Spirituality and Health

The Purpose and Power of Fasting

By Benny Hinn

Jesus did not say if you fast: He said when you fast because fasting is a part of the Christian life. It is a part of our Christian walk.

"Moreover, when you fast, do not be like the hypocrites, with a sad countenance. For they disfigure their faces that they may appear to men to be fasting. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But you, when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face, so that you do not appear to men to be fasting, but to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” (Matthew 6:16-18, emphasis added) .

When I say fast, I am not talking about a hunger strike. I am talking about fasting. Some people go on a hunger strike and try to push God into a corner. They try to force Him to do what they want to see done in their lives. The principles of fasting in the Bible have nothing to do with hunger strikes.

The Effectiveness of Prayer for Healing

 a4_35By Darla Sitton

CBN - Millions of Americans pray when someone they love is sick. But does it make a difference? In a large, ongoing study, the National Institutes of Health is looking at how prayer and other spiritual approaches, like positive thoughts, influence healing.
    
Breast cancer survivor Natalia Kraft is participating in one of the studies.

"I definitely believe, still believe, that prayer and intention matter a lot," Kraft said.

Researchers are studying Kraft and 120 other breast cancer survivors who have undergone reconstructive surgery. Strangers from around the world are praying or concentrating positive thoughts toward some of the group for eight days. The other patients do not have prayer.

The Power of the Tongue

By Smalley Relationship Center

a4_99999284How we communicate words, our tone of voice, the inflection and volume, is as important as the words we use. Words are powerful!

There is home in which positive words are not spoken. It is the home in which words are used to demean and destroy. Instead of hearing compliments that build them up, children in this home are belittled.

These are not always abusive homes. Even well meaning parents can be careless with words. Mom has had a hard day and looks forward to a relaxing dinner. Just as she sits down to the table, her four-year-old spills her milk. Angry and impatient, Mom shouts, "Can't you do anything right!" A child turns this anger inward: "I am stupid. Mommy hates me." "This fight is all my fault."