Author: ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The body always knows what to do to heal itself. The challenge is listening and doing what your body needs. I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in 1997ish, Avascular Necrosis aka Osteonecrosis in my knee in 2014 and Factor V Leiden hetero, and Spondylolisthesis 2005ish Health Advocate-Health Activist-World Changer Love photography, cooking, hiking, walking ,traveling and learning to live a new normal since my diagnosis. My Links Facebook Main Profile https://www.facebook.com/debbie.briglovichandio Main Blog www.ChronicallyGratefulDebla.com Twitter - https://twitter.com/debbiea001 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/debbiea_1962 and https://www.instagram.com/chronicallygratefulme Support Group Avascular Necrosis/Osteonecrosis Support Int’l https://m.facebook.com/groups/DeadBoneDiseaseAvn Awareness for Avascular Necrosis & Other Conditions of The Bone and Joints https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisAndBoneDiseaseAwareness/ Avascular Necrosis Awareness Day November 29 – working with elected officials to get this recognized in all states https://www.facebook.com/AwarenessByDebla/ Avascular Necrosis-Osteonecrosis Knowledge and Education https://www.facebook.com/AvascularNecrosisEducation/ Facebook Link https://m.facebook.com/ChronicallyGrateful.Me/
Posted in Faith, Hope, joyful-echoes

The Muslim Faith

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As a faith blogger, I’m interested and dedicated to informing my followers about various cultures, religions, and beliefs from around the world. I believe if we understand peoples culture, faith, customs we can then see them for who they are and not what media purseves them to be or what we think we know based on gear say.

Recently, a friend of mine and I were discussing her family’s customs , ancestry and beliefs. Many have the wrong idea of Muslims and I’ve been learning more about the Muslim faith and wanted to share what I discovered with my audience. My friend was telling me about the 5 Pillars.

The Muslim faith is based on the teachings of the Qur’an which is the central religious text for Muslims. This text outlines the core beliefs and practices of Islam and guides the everyday lives of millions of people.

The Five Pillars of Islam are the five fundamental beliefs of the faith. These include: belief in one god, prayer five times a day while facing Mecca, giving charity to the poor and needy, fasting during the holy month of Ramadan, and pilgrimmaging to holy sites such as Mecca at least once in a lifetime if financially possible.

Muslims also follow dietary regulations and abstain from eating meat that hasn’t been slaughtered in an approved ‘halal’ manner – meaning only animals that have been killed humanely and blessed in their deaths. Additionally, alcohol and drugs are prohibited along with gambling and extra-marital relationships.

Furthermore, the Muslim faith is based on strong community ties. Muslims are encouraged to take part in activities that help their community. Mosque gatherings and charity events are common amongst Islamic practitioners.

Muslim faith is based on strong ideals, beliefs, and values that guide everyday life. It is essential to understand the essentials of this and any religion, as well as appreciate the beauty behind its traditions and customs.

It is important to remember that any religion and all cultures and communities can and do have extremists who do not truly represent the beliefs and values of everyone else.

I am not suggesting we all go convert to another religion, just don’t be so fast to judge a person or an entire community by a few extremists.

Let’s focus on spreading love, understanding, and respect towards all individuals regardless of their religion or background. We can learn so much from one another when we approach each other with kindness, an open mind and heart. Let’s promote unity and peace in our communities. #SpreadLoveNotHate #NoToIslamophobia

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel. It contains guidance and teachings on various aspects of life, including faith, morality, and social norms.

Muslim teachings are based on the Quran and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad, known as the Hadith. Islam emphasizes the importance of belief in one God (Allah) and the submission to His will. Muslims strive to live their lives according to the teachings of Islam, which include acts of worship such as prayer, fasting, and giving to charity.

Muslims also believe in the importance of treating others with kindness and compassion, regardless of differences in religion, ethnicity, or nationality. They believe that all humans have equal worth in the eyes of Allah and should be treated accordingly.

Islam also stresses the importance of family values and the proper treatment of women and children. Muslims believe in the sanctity of marriage and the responsibility of spouses to support and care for one another.

Overall, Muslim teachings emphasize the importance ofleading a virtuous and upright life, guided by the principles of faith, morality, and respect for others.

Some verses from the Quran that emphasize kindness:

  1. “And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good.” (2:195)
  2. “And what will make you know what is [breaking through] the difficult pass [of Hellfire]? It is the freeing of a slave or feeding on a day of severe hunger an orphan of near relationship or a needy person in misery. Then he will be of those who believe, encourage one another to perseverance and encourage one another to pity.” (90:12-17)
  3. “So by mercy from Allah, [O Muhammad], you were lenient with them. And if you had been rude [in speech] and harsh in heart, they would have disbanded from about you. So pardon them and ask forgiveness for them
Posted in joyful-echoes, Prayer

Tuesday Morning Tea and Prayer

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Dear Lord,

On this Tuesday morning, we come before you with gratitude for the new day and for our family and friends who surround us. We ask for your guidance as we navigate through the challenges that may arise today.

Grant us the strength to overcome any obstacles that stand in our way, and fill our hearts with hope and positivity. May we never forget that you are always with us, providing comfort and protection in times of need.

We know that even when we face struggles or when things didn’t go our way we know you protected us from something much worse.

We ask that you grant us the peace of mind that only comes from you, and protect us from harm. For those who wish us ill, we ask for justice and for your divine intervention on our behalf.

Thank you for the countless blessings you have bestowed upon us, and for your unending love and grace.

Amen.

Posted in Prayer

May Blessings

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

As we begin this new day, new month, and new week, let us take a moment to pause and reflect on the blessings in our lives. May we find comfort in God’s glory and feel his presence with us every step of the way.

As we journey through this week, let us keep in mind that every moment counts, and that we have the power to make each one count towards something good. Let us remain steadfast in our faith and trust that God is working in our lives to give us the very best possible.

Let us also remember those who are working and striving towards their goals, and pray that they have a successful and productive week. And for those who are struggling to make ends meet, let us pray that their needs are met and that they find the support and resources they need to thrive.

As we move forward into this new week, let us hold onto the hope that each day brings, and trust that God will guide us through any challenges we may face. May we find peace, comfort, and assurance in His love, and may His grace sustain us through it all. Amen.

Posted in Blogging

Work in Progress

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

In today’s world, we often feel the pressure to present ourselves as perfect and put-together. But I want you to know that being flawed is okay. In fact, it’s more than okay – it’s human. As someone who spreads the word of God, I think it’s important for people to see that even those of us who have a strong faith struggle with imperfections.

Personally, I struggle with swearing. It’s something that I’ve been trying to work on, but even with my best efforts, I still slip up sometimes. And that’s okay. I’m not perfect, and neither are you. But that doesn’t mean we can’t still strive to be better people.

As an ordained minister, I believe that being open about our flaws and struggles is an important part of our journey towards becoming the best versions of ourselves. It helps us to connect with others on a deeper level and reminds us that we are all in this together.

Ultimately, I believe that the best way to spread God’s word is by being godly in our actions and words. We don’t have to be perfect – but we do have to be authentic. So let’s embrace our flaws and work together towards becoming the best versions of ourselves, while spreading love, kindness, and the message of God along the way.

Deb

Posted in Gardens, joyful-echoes

Find Joy When Living With Chronic Pain

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Hey guys!

Today I want to talk about finding joy even when we’re facing chronic pain. As someone who has dealt with chronic pain myself, I know how challenging it can be to stay positive and find joy in our daily lives. But trust me, it’s possible.

One of the ways that I’ve found helpful is through meditation and yoga. These practices have been shown to not only improve our physical health, but also our mental wellbeing. They help us to center ourselves, breathe deeply, and focus on the present moment – all things that can help to ease our pain and lift our mood.

Another way to find joy when dealing with chronic pain is through positive thought imagery. This involves visualizing positive outcomes and focusing on the good in our lives, even when things feel difficult. Reading a Bible or other holy book can also help to provide comfort and inspire hope during tough times.

In addition to the practices I mentioned, a great way to cope with chronic pain is through therapy, such as tapping. Tapping helps to alleviate physical and emotional stress, and can quickly reduce the intensity of pain and negative emotions. While it’s not a “cure” for chronic pain, it can definitely help to manage it.

Finally, no matter how hard things may seem, never forget that joy and happiness are within your grasp. The scriptures from the New Testament below remind us to be strong in the face of adversity:

Philippians 4:4-7 – “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to all men. The Lord is at hand. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

Romans 15:13 – “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”

So, keep these scriptures and words of encouragement in mind as you continue your journey with chronic pain. With mindful practices, a positive attitude, and faith, you can-find joy even in the darkest of moments.

Posted in Hope, joyful-echoes

Finding Confidence In Distressing Times

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

PSALM 46:1-11

I need to get outta here !! Have you ever thought that? Either because we feel discouraged about our job, marriage or the way our life is going or not going.

At some point in our lives, we all feel the need to escape from stressful situations. It could be a difficult job, a relationship, or any other challenge that seems overwhelming. We often believe that we cannot handle the stress and decide to walk away from it all.

You are not alone at some point in our lives, we all experience feelings of distress. When daily stress becomes too much to bear, we may feel the urge to escape from our jobs, relationships, or other challenging situations. However, the Bible provides guidance on how we should respond when our natural instinct is to run away.

God’s truth is that we do not handle stress by fighting against it. Instead, we are called to find rest in Him. The psalmist teaches us to be still and know God, while Peter reminds us to cast our anxiety on Him because He cares for us. Jesus also encourages us to find peace by spending time with Him and learning from Him.

Most importantly, God wants us to know Him and trust in His sovereignty and goodness. By doing so, we can walk through difficult circumstances with inner peace and confidence.

As God’s children, we have the privilege of finding rest in Him and not giving in to the temptation to run away from stress. With a firm belief in His care and a deep understanding of His character, we can face any challenge with peace and confidence.

However, God has a powerful truth for us to hear. The best way to handle stress is not to fight against it but to be at peace. The psalmist found rest in being still and knowing God, while Jesus promised peace to those who learn from him. Instead of trying to escape, we should draw near to God and absorb the truths of Scripture.

Most importantly, we need to know who God is. Believing in His sovereignty, goodness, and love for us can help us grow in trust. With an accurate understanding of our heavenly Father, we can face any circumstance with inner peace and confidence. This is our privilege as God’s children, and we need not let stress become distress.

Posted in Evil

The Devil and Forces of Evil

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

The concept of the devil or Satan is a concept that has been around for centuries, and there are different beliefs and interpretations regarding this entity. While some people may question the existence of God, others believe that the devil is real, and his goal is to lure people away from the path of righteousness.

According to the Bible, the devil is a fallen angel who was cast out of heaven due to his pride and rebellion against God. He is known as the adversary, tempter, deceiver, and many other names. His primary goal is to lead people astray from God’s path by luring them into sin through deception and temptation.

In many cultures, the devil is depicted as an evil and frightening figure, often associated with fire, darkness, and death. Conversely, some religions portray him as a seductive and charming figure, who uses flattery and promises to gain followers.

It is essential to note that while the devil may seem powerful, he is not all-knowing or all-powerful like God. He operates within certain limitations and cannot affect someone who is not willing to be influenced by him.

Talking about the devil is necessary because it reminds us of the forces of evil that exist in the world. By recognizing the devil’s existence, we can take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones from his negative influence. It also helps us to appreciate the power of good and recognize the importance of living righteously.

There are several ways people can recognize when they are being influenced by the devil. One way is to pay attention to their thoughts and behaviors; if something feels wrong or goes against their values, it could be a sign of negative influence. Other signs include feeling a sense of hopelessness or despair, experiencing bouts of anger or aggression, or engaging in harmful activities.

To protect themselves from the devil’s negative influence, people can take several steps. One is to stay connected to their faith and practice the teachings of their religion. This includes reading religious texts, attending services, and praying regularly. Additionally, people can surround themselves with positive influences, such as friends and family who share their values.

Some may also benefit from seeking professional help if they’re struggling with mental health issues or addiction. Therapy and support groups can provide guidance and tools for overcoming negative patterns and staying on a righteous path.

There are many sources people can turn to in order to learn about the forces of evil and how to recognize them. Religious texts such as the Bible, Quran, or other significant religious texts often provide guidance on protecting yourself from negative influences.

Additionally, seeking guidance from spiritual leaders or experts in the field of demonology can be helpful. It’s important to approach these sources with an open mind, seeking knowledge and wisdom rather than blindly accepting everything you hear.

One must also be cautious of misinformation and false teachings, as the devil is known for deceiving and leading astray. It’s essential to seek reliable sources and do your research to ensure that you are learning from trustworthy and informed individuals.

By being diligent in your pursuit of knowledge and staying true to your faith, you can protect yourself from the devil’s influence and live a fulfilling life.

There are a few ways to determine if a source is reliable when it comes to learning about protecting yourself from negative influences.

First, check the credentials of the source. Are they a respected figure in their field or community? Do they have experience in dealing with spiritual matters or have they studied extensively on the topic?

Secondly, look for consistency in their teachings. Do their teachings align with what you have learned from other reliable sources? Or do they contradict well-established beliefs and principles?

Thirdly, pay attention to how they present their teachings. Are they being respectful and mindful of cultural differences? Are they promoting love, compassion, and peaceful coexistence? Or are they spreading fear, hate, and division?

Lastly, trust your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, listen to your gut and seek guidance from a trusted spiritual leader or community member. Remember, protecting yourself from negative influences requires being diligent and committed to living a faith-based life.

Our idea of what the devil looks like But remember he is a master of disguise.

Ultimately, protecting oneself from the devil’s influence requires vigilance and commitment to living a faith-based life. By doing so, individuals can lead fulfilling lives and resist the temptations that may lead them astray.

Posted in Bible, joyful-echoes, Let’s Learn the Bible

Numbers – The 4th Book of The Bible

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Numbers is the fourth book in the Hebrew Bible and the Christian Old Testament. It is a historical account of the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness from Mount Sinai to the edge of the Promised Land. The book gets its name from the numerous censuses taken of the Israelite people throughout their journey.

At the beginning of Numbers, the Israelites are preparing to leave Mount Sinai and begin their journey to the Promised Land. God commands Moses to take a census of all the male Israelites who are over the age of 20 and able to fight in battle. The census numbers over 600,000, which is significant because it shows the size of the Israelite community and their potential military power.

The book contains several other censuses, including a second count of the Israelites in chapter 26. In this second census, the number of Israelites has decreased significantly due to a plague that God sent as punishment for their disobedience.

Throughout their journey, the Israelites face numerous challenges and struggles. They grumble against God and Moses when they face difficulties and express doubts about the Promised Land. This disobedience angers God, leading to punishment and consequences for their actions.

One of the most important events in Numbers is the rebellion of Korah in chapter 16. Korah, a Levite, questions the leadership of Moses and Aaron and is subsequently swallowed up by the earth, along with his followers. This event demonstrates the importance of respecting leadership and authority.

Another significant event in Numbers is the sin of Moses and Aaron in chapter 20. Moses strikes a rock, rather than speaking to it as God instructed, and as a result, he and Aaron are forbidden from entering the Promised Land. This incident emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s commands.

Numbers also includes important laws and regulations related to the Israelites’ relationship with God. These include instructions for worship, offerings, and feasts. The book also includes the story of Balaam, a prophet who is hired to curse the Israelites but ends up blessing them instead.

Numbers is an important book in the Bible that provides insight into the Israelites’ journey through the wilderness and their relationship with God. It contains historical accounts of censuses and significant events, as well as laws and regulations related to worship and obedience. While some of the content may seem outdated or irrelevant to modern readers, the book provides valuable insights into the Israelites’ understanding of God and their efforts to maintain a relationship with Him.

Unlocking the Significance of Numbers: The Book’s Purpose Revealed


The Book of Numbers, though seemingly brimming with numerical data and genealogies, carries far more depth and meaning than its name suggests. This short post aims to shed light on why this biblical book is called Numbers and uncover the purpose it serves in the overall narrative.

The Naming of Numbers:
As we delve into the book’s content, it becomes clear that the name “Numbers” stems from the numerous censuses conducted within its pages. These censuses reflect the meticulous organization and structure of the Israelite community as they journeyed through the wilderness towards the Promised Land. However, it is crucial to recognize that Numbers encompasses much more than mere mathematical figures.

The Purpose of Numbers:
Numbers serves a multifaceted purpose, transcending its surface-level focus on counting and genealogy. Here are some of the key reasons why the book is named as such:

  1. Order and Structure: The frequent censuses demonstrate God’s desire for order and structure within the Israelite community. By numbering the people and arranging them into tribes, families, and clans, God instills discipline and organization, establishing a well-structured society.
  2. Historical Documentation: The book serves as a historical record, documenting the events and experiences of the Israelites during their wilderness wanderings. It captures significant moments, such as the tabernacle’s construction, the appointment of leaders, and the rebellion and consequences the Israelites faced.
  3. Spiritual Lessons: Beyond counting individuals, Numbers offers profound spiritual lessons. It explores themes of faith, obedience, God’s guidance, and the consequences of disobedience and unbelief. Through the Israelites’ journey, readers are reminded of the importance of trusting in God’s promises and remaining faithful even in challenging circumstances.
  4. Transition and Preparation: Numbers signifies a transitional period for the Israelites. It marks their preparation to enter the Promised Land, including receiving laws and instructions from God, refining their identity as a nation, and learning to rely fully on God’s provision and guidance.


While the Book of Numbers may initially appear focused on numerical data, its significance goes beyond mere counting. Through orderly organization, historical documentation, spiritual lessons, and preparation for the Promised Land, Numbers provides valuable insights into God’s faithfulness, human nature, and the importance of trust and obedience.

Posted in Bible, Faith, joyful-echoes, Ministry

Women Preaching

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

“Women have been preaching the gospel for centuries, despite some churches and denominations continuing to deny them the opportunity to do so. This viewpoint is misguided, as demonstrated by the many strong, capable women mentioned in the Bible who played important roles in shaping the course of events.

Deborah, Esther, and Mary are just a few examples of the female leaders who contributed significantly to the Christian faith. To deny women the opportunity to preach is to ignore their valuable contributions and the lessons of the Bible.

Ultimately, it is up to individual churches to decide whether or not to allow women to preach, but it is important to recognize that women have always been an integral part of the Christian faith. The full diversity of Christian leadership should be embraced in order to fully live out the teachings of Christ and share his message of love and hope with the world.”

Posted in joyful-echoes, Storytelling

A Boy Named Arjun.

Posted on by ChronicallyGratefulDeb

Let me tell you a story about a young boy named Arjun.

Arjun was born into a Hindu family but never really felt connected to his heritage or religion. He found the rituals and traditions boring and often scoffed at his family’s beliefs. However, everything changed when a devastating earthquake struck their city, and Arjun lost some of his family members in the disaster. Suddenly, he found himself only with a few surviving family members, and his world was turned upside down.

Feeling lost and alone, Arjun turned to his religion for solace. He began to read the sacred texts, such as the Bhagavad Gita, which gave him a newfound understanding and appreciation for his heritage. He started practicing yoga and meditation, finding peace and calm within himself.

As he delved deeper into his religion, he discovered the importance of compassion and service to others. Arjun began volunteering at local shelters and organizing fundraisers for the earthquake victims, which not only helped others but also gave him a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Through his struggles and newfound faith, Arjun realized the true value of his heritage and religion. He learned that they could be a source of strength and comfort in difficult times and a beacon of hope for a brighter future. And so, Arjun continued on his spiritual journey, embracing his heritage and sharing his newfound wisdom with those around him.