookdale. We’ve developed an Optimum Life® dining program to help combat many of the challenges seniors face with food as they age. It’s our goal to produce nutrient-rich meals for all our residents, regardless of dietary requirements, by sourcing quality products and adhering to quality standards governing food preparation and service. A key component to providing healthy, flavorful meals to our residents is starting with fresh ingredients. Because of our size, we’re able to build partnerships with national, regional and local vendors and suppliers that allow us to purchase best-value products. Here’s a look inside Brookdale’s Dining Program Features.

Optimum Life Cuisine is abundant in whole grains, lean meats, poultry and fish with low-fat dairy and a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. Prepared with healthy fats, fresh herbs, spices and other low-sodium seasonings, options are offered at every meal and are indicated on our menus with an insignia.
The Culinary Arts Institute is our professional development program to support community dining leaders and assist in their advancement to make sure our associates are prepared to provide our residents with the best dining experience possible through hands-on training, tools and resources.
More delicious food from Brookdale.
Menu Chats encourage residents to share their menu ideas and even personal recipes with dining associates.
Menu Manager is used by our communities to oversee standardized recipes, menu inserts and Daily Diet Modification summary reports, where applicable.
The “We Say Yes” program empowers our associates to say yes to the requests of our residents and guests. If we aren’t able to accommodate the request, instead of saying no, we offer an alternative item to meet the needs of the residents.
Our Fresh Approach starting with fresh ingredients is a key component to providing a healthy, flavorful meal to our residents and guests. Menus comprising seasonal and regional favorites are developed by the communities to celebrate local, fresh tastes.
Signature Seasonings were developed by our registered dietitians with our culinary experts and designed to add more flavor to food without adding salt or fat. These seven mixes of particular herbs and spices specifically target seniors’ remaining taste buds.
Guiltless Pleasures are portion-controlled desserts that either have no added sugar or are reduced in sugar or sugar free. These dessert options are ideal for anyone with diabetes or on a carbohydrate-controlled diet, as they are lower in calories and fat than regular desserts.
For the Therapeutic Diets we support, recipes are able to be modified to meet the specialized needs of our residents. Modifications are pre-approved by a registered dietitian and options include Liberalized Renal, 2-Gram Sodium, No Added Salt, Texture Modified, Carbohydrate-Controlled, Puree, Low Fat/Low Cholesterol and more.

Know a senior who could benefit from Brookdale’s approach to dining? Refer them to Brookdale today! Call and schedule a visit to the community and lunch at 205-870-0786. Save the date! You’re invited to join Brookdale for their All-American Cookout on May 11, 2023 from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.

We are excited and proud to say that Brookdale University Park is open to new residents! Brookdale residents enjoy an engaging lifestyle with a selection of care options to meet changing needs. The community conveniently located off Lakeshore Drive offers a full continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s and dementia care and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Call 205-870-0786 to connect with one of our team members who would be delighted to help you plan your personal visit, www.brookdale.com.

1. everydayhealth.com/senior-health/when-aging-steals-your-sense-of-taste.aspx

2. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21556200

November 28, 2023April 19, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

Special Feature

Birmingham Christian Family Community Partner Compact shares helpful tips to promote mental wellness and reduce substance misuse each month. Click the links below to learn more about specific topics.

Click here to learn more about the mission of Compact.

January 17, 2024April 3, 2023 by Laurie Stroud

High School is challenging for most students. It is an environment where awkwardness and social anxiety loom, and temptation is found at every turn. I have experienced those same challenges, but thankfully I have a friend in Jesus Christ, and He helps me overcome these burdens.

Riley Simpson Crossroads Christian Academy — Riley Simpson attends Crossroads Christian Academy in Warrior, Ala.

I have never been great at making friends. Growing up with autism made it difficult to talk to other kids my age. Every day at school I felt alone, despite my efforts to interact. I prayed for years that God would bless me with friends. After much prayer and consideration, my parents decided to homeschool my brother and me beginning my eighth-grade year. Homeschooling not only allowed me to study in a Christian-based environment, but it also opened the door to the friends I had been praying for. Although it took many years of praying, God answered and helped strengthen my faith. As a result, my anxiety decreased and my confidence grew. I eventually gathered the courage to pursue interests I would never have tried, such as performing in our co-op’s high school drama class or volunteering in service projects. Despite my struggles with social interaction, God has been faithful to answer my prayers. He has led me to a great group of friends, with whom I have shared many wonderful memories over the years.

I have always tried to take schooling seriously, but unfortunately, I sometimes get distracted. Electronics are my weakness, and the temptation to pick up my video games or cell phone during school hours has landed me in hot water several times. My parents have punished me on numerous occasions to convey their point- “work before play.” My initial response is usually anger, but eventually, my heart becomes convicted, and I realize I am in the wrong. I am so thankful for God’s conviction and for loving parents who are willing to correct me and stress the importance of striving to be my best. I can never reach my full potential if I squander my time sitting in front of a screen. I have faced many challenges throughout high school, and I will undoubtedly face many more in the future. The Lord has brought me through enough situations to strengthen my faith and reinforce the fact that anything is possible through Him. I pray that my story can help others put their trust in Jesus Christ.

Click here to learn what winning the scholarship would mean to Riley!

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