Monday, July 11, 2011

Homemade Tooth Powder

I began making my own tooth powder a few months ago and have loved using it. Before I started using my tooth powder, I was having problems with one of my teeth. After only a few days, the pain subsided and I haven't had a problem since! Another benefit is how cheap it is to make and I don't have to worry about unwanted ingredients.

I have had a few people ask me for my recipe lately, so I thought I would share it on here as well. While it took me a couple weeks to get used to the flavor/texture, it is one that I enjoy.


Homemade Tooth Powder

1/8 cup Black Walnut Powder or DE (diatomaceous earth)
1/8 cup baking soda (aluminum free)
1 tsp Xylitol
1 tsp dulse powder
Ground peppermint or spearmint to taste (I use 1 ½-2 tsp)

Mix all ingredients in a little container with a tight fitting lid and shake to combine. To use, wet toothbrush and dip into powder before brushing.

Simplify: Less Really is More

Simplify: Less Really is More

Sunday, July 10, 2011

Soft Answers Versus Harsh Words


“A soft answer 
turns away wrath, But a harsh 
word stirs up anger.” 
~ Proverbs 15:1

This morning after my normal Bible study time, I felt God telling me to read more of His Word. Since I wasn’t sure what He wanted me to read, I just prayed that He would guide my hands to open up the Bible to the spot which had the wisdom I needed to hear today and for the knowledge to understand His Word. I do this quite often and each time I am amazed at the fact that almost every single time I am led to something that applies to my life at that moment.

I have been struggling with my words lately. I know that my words have the power to bless or to curse. I know that I need to improve my self control when it comes to the issue of how I respond to situations that are less than perfect. I have been praying for God to give me the strength to overcome my natural tendency to fight back with words when I’ve been hurt and to show love and compassion instead.

He lead me to Proverbs 15 today and I didn’t get past the first verse. “A soft answer turns away wrath, But a harsh word stirs up anger.”

Wow, exactly what I needed to be reminded of today. Not only do I need to apply that to my every day life, but I’m pretty sure I will be put in situations today that will require it more than ever. I’ve already started formulating response to comments I am sure to hear today and I have to admit that most of those responses are full of sarcasm and harshness. God gently reminded me today that I need to put aside that sarcasm and answer gently. The thing with sarcasm is that the words aren’t necessarily “a harsh word”, but the tone of voice and the meaning sure are. As the footnote in my Nelson Study Bible says, “Often it is not so much what we say but the way we say it that prompts such varied responses as acceptance and wrath.”

Lord, please hold my tongue today when I’m tempted to answer harshly. Keep me from saying unkind words. May only words that uplift and comfort come forth from my mouth today. Use me to bless others and not curse.

Saturday, July 9, 2011

One Flesh Marriage: Is Marriage Important to the Church?

One Flesh Marriage: Is Marriage Important to the Church?: "Brad says... We talk a lot about the importance of marriage, how it should be the second priority in your life only right behind God. I be..."

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Tough Times

Tough Times

In these times in which we're living
It's so hard to make ends meet.

But God is always with us,
as His Scriptures do repeat.

He tells us not to worry,
what to eat or drink or wear.

He will take care of us completely
as he does the birds of air.

But seek ye first His Kingdom
and all His righteousness.

Then put your faith in Jesus,
your whole life He'll truly bless.

Don't worry about tomorrow,
live to please Him day by day.

He will guide your every footstep,
as He leads you in your way.

He knows your every heartache,
every problem, every need.

It's all so very simple,
give Him your life and you'll succeed! 

Printed with permission from Thrifty Times.