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  • SAUSAGE SPINACH CRUSTLESS QUICHE

    SAUSAGE SPINACH CRUSTLESS QUICHE

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    This Sausage Spinach Quiche is made without a crust. Great to make on a Sunday and enjoy throughout the week. It’s super versatile too and my family loves it!

    Sausage Spinach Crustless QuicheSausage Spinach Crustless Quiche

    If you are a fan of pizza you will love this Supreme Pizza Crustless Quiche. It’s a great variation that your family will love.

    ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE

    This sausage spinach crustless quiche is a family favorite and so easy to throw together if you had a busy day or just want something quick.  You can add ingredients you like or use different meats and cheeses in this quiche and make it your own.  I like that I don’t have to have a crust or have to make one but you could make this in a crust if you want.  It is good reheated in the microwave. 

    🍴KEY INGREDIENTS

    • Pork sausage
    • Fresh spinach
    • Can chopped mushrooms, drained
    • Mozzarella cheese
    • Green or regular onion
    • Eggs
    • Milk
    • Sour cream
    • Garlic powder
    • Black pepper
    • Salt

    SWAPS

    You can switch out the cheese and spices in this recipe. If you are not a fan of mushrooms, simply leave them out. This is a versatile recipe! You could also use turkey breakfast sausage for a lighter version.

    🍽️HOW TO MAKE

    This is a very simple recipe and since it’s crustless it takes nothing to put together. We love having a quiche in the fridge for a easy breakfast!

    COOKING STEPS

    Step 1
    Cook sausage on top of the stove and drain.  In a large bowl toss sausage with chopped spinach, onions, mushrooms and 1/2 cup of cheese.  

    Step 2
    Spray a baking dish with cooking oil and add sausage mixture.  I used a 10 inch pie plate to make this.  In the same bowl you used to toss sausage and spinach whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper and salt.  

    Step 3
    Pour this over the sausage mixture in the baking dish.  Sprinkle on the other 1/2 cup shredded cheese.  Bake in preheated 400 degree oven for 40 to 45 minutes until center is set and top is browned.

    Sausage Spinach Crustless QuicheSausage Spinach Crustless Quiche

    ⭐TIP

    This quiche will puff up in the oven and once removed and cool will fall some. That is nothing to worry about!

    OTHER QUICHE RECIPES

    • Southern Shrimp and Grits – This classic dish is always a hit and it also has wonderful reviews.
    • Heavy Cream Cinnamon Rolls – This was a recipe that went viral for how simple it is and how delicious! Only 5 ingredients and perfect for a weekend morning.
    • Southern Fried Potatoes – These are the best ever and I can eat them for any meal!
    • Cathead Biscuits – This is one of our most popular recipes and it has wonderful memories! The best biscuits.

    STORING, REHEATING & SERVING SIZE

    We store this in the refrigerator, reheat in the microwave and it makes about 6-8 servings.

    Sausage Spinach Crustless Quiche

    Anne Walkup

    This Sausage Spinach Crustless Quiche is one you will make over and over. Made with pork sausage, mushroom, spinach and delicious cheese, this will quickly become a favorite.

    Prep Time 15 minutes

    Cook Time 40 minutes

    Total Time 55 minutes

    Course Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner

    Cuisine American

    • 1/2 pound pork sausage
    • 3 cups chopped fresh spinach
    • 1 4 ounce can chopped mushrooms, drained
    • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/2 cup chopped green or regular onion
    • 5 eggs
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

    • Cook sausage on top of the stove and drain. In a large bowl toss sausage with chopped spinach, onions, mushrooms and 1/2 cup of cheese. Spray a baking dish with cooking oil and add sausage mixture. I used a 10 inch pie plate to make this.

    • In the same bowl you used to toss sausage and spinach whisk together the eggs, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, black pepper and salt. Pour this over the sausage mixture in the baking dish. Sprinkle on the other 1/2 cup shredded cheese.

    • Bake in preheated 400 degree oven for 40 to 45 minutes until center is set and top is browned.

    You could also make this with turkey breakfast sausage. 

    Keyword Sausage Spinach Crustless Quiche

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    Anne Walkup

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  • Snoop Dogg and E-40’s Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

    Snoop Dogg and E-40’s Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf Recipe

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    Snoop Dogg, E-40.     Gregg DeGuire/WireImage; Antonis Achilleos

    Snoop Dogg and Earl “E-40” Stephens are skilled not only in the recording studio, but also in the kitchen.

    The rappers teamed up to create a delicious take on a classic meatloaf recipe, which they exclusively shared in the latest issue of Us Weekly. “We put our own creative spin on it, stuffed with mozzarella and other special ingredients,” E-40, 56, tells Us of the versatile dish.

    “You can eat it with rice, potatoes, vegetables macaroni and cheese or make a sandwich out of it,” he adds. “And it’s absolutely delicious along with a glass of Earl Stevens Selections’ Function Red Blend wine, owned by yours truly.”

    Comprised of typical meatloaf ingredients, including bread crumbs, onion, salt and pepper, the pair’s version swaps traditional ground beef for ground turkey and turkey sausage, as well as red bell pepper, jalepeños and, as the recipe’s name suggests, mozzarella cheese. Not to mention, the meatloaf is covered in mouth-watering barbecue sauce.

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    The recipe is one of many tasty dishes featured in Snoop, 52, and E-40’s cookbook, Snoop Dogg Presents Goon with a Spoon, which hit bookshelves in November 2023. The book’s title is a nod to E-40’s food brand of the same name, which he launched in 2021. The company’s products include burritos, sausages and several flavors of ice cream.

    The cookbook also served as a follow-up to Snoop’s 2018 debut cookbook, From Crook to Cook: Platinum Recipes from Tha Boss Dogg’s Kitchen. Included in the book is a recipe inspired by his 1993 hit track “Gin and Juice.”

    Snoop’s dive into the culinary world is partially thanks to his friendship with Martha Stewart, with whom he hosted the cooking show Martha & Snoop’s Potluck Party Challenge from 2016 to 2020. The VH1 series saw the duo team up with celebrity guests to compete for the prized Potluck Party Platter.

    Snoop Dogg and E-40 Have Dinner Night Covered With Their Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
    CHRONICLE BOOKS

    “This show is not just about us, it’s about the people that we bring together,” Snoop exclusively told Us Weekly in April 2019 ahead of the show’s season 3 return. “How could you be mad, or have hate in your heart after watching this show?”

    Snoop has kept up his passion for cooking over the years, making headlines earlier back in March for hosting Robert De Niro and Austin Butler at his house for dinner. “Champ DeNiro Elvis Snoop ✅🦅 Dinner @ the Malibu house talking numbers,” Snoop’s son Champ Medici (real name Cordell Broadus), captioned a pic of himself, his dad and their famous guests via Instagram at the time.

    Keep scrolling to check out Snoop and E-40’s full meatloaf recipe:

    Snoop Dogg and E-40 Have Dinner Night Covered With Their Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf Recipe
    Antonis Achilleos

    Mozzarella-Stuffed Turkey Meatloaf with BBQ Sauce

    Serves 4, with leftovers

    Ingredients

    • 1 lb ground turkey
    • 1 Ib uncased turkey sausage
    • 2 eggs, beaten
    • ½ cup breadcrumbs
    • 1 medium white onion, chopped
    • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
    • 1 jalapeño, finely chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1 tsp salt
    • ½ tsp cracked black pepper
    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella
    • 2 cups barbecue sauce, plus more for serving

    Instructions

    1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line a rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil.

    2. In a large bowl, combine the ground turkey, turkey sausage, eggs, bread crumbs, onion, pepper, jalapeño, garlic, salt and pepper. Combine the mixture well with your hands. Divide the mixture in half.

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    3. Transfer one half of the mixture to the prepared baking sheet. Form into a 10-inch disc about 2 inches thick. Pile the shredded mozzarella on top of the disc, spreading it to the edges.

    4. Form the remaining turkey into a ball, then flatten it into a disc. Place the disc on top of the mozzarella and pat it so it covers the bottom round of meat. Pour the barbecue sauce on top, spreading it to the edges and over the sides.

    5. Bake 1 to 1½ hours, until cooked through or it measures 160 degrees on a meat thermometer inserted at the thickest part of the loaf. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing to serve, passing around additional sauce, if desired.

    With reporting by Andrea Simpson

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    Paige Strout

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  • Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs-Mustard Carolina BBQ Sauce – Oh Sweet Basil

    Instant Pot Beef Short Ribs-Mustard Carolina BBQ Sauce – Oh Sweet Basil

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    Beef short ribs that fall apart and are bathed in a tangy mustard based BBQ sauce from South Carolina! And you only need 30 minutes and an Instant Pot!

    Cade grew up in South Carolina so we are always trying to find new ways to get back to his roots through delicious Southern food. These Instant pot beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina sauce is our latest and greatest! And our mustard sauce is the best with a couple of surprising ingredients you won’t believe!

    You all have loved our world’s best Carolina pulled pork, so you’re going to go crazy for these short ribs! Pile them on top of some steakhouse smashed potatoes!

    So make a side of Southern macaroni and cheese or this Southern English pea salad, and get all your favorite people around the table the for this one!

    Ingredients for Mustard BBQ Beef Short Ribs

    Before we jump into the recipe for these Instant Pot short ribs, you need to make the Carolina Barbecue Sauce. It is the most fabulous combination of ingredients you’re already going to have on hand. Here is what you need:

    • Yellow Mustard
    • Honey
    • Apple Cider Vinegar
    • Ketchup
    • Brown Sugar
    • Worcestershire Sauce
    • Texas Pete’s or Franks Hot Sauce
    • Butter
    • Nutmeg
    • Liquid Smoke

    Those surprise ingredients…melted butter and nutmeg! I could almost drink this stuff it’s so good! Once the mustard sauce is made, you just need a few more ingredients…

    • Beef Short Ribs
    • Pineapple Juice: braising liquid
    • BBQ Rub: Kosher Salt, Brown Sugar, Black Pepper, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Chili Powder, Smoked Paprika, Thyme, Ground Cumin and Nutmeg

    The measurements and details for the all the ingredients can be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.

    We love our BBQ rub because it’s the best ever, but feel free to use whatever your favorite BBQ rub is! Once the sauce and rub are ready, then we can start the ribs!

    A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes.

    How to Make Mustard Carolina BBQ Short Ribs

    Our oven braised beef short ribs has been a popular recipe on the site for years, so we are speeding things up with this recipe and cooking them in the Instant Pot. Here are the basic steps…

    1. Prep the ribs
      • Sprinkle the ribs on all sides with the BBQ rub.
      • Turn the Instant Pot to “saute” mode and put a little oil into the pot. Sear the ribs on each side and then remove them to a plate.
      • Pro tip: Don’t crowd the ribs when you are browning them. You are going to have to do them in a few batches, so be patient!
    2. Cook the ribs
      • Pour the pineapple juice in the Instant Pot and add the trivet to keep the ribs up out of the juice. Place the ribs on the trivet and pour some of the Carolina sauce all over them
      • Add the lid, set the valve to seal, and turn the Instant Pot to high pressure for 30 minutes
      • Allow for a 15 minute natural release
    3. Crisp the ribs
      • Once the short ribs are done, remove them from the Instant Pot and place them on a cookie sheet and stick them in the broiler for a couple of minutes so they get all crispy delicious.
      • Then brush some more Carolina mustard BBQ sauce all over those babies and serve them immediately. They will be fork-tender delicious!

    Can Carolina Short Ribs Be Made Ahead?

    Yes! I actually think Carolina beef short ribs taste better the next day, and they reheat super well. If you have the patience of Job and can resist eating them right away, store them in an airtight container in their juices. Scrape off solidified fat, and reheat them the next day on the stove top at a low simmer.

    A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes.A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes.

    Are Carolina Short Ribs Different Than BBQ Short Ribs?

    If you’ve had our sticky BBQ beef short ribs, you will find that the only difference between those and these Carolina style short ribs is the sauce used. The BBQ short ribs use a ketchup and brown sugar based sauce while the Carolina style is uses the mustard based sauce.

    How Long Will Short Ribs Keep?

    Uncooked short ribs will keep in the freezer for 6 to 12 months if they are stored properly. Once they are cooked, they will keep in the fridge for 4-5 days. They can also be stored in the freezer once they are cooked for up to 3 months.

    Reheat beef short ribs in the oven with a little beef broth in a baking dish or dutch oven and covered with foil. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees and warm them up until heated through.

    Are Carolina Short Ribs Baked?

    Carolina short ribs can be cooked in an oven using a technique called braising. Follow the instructions in our Korean oven braised short ribs recipe but use the Carolina mustard BBQ sauce in place of all the Korean ingredients.

    Can Carolina Short Ribs Be Cooked In A Slow Cooker?

    Yes! Follow all the same instructions and then cook the boneless short ribs in a slow cooker on low for 4-5 hours and no more than 8. I still like to crisp them in the broiler right before eating them to get those crispy delicious bits!

    A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes with a fork full being taken out.A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes with a fork full being taken out.

    Can BBQ Sauce Be Frozen?

    Left over BBQ sauce can be frozen for up to 3 months.

    How Long Will BBQ Sauce Keep?

    Homemade BBQ sauces don’t have the shelf life that store bought sauces have. This Carolina mustard sauce will last about a week in the refrigerator. And yes, it should be refrigerated!

    How Do You Get BBQ Sauce Out of Clothes?

    I have found that club soda does the best job at getting mustard based stains out of clothes. If that doesn’t work, then I always go for Oxy Clean…it is a miracle worker in my book!

    We are all about the Instant Pot these days and making delicious dinners quickly! You can find all our Instant Pot recipes here. Don’t miss our Instant Pot Cheat Sheet that has all information you need to cook all the basics in the Instant Pot.

    What Should I Eat with Carolina Mustard Beef Short Ribs?

    Here are just a few ideas of what to eat with this dish:

    My mouth is watering thinking about these beef short ribs covered in Carolina mustard BBQ sauce! The flavor is out of this world! The Instant Pot makes them totally doable for a weeknight meal! Take a trip to the South with this one!

    More Ribs Recipes You Should Try:

    Servings: 4

    Prep Time: 10 minutes

    Cook Time: 30 minutes

    Total Time: 40 minutes

    Description

    A tangy mustard based bbq sauce from South Carolina smeared all over tender, fall apart beef short ribs and you only need 30 minutes and an instant pot!

    Prevent your screen from going dark

    • Prepare the bbq rub and set aside.

    • Prepare the mustard bbq sauce and set aside.

    • Sprinkle the rub (see note) on all sides of the ribs.

      [3 Tablespoons BBQ Rub]

    • Heat the instant pot to the saute mode on more. Drizzle in a little oil and brown the ribs on each side. Remove to a plate.

      4 Pounds Short Ribs

    • Pour in the juice and add a trivet to keep the meat off of the bottom of the pan.

      1/2 Cup Pineapple Juice

    • Set in all of the ribs and pour over 1 cup of the Carolina sauce. Add the lid and set the valve to seal. Turn the instant pot to high pressure for 30 minutes and allow a 15 minute natural release.

      [Carolina Mustard BBQ Sauce]

    • Remove the ribs to a pan and place under the broiler for 2 minutes to re-crisp the meat.

    • Take the pan from the oven and brush with more sauce. Serve immediately.

    You can use any bbq rub that you like, we just prefer our rub recipe because it’s the best. 😉
    Short ribs will keep for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

    Serving: 1gCalories: 588kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 63gFat: 34gSaturated Fat: 14gCholesterol: 195mgSodium: 216mgPotassium: 1220mgSugar: 3gVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 7mg

    Author: Sweet Basil

    Course: Over 500 Family Dinner Recipes Ideas

    Recommended Products

    A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes.A photo of beef short ribs smothered in mustard Carolina BBQ sauce over a pile of mashed potatoes.

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    Sweet Basil

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  • Your Husband Isn’t the Enemy

    Your Husband Isn’t the Enemy

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    We had a showdown at MC Wholesale the other day. Pull out the tumbleweeds and gun fire and we would’ve had a fight. 

    This wasn’t any argument. It was an argument over a $5 piece of technology my husband desperately pleaded he needed. To him it was a need. I called it a want or desire.

    After being asked 35 times with the word “please,” I hung my head in defeat. “I’m not going to lose my marriage over a stupid piece of equipment,” I remarked. “Go get it,” I relented. “Only if you’re okay with it,” my husband replied. I wasn’t, but I obliged. I hadn’t given up my mind. After two hours of arguing in the store, however, I realized it wasn’t worth it.

    As much as I didn’t want my husband to buy that piece of technology I would call junk, the fact was this: my husband isn’t the enemy. I suspect that yours (or your spouse or significant other isn’t the enemy either).

    Did I realize that while talking heatedly in the store? Absolutely not. Did I realize it later and regret some choice words said? Yes. Perhaps my mishap in the store can prevent you from your own.

    Here are two things I learned:

    1. Check Your Priorities

    For me, this entire situation began long before Ben saw this “beautiful piece of technology” he just had to have. It didn’t matter to me that it was “worth $1000,” “a stellar deal,” or could “just sit quietly in the basement.” What mattered was that any clutter stresses me out and makes me anxious. 

    Growing up in a home fragmented by abuse, chaos, and pain has often made stuff the enemy. It’s not that stuff did anything to me, but it was always present in my trauma.

    Piles of laundry remind me of long days and longer nights with my mom. Doing all the chores ourselves without a helping hand.

    Paper and piles remind me of overdue bills and hectic grocery trips. Did we have enough money or did someone spend it all? Could we afford to use the AC, or would we need to spend another night using the windows?

    Misplaced items we didn’t need or have room for remind me of extravagant things people would bring into our home that we clearly couldn’t afford. They remind me of someone trying to buy my love when all I really wanted was their time.

    So as Ben and I left the store and sat in the car, I thought about my priorities. He knew the concerns I’d voiced about clutter and anxiety, and I knew his. But I had to trust him and prioritize our relationship over being right or wrong in this disagreement. As my Grandma Memo often quotes, “Sometimes, agreeing to disagree,” is the healthiest and best thing you can do in that moment. It may very well still be uncomfortable and unpleasant, but it can help table the conversation until later when both parties are in a better headspace. 

    2. Check Your Heart

    The second thing this incident revealed to me is stated in the title but worth noting and explaining.

    When arguments happen, we’re quick to place blame, aim, shoot, and fire. If we’re not careful, we will place blame where blame was never due.

    In this particular situation, both my husband and I exemplified habits and said things we wished we hadn’t. There were many things that would’ve been better than how we handled it. Can you relate? We’re almost a year into marriage and still learning a lot. I figure I’ll be learning my entire life. But one thing I felt Christ tell me was, “Your husband isn’t the enemy.” I needed to check my heart. Do you?

    So many arguments in our lives could be prevented if we immediately took them to Christ before responding. Did I do this as soon as Ben and I disagreed? No. Did I do it fifteen minutes later? Yes. What did God tell me? To listen, have grace, and recognize the true enemy.

    Friend, no matter the situation, argument, or unpleasant circumstance you may be dealing with, I guarantee you that the person, place, or thing, isn’t the enemy. We all know that Satan is declared a liar, a thief, and someone who seeks to destroy us. Satan‘s goal is to distract us from Christ by making those around us the enemy. As Christians, we have to be wiser and smarter than that. 

    Scripture tells us that the thief has come to steal, kill, and destroy, but Jesus has come to give us life and life to the fullest (John 10:10). If Satan can turn our friends, family, world, leaders, and nations into the enemy, then he’s already won. Don’t let him.

    Take Your Heart to Christ

    I’m not saying that what someone did to you is right or wasn’t a sin. We live in a fallen world with broken people who do and say things they shouldn’t all of the time. The abuse, manipulation, and pain that you’ve experienced are real and heartbreaking. That physical or mental trauma matters—because you matter.

    What I am saying is that before we respond to situations, we need to think. We need to make sure that our priorities and our hearts are right and not right in the sense of the world, but right in the sense of being aligned with Christ and what the Scriptures say. Why? Because doing so can prevent heartache, words spoken too soon, and reactions based on emotions rather than fairness.

    I’m an emotional person. I’ve experienced tragedy, heartache, heartbreak, trauma, and pain. But I’m learning to realize those around me aren’t the enemy. I hope this post can encourage you to learn and do the same. 

    It’s not going to be easy. It’s also not a one-and-done process. Remember, there are no quick fixes or simple answers in this life. But over time, as we allow the Spirit to work in and through us, it’s worth it.

    The next time you’re in a heated room and you feel yourself growing antsy, take a deep breath and ask yourself, “What are my priorities, and have I checked my heart?” Your husband, significant other, best friend, sister, brother, mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, aunt, teacher, professor, boss, you name it, isn’t the enemy. And he will do anything and everything to convince you that he isn’t. Stand on guard. Know who the bad guy really is and call him out—not those you love.

    Agape, Amber

    Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/fizkes

    Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.

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    Amber Ginter

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  • A Marriage Checklist for Christians

    A Marriage Checklist for Christians

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    If you are dating or engaged, thoughts about marriage are bound to pass through your mind. It’s good to ask questions about whether or not you are ready. Take your time thinking about them because they will help you considerably. Most importantly, talk with God about your thoughts and be honest with Him. It’s okay if you don’t feel ready for marriage right away or unsure if you’re with “the one.” Take your time and see where God leads. 

    Read through this checklist to ensure you’re doing all you can to follow God’s lead in marriage:

    Are You Consulting God? 

    Consulting with God is the best thing to do when you are unsure about whether you are ready or not for marriage. Marriage is a huge step and something that should not be taken lightly. Marriage is a sacred covenant before the eyes of God. Once you are married to someone, you both become one flesh (Genesis 2:24). As we can see, this is a huge commitment and one that endures throughout our lives. 

    This is why you must make sure you really know a person and want to spend your life with them. Divorce is only biblical if your spouse is unfaithful to you or abuses you (Matthew 5:32). Abuse goes against God’s design for marriage as detailed by the Apostle Paul (Ephesians 5:22-33). You shouldn’t divorce someone just because you are tired of them or you aren’t attracted to them anymore. Keep this in mind when you are considering marriage because it is a lifelong commitment and can be hard in certain seasons.

    Go to God with all of your worries, fears, and concerns. If you are unsure about marriage right now, tell God about it. If you are really excited to get married right now, tell God about that too. It is normal to feel nervous and scared at times to take this next big step, but it is also important to know that if you are marrying the right person you should feel safe and secure with them. If you are having doubts, it is important to bring them up to the Lord.

    Ask the Lord to help you figure out whether you are ready for marriage or not. He will use the Word to help point you in the right direction. If you are ready for marriage and are with the right person, it will be made known to you. However, if it is too soon for you to get married or if you are with the wrong person, God will also make that known to you. God wants you to be happy and sometimes that means waiting a little bit longer. 

    This does not mean you have to end things with your partner; however, it does mean maybe you should take things a bit slower. If you have only recently met, it might be best to wait a little while longer before you start talking about marriage. However, if you have been dating for a while and truly know each other, love each other, and are willing to commit to each other, then it’s good to go ahead and start thinking about marriage. God will give you clarity if you ask Him. 

    Are You Talking with Trusted Believers and Heeding Their Advice? 

    It’s also important to talk with other trusted believers when you are trying to answer the question of whether you are ready for marriage or not. They can be a great unbiased resource to help point you in the right direction. Not only this, but they will also be able to pray for you and ask God to make His will known to you. Trusted believers will be able to help you answer these hard questions, and if they are truly your friends, they won’t be afraid to give you their honest opinions.

    If you are relatively young, know that marriage is not a race. Trusted Christians in your life will also help remind you of this truth. If you are a teenager, know that it might be best to wait a few years before you decide to get married. It’s wise to wait and truly know the person before you commit your life to them. While many people might see this as restrictive, it is extremely helpful. Take your time and don’t feel like you have to marry the first person you meet. 

    Consult with trusted believers and listen to their input. Be open-minded and do not allow pride to get in the way of truly hearing them out. Older and wiser Christians will be able to help you in ways that your own thoughts cannot. You have to be willing to listen to them and truly think about what they are telling you. Marriage is a beautiful thing, but it should not be something that is rushed into.  

    Are You Being Open with Your Partner? 

    In order to know if you are ready for marriage, you need to be open with your partner. If you are engaged and are having doubts, be open with them about it. Maybe you are worried about something in their past or you are afraid of something in your own past. If you are already engaged, this should be a sign that your partner really cares about you and wants to spend their life with you. If you know their love is unwavering, you shouldn’t be afraid to share your worries and concerns.

    Don’t downplay this or make this less important than it is. If you are going to marry them, they should be a Christian, which means they should treat you and love you as Jesus treats and loves the Church. If the person you are dating or engaged to is not a believer, then it is time to end the relationship.

    Is the Person a Christian Who Loves Jesus? 

    The Bible is clear that marriage should only be between one male believer and one female believer. As a Christian, you are commanded not to be unequally yoked with an unbeliever (2 Corinthians 6:14). I mention this point because there are many Christians who marry unbelievers, and their marriages are broken because both people aren’t built upon God. If your marriage is not built upon God, it will fall.

    You need to marry a believer because only a Christian will be able to lead you in the Lord, love you as Jesus loves the Church, and truly want the best for you as you grow in your relationship with the Lord. An unbeliever will not be able to help you grow in your walk with Christ nor will they love you as Jesus loves the Church. Choose to only date believers, and this will ensure you are marrying someone you are truly compatible with in life, love, and faith. 

    Marriage is a beautiful thing and it gives you the opportunity to serve Christ through your marriage. Consult God, talk with other trusted believers, and be open with your significant other. Between all these things, you will be able to know if you are ready for marriage. 

    Photo Credit: ©Sandy Millar/Unsplash

    Vivian Bricker loves Jesus, studying the Word of God, and helping others in their walk with Christ. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts and Master’s degree in Christian Ministry with a deep academic emphasis in theology. Her favorite things to do are spending time with her family and friends, reading, and spending time outside. When she is not writing, she is embarking on other adventures.

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    Vivian Bricker

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  • Grandma’s pasta salad recipe is a summer backyard bbq tradition

    Grandma’s pasta salad recipe is a summer backyard bbq tradition

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    Editor’s note: This is part of The Know’s series, Staff Favorites. Each week, we will offer our opinions on the best Colorado has to offer for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities and more. (We’ll also let you in on some hidden gems).

    Growing up in my household, summer was synonymous with pasta salad.

    At every backyard barbecue, birthday or casual lunch, my grandma’s version is requested. And every friend that gives it a try begs for the recipe.

    Tri-color rotini pasta makes a bright base for a bounty of Italian toppings, (everything but the kitchen sink) like black and green olives, mozzarella, artichokes and pepperoni. The best part is seeing what ingredients picky people leave behind on their plates. My brother isn’t a fan of celery, while I usually leave the black olives behind. But each component is crucial to the formula.

    A couple of years ago, we made a cookbook featuring all of our grandmother’s recipes, and the most worn-out page is already the coveted pasta salad recipe.

    We pretty much eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and if one family member makes it for themselves, the rest come flocking with Tupperware in hand. I don’t remember a life without Anita Schneider’s pasta salad, and I don’t want to. So, if you want to be the MVP of your next summer party, test out the recipe below:

    Anita Schneider’s Pasta Salad:

    This recipe takes 40 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes to cook. Serves 8.

    Ingredients

    1 1-lb package of Tri-color Rotini Pasta (Pasta LaBella)

    1 can sliced black olives (3.8 oz)

    1 jar sliced green olives (10 oz)

    1 can quartered artichokes

    1 carton of grape tomatoes (halved)

    Small packaged sliced Pepperoni (mini if you can find)

    8 oz package of mozzarella cheese

    Chopped celery (1 or 2 stalks)

    Black pepper to taste

    1 bottle Creamy Italian salad dressing (Kraft)

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    Lily O'Neill

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  • How to Grow Ramps in a Pot, Plus a Recipe for Ramp Leaf Quiche

    How to Grow Ramps in a Pot, Plus a Recipe for Ramp Leaf Quiche

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    Above: The blind-baked pastry shell is filled with custard and ramp leaves.

    Ramp Leaf Quiche

    Makes 1 x 9-inch quiche (springform pan)

    Equal parts luxury and restraint, the savory and creamy custard for this ramp leaf quiche is so good that I like to use a springform pan that holds a far-larger-than-traditional quiche. The blind baking step is essential for that crisp-bottomed crunch. If you don’t do cream and milk, canned coconut milk is a good substitute.

    For a spring party, this recipe also makes 22 tartlets, if you use all the pastry-scraps, a 3¾-inch cookie-cutter, and bake in a 12-slot muffin tray (still using beans for baking blind). The quichelets take about 20 minutes to bake once filled with custard.

    Pastry

    • 6 oz flour
    • 3 oz cold butter
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 large egg, whisked
    • 2 Tablespoons cold water
    • Extra butter for the pan

    Ramp Leaf Filling

    • 1½ cups whipping cream
    • 4 large egg yolks
    • 1 large whole egg
    • ¼ teaspoon salt
    • 3 mature ramp leaves, rolled into tubes and sliced very thinly

    Pastry: Grate the cold butter into the flour in a large bowl (if you don’t have a grater, cut the butter thinly). Rub the butter and flour between your fingers until the mixture resembles even crumbs (some larger pieces of butter are fine). Add salt and toss with your fingers. Make a well and add the egg with the cold water. Using a fork to whisk the egg with the water together in the well, then slowly incorporate the surrounding flour mixture. When larger clumps form you can bring them together with your hands. Knead a few times to blend, then pat into a fat disc (about 1½ inches fat), wrap, and chill for two hours.

    To bake the pastry: Pre-heat the oven to 350°F.

    Butter a 9-inch springform pan. Line the bottom with a round of baking parchment. Roll the pastry out thinly. Wrap the pastry sheet around your roller and lower it gently into the pan. The pastry will hang over the sides. Transfer to the fridge to chill for 15 minutes. After it has chilled, trim the overhanging edges carefully, leaving some overlap, with a very sharp knife or pair of scissors. (You can save the scraps and bake them into crunchy canapés seasoned with herb salt or cheese.)

    Line the inside of the pastry with a large piece of baking parchment that comes up well over the sides. Add 3 cups of dry beans (or rice), mounding the beans towards the sides. This helps to keep the pastry edges in place as they bake. Transfer to the oven and bake for 15 minutes.

    After 15 minutes remove the pan from the oven. Carefully lift out the lining with the beans, taking care not to damage the sides of the pastry shell. Return the springform pan to the oven for another 10 – 15 minutes. It is done when the base and edges are golden and crisp. Remove from oven and place on a wire cooling rack. When it is cool, loosen the pan sides and peel off the parchment lining under the pastry-base. Return the pastry shell to the springform pan.

    Filling: In a bowl, use a fork to beat together the cream, milk, and eggs (I find that an actual whisk makes too many bubbles). Add the salt, and beat again. Add the slivers of ramp leaves and stir.

    Pour the filling gently into the pastry case (still in its pan) and transfer to the oven. Bake for 35 – 40 minutes, until the center of the custard custard does not jiggle when given a slight shove (an inserted skewer should come out clean). Remove from the oven.

    Loosen the sides of the springform and gently remove it from the ramp leaf quiche. Either cool it on a wire rack, or serve hot: Use a long spatula to slide the quiche from the base of the baking pan onto a serving plate.

    See also:

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  • SHRIMP SALAD – Easy Recipe

    SHRIMP SALAD – Easy Recipe

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    This Shrimp Salad is really easy to make and has a great flavor. Great on a hot day or the perfect appetizer with Ritz crackers.

    Easy Shrimp Salad

    You must also try this delicious Shrimp and Grits; it has wonderful reviews and is an excellent dish. Perfect for breakfast or dinner.

    ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE

    This shrimp salad is so easy to throw together when you need something in a hurry.  It makes a great appetizer served with assorted crackers or serve it on sandwich rolls. It goes great as a side dish to any meal.  You could double the recipe for a crowd and it keeps several days refrigerated.

    🍴KEY INGREDIENTS

    • shrimp
    • celery
    • onion or green onions
    • celery seed
    • salt
    • black pepper
    • mayonnaise
    • honey Dijon mustard
    • old bay seasoning
    • dill weed (optional)
    • lemon juice (optional)

    SWAPS

    This is a very simple recipe and you can add other seasonings you like as well. Cucumber would be great in this dish too, so add what you love.

    🍽️HOW TO MAKE

    Recipes like this are always super easy and since all you need to do is combine the ingredients and mix with a spoon. Chill for a bit and enjoy! The longest part of this process is chopping up the vegetables.

    If you don’t use cooked shrimp you will need to cook it and let it chill. We buy the cooked kind for this salad, it just saves time!

    Easy Shrimp SaladEasy Shrimp Salad

    ⭐TIP

    Use already cooked shrimp to save time with this salad. You can use whatever size shrimp you prefer we use medium sized shrimp.

    OTHER SHRIMP RECIPES

    STORING & SERVING SIZE

    This salad should always be stored in the refrigerator and it makes about 4 servings. You can easily double this recipe as a pound of shrimp isn’t a very large amount.

    Shrimp Salad

    Leigh Walkup

    This easy shrimp salad is refreshing and delicious! Super easy recipe using shrimp and the perfect appetizer or lunch dish. You can easily double this easy shrimp salad.

    Prep Time 10 minutes

    Cook Time 0 minutes

    2 hours

    Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes

    Course Appetizer, Main Course, Salad

    Cuisine American

    • 1 pound shrimp peeled, deveined and cooked
    • 1 cup chopped celery
    • 1/3 cup diced onion or can use green onions
    • 1/4 teaspoon celery seed
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
    • 1 teaspoon honey Dijon mustard
    • 1/2 teaspoon old bay seasoning
    • 1/4 teaspoon dill weed Opt.
    • 2 teaspoons lemon juice Opt.

    You can easily double this recipe. 

    Let us know by commenting below!

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    © The Southern Lady Cooks photos and text – All rights reserved. No copying, posting on other sites, or other uses allowed without written permission of the copyright holder.

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    Leigh Walkup

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  • SWEET POTATO COBBLER

    SWEET POTATO COBBLER

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    This Sweet Potato Cobbler is a wonderful dessert and a great way to enjoy sweet potatoes. This cobbler is great year round and one your family will love.

    Sweet Potato Cobbler

    If you are a fan of sweet potatoes, you will love this Sweet Potato Crescent Rolls! It’s perfect for breakfast or as a dessert.

    ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE

    This delicious Sweet Potato Cobbler is easy to make and one you will love! Great addition to any holiday menu and so good topped with whipped topping or ice cream. The spices added to this recipe is what makes this one really good. If you love sweet potatoes this easy dessert is for you! You can also make this dish in a 9X13 baking dish.

    🍴KEY INGREDIENTS

    • Sweet potatoes
    • White granulated sugar
    • Salt
    • Ground cinnamon
    • Ground nutmeg
    • All-purpose flour
    • Water from cooked sweet potatoes
    • Butter
    • Vanilla extract
    • .Crust Recipe Ingredients: 
    • All-purpose flour
    • Salt
    • Butter
    • Ice water

    SWAPS

    You can easily make this in a 9X13 if you don’t want to use an iron skillet. You can also use a premade pie crusts to save time if you like.

    🍽️HOW TO MAKE

    Making the crust for this recipe can be a little time-consuming, but you can easily use a premade crust if you want.

    Step 1
    Cover the sliced or chopped sweet potatoes with water and boil just long enough to soften. This takes about 10 minutes. They should be soft enough that you can stick a fork through them. Drain and save 1 1/2 cups of the water from boiling the sweet potatoes. In a bowl whisk together the sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and flour.

    Step 2
    Spray a 10 inch iron skillet with cooking spray or you could use a 9 x 13 baking dish. Dump in the cooked sweet potatoes, pour the 1 1/2 cups water over the potatoes. Mix in vanilla extract. Sprinkle on the sugar and spices. Cut up the 5 tablespoons butter in pieces on top. Then make your crust or you could use a bought pie crust on top.

    Full recipe in printable recipe card below.

    Sweet Potato CobblerSweet Potato Cobbler

    OTHER SWEET POTATO RECIPES

    STORING, REHEATING & SERVING SIZE

    We store this in the refrigerator, reheat in the microwave and makes about 8 servings.

    Iron Skillet Sweet Potato Cobbler

    Anne Walkup

    This Skillet Sweet Potato Cobbler is one you will love. Great way to enjoy sweet potatoes, wonderful dessert and perfect for any occasion.

    Prep Time 15 minutes

    Cook Time 35 minutes

    Total Time 50 minutes

    Course Cobbler, Dessert

    Cuisine American, southern

    Cobbler

    • 4 medium sweet potatoes peeled and sliced or chopped (about 6 or 7 cups)
    • 1 cup white granulated sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon salt
    • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
    • 1 1/2 cups water from cooked sweet potatoes
    • 5 tablespoons butter
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

    Crust Ingredients

    • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 5 tablespoons butter softened
    • About 10 tablespoons ice water

    • Cover the sliced or chopped sweet potatoes with water and boil just long enough to soften. This takes about 10 minutes. They should be soft enough that you can stick a fork through them. Drain and save 1 1/2 cups of the water from boiling the sweet potatoes. In a bowl whisk together the sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg and flour.

    • Spray a 10 inch iron skillet with cooking spray or you could use a 9 x 13 baking dish. Dump in the cooked sweet potatoes, pour the 1 1/2 cups water over the potatoes. Mix in vanilla extract. Sprinkle on the sugar and spices. Cut up the 5 tablespoons butter in pieces on top. Then make your crust or you could use a bought pie crust on top.

    Crust Instructions

    • Mix salt into flour. Cut butter into flour until resembles course crumbs. Add water until you can work with dough. Roll out on a floured surface and place over cobbler in skillet or baking dish.

    • Bake cobbler in a preheated 400 degree oven for 35 to 40 minutes until crust is brown on top. Can brush crust with melted butter or egg white for better browning.

    Keyword Iron Skillet Sweet Potato Cobbler

    Let us know by commenting below!

    Follow us on Pinterest!

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    Join 1000’s of others and start a subscription today. Full of new recipes, inspiring stories, country living, and much more.

    © The Southern Lady Cooks photos and text – All rights reserved. No copying, posting on other sites, or other uses allowed without written permission of the copyright holder.

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    Anne Walkup

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  • How to Forgive When Your Offender Is Not Sorry

    How to Forgive When Your Offender Is Not Sorry

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    Have you ever loaned money to a friend with a promise of repayment, but the debt was never satisfied? Or perhaps you sold an item but didn’t receive the money you were due? As a matter of justice, we want accounts to be kept. We want others to pay what they owe.

    One of my first jobs involved debt collection. Thankfully, I didn’t work for a sleazy agency that harassed poor people who had no money. Instead, I worked for a corporation that sold products and called other businesses to remind them about overdue invoices. Many times, people appreciated the nudge and paid their bills. In these cases, the company could continue to buy products and services in a mutually beneficial business relationship.

    When the company did not pay the debt, however, it could no longer purchase products. The business relationship was broken.

    The debt of sin breaks relationships, too.

    I remember my broken heart in third grade when my best friend said something mean. I hid and cried all through recess. That relationship never recovered. Little did I know life would grow more difficult. A few years later, my father’s neglect and my parents’ divorce damaged my family and skewed future adult relationships.

    Since then, I’ve endured much worse offenses. I cannot think of any sin more painful than an attack against an innocent person I love. Must I forgive? And how could I possibly restore the relationship? What if the offender’s not sorry? I’ve wept and wrestled with these questions as I sought to imitate Jesus. In the process, I’ve learned more about what forgiveness is—and is not.

    The First Broken Relationship 

    Before Adam and Eve sinned, they enjoyed perfect fellowship with God. They walked and talked with Him in a transparent relationship. God revealed Himself to them, and they hid nothing from Him. The Bible says, “The man and his wife were both naked, but they felt no shame” (Genesis 2:25 NLT).

    When Adam and Eve sinned, their seamless connection with God was torn. Fear gripped them because they owed God a debt for their transgression, but they had no way to pay. Just as monetary debts do not disappear when a person physically dies, the spiritual death of Adam and Eve did not cancel their obligation to God. The debt of sin passed down through generations and still torments people today.

    In His infinite mercy, God provided a temporary solution for the growing debt of His people. He accepted the sacrifice of animals to cover their sins. Later, God sent His Son, Jesus, to accept the penalty so people would no longer need to offer animals. His death on the cross paid off the entire crushing balance of sin for all people. If you have trusted Jesus for salvation, then your debt of sin is paid in full.

    We must never forget the sacrifice of His Son cost Father God dearly. He and Jesus had always enjoyed perfect unity since before time began. They, along with the Holy Spirit, are one. If you are a parent of a child who’s been hurt, you can understand a small taste of Father God’s anguish as He watched evil people torture and kill His innocent Son.

    God’s Command

    While Jesus lived on earth, He taught us to pray to God about our sins. He instructed us to say, “And forgive us our sins, for we ourselves also forgive everyone who is indebted to us. And do not lead us into temptation” (Luke 11:4 NASB).

    Jesus showed us a pattern to follow regarding sin. When we disobey God, we should repent and ask for pardon. In response, He washes away guilt and restores us to a right relationship with Him. This pattern carries over into our relationships with others. If someone offends us, they should show remorse and ask for our forgiveness. Following God’s example, we forgive their debt to us (Colossians 3:13).

    The Burden of Unforgiveness

    What happens when someone can’t—or won’t—ask for forgiveness? Or perhaps they say they’re sorry, but then continue to commit the same sin. Peter posed this critical question to Jesus when he asked, “Lord, how often should I forgive someone who sins against me? Seven times?” (Matthew 18:21 NLT). Essentially, Peter wanted to know when his responsibility to forgive ended.

    When we neglect or refuse to forgive the sins of others, we become like a collection agency. The debt of their sin weighs us down with an obligation to make them pay. At first, we may relish the prospect of extracting restitution from the person who wronged us.

    Over time, though, the task of debt collection grows burdensome. When the offender does not meet our expectations, our hearts harden toward them. If we continue the relationship, resentment may seep in. A feeling of superiority—pride—follows close on the heels of resentment. Over time, bitterness develops and gives Satan a foothold in our lives. The weight of the debt prevents us from obeying God’s mandate to love this offending neighbor as ourselves.

    Jesus answered Peter’s question about how often to forgive: “’No, not seven times,’ Jesus replied, ‘but seventy times seven!’” (Matthew 18:22 NLT). I can imagine Peter’s heart must have plummeted when he heard these words. Impossible!

    Seventy times seven is a figure of speech that means no limits. Jesus intends for us to forgive the coworker who gossips behind our back every day. The neighbor who bothers us with loud parties. The jealous sibling who always stirs up trouble. The spouse who broke vows. And even the person who victimized a loved one. This elevated standard of forgiveness would be impossible without the help of God’s Spirit.

    Forgiveness means giving up our claim against the person who sinned against us. Depending on the nature of the offense, a pardon may also include the restoration of a broken relationship. When restoration is reasonable and safe, trust must be earned.

    While reunification may not be possible or prudent in every instance, God always wants us to forgive.

    Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/seb_ra

    6 Steps in the Process of Forgiveness

    Empowered by the Holy Spirit within us, we can release control of debt collection to God and forgive every offense.

    1. Meditate on the suffering and death Jesus endured to forgive all sins. 

    Picture yourself at the foot of the cross of Jesus. Remember, the blood He shed covers every person’s transgressions, including the ones that hurt you. Ultimately, offenses are, first and foremost, against God. But we often get caught in the crossfire of sin. Let’s not shortchange the value of Jesus’ extreme sacrifice with a refusal to apply His shed blood to every sin we’ve suffered at the hands of others.

    Here’s a link you could use on this topic: https://annieyorty.com/gods-person/the-crossfire-of-sin/

    2. With God, lament the offense you’ve suffered.

    In this necessary step, pour out your heart to God about the full scope of the sin against you. If the offense is minor, this process may be quick and easy. But life-changing hurts can take more time as you talk to God about the tendrils of pain that have crept into every area of your life. This is not the time to minimize or excuse. Be honest with Him about the effects of the other person’s actions on your life. If you think of the offense as a plant, you want to apply the power of Jesus’ sacrifice not only to the leaves and fruit, but also all the way down to the deepest root.

    3. In prayer, turn the responsibility of debt collection for sins against you over to Jesus.

    As the One who paid the penalty, He may choose if and when to exact payment from the offender. Thank Jesus for relieving you of the weight of this responsibility.

    4. Release the person who sinned against you from their debt.

    In your own words and in the presence of Jesus, follow this pattern:

    [Name of person], I choose to forgive and release you for [name the offense]. I will no longer expect you to repay me in any way. This offense is now between you and God. I trust Him to deal with you according to His wisdom, justice, and mercy.

    5. Speaking again to God, express your desire for God’s best for the person who has hurt you.

    Jesus said, “Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you” (Luke 6:28 NLT). If you struggle to bless the offender, ask God to give you faith to trust and obey Him. He gives power to see the person who sinned against you through His eyes of love and compassion.

    6. Conclude in prayer with gratitude for the mercy God has shown to you.

    Dear Father God, I’m grateful for Your tender mercy toward me. Through Jesus, I have forgiveness for my own sins. You also carry the burden of offenses committed against me so my life won’t be controlled by bitterness and malice. You give me comfort and peace when I come to You. I trust You to bring justice to my situation in Your perfect timing, so I’ll turn over the offender’s debt to Your capable hands. I pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

    Live Unburdened

    God’s forgiveness of our sins is always complete and lasting. But our forgiveness of others may sometimes need to be renewed. If old feelings resurface, we may once again feel the weight of unforgiveness. At these times, we can run to God and regain inner peace by going through the steps of forgiveness again.

    Whether the offender is sorry or not, this process of forgiveness allows us to exchange the burden of exacting justice for the peace of God. We can trust Him to handle every offense against us.

    Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/evgenyatamanenko

    Writer Annie YortyAnnie Yorty writes and speaks to encourage others to perceive God’s person, presence, provision, and purpose in the unexpected twists and turns of life. Married to her high school sweetheart and living in Pennsylvania, she mothers a teen, two adult children (one with intellectual disabilities), and a furry beast labradoodle. She has written From Ignorance to Bliss: God’s Heart Revealed through Down Syndrome. Please connect with her at http://annieyorty.com/, Facebook, and Instagram.

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    Annie Yorty

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  • RANCH PASTA SALAD

    RANCH PASTA SALAD

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    This Ranch Pasta Salad is one you will make over and over again. It is super versatile and a wonderful favorite year round. The homemade dressing is a game changer!

    Ranch Pasta SaladRanch Pasta Salad

    If you love pasta salads you will want to try this Bow Tie Pasta Salad! It’s loaded in vegetables and perfect for any gathering.

    ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE

    We love the homemade Ranch on this salad, it just gives it a great flavor and really blends the vegetables. You could always add pepperoni, rotisserie chicken, chopped ham to this salad to make it more of a meal. Super versatile and always a hit!

    🍴KEY INGREDIENTS

    • Rotini pasta (could use any kind of pasta you like)
    • Ripe olives, weight 6 ounces, drained, chopped (optional)
    • Real bacon bits
    • Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
    • Green onion, chopped (or about 3 onions)
    • Cherry tomatoes, cut in half (could use more or 1 large tomato, chopped and drained)
    • Cucumber, coarsely chopped

    Dressing Ingredients:

    • Mayonnaise or salad dressing (your preference)
    • Buttermilk
    • Sour cream
    • Dried parsley flakes
    • Garlic powder
    • Black pepper
    • Salt
    • Dillweed

    SWAPS

    You can add any vegetables you like to this and remove any you don’t. It’s a salad that will work with just about anything, and it’s always a hit!

    🍽️HOW TO MAKE

    This salad is super easy, the longest part is taking the time to chop up all the delicious vegetables!

    Step 1
    Prepare pasta according to package directions for salad pasta draining and running under cold water.  Let pasta cool while you prepare other ingredients.

    Step 2
    Mix all together in a large salad bowl and add homemade ranch dressing made with recipe below.  

    Step 3
    Let cool in the refrigerator for several hours before serving or overnight. 

    Ranch Pasta SaladRanch Pasta Salad

    ⭐TIP

    This salad will keep for a few days in the refrigerator, if it becomes dry just add some mayo. Also this dressing is one of our favorites, you an double it and put it in a mason jar and enjoy it on other salads, dip veggies in it, etc.

    OTHER RANCH SALADS

    STORING & SERVING SIZE

    We store this in an air tight container in the refrigerator and it makes about 10-12 servings.

    Ranch Pasta Salad

    Anne Walkup

    This ranch pasta salad is so refreshing on a summer day. Make this to enjoy with family and friends for any gathering. The ranch dressing is delicious too!

    Prep Time 20 minutes

    let chill overnight or a few hours 4 hours

    Total Time 4 hours 20 minutes

    Course Salad

    Cuisine American, southern

    • 8 ounces salad rotini pasta could use any kind of pasta you like
    • 1 can medium pitted ripe olives weight 6 ounces, drained, chopped
    • 1/4 cup real bacon bits
    • 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded
    • 1/2 cup green onion chopped (or about 3 onions)
    • 12 cherry tomatoes cut in half (could use more or 1 large tomato, chopped and drained)
    • 1 cup cucumber coarsely chopped

    Ranch Dressing Ingredients

    • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or salad dressing your preference
    • 1/2 cup buttermilk
    • 1/2 cup sour cream
    • 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
    • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
    • 1/4 teaspoon salt
    • 1/8 teaspoon dillweed

    • Prepare pasta according to package directions for salad pasta draining and running under cold water. Let pasta cool while you prepare other ingredients.

    • Mix all together in a large salad bowl and add homemade ranch dressing made with recipe below. Let cool in refrigerator for several hours before serving or overnight. Makes about 10 to 12 servings. Serve over lettuce or as is. (Note: This salad will keep in the refrigerator for several days. If becomes dry after a few days, add more mayo.)

    Can easily add cooked chicken, pepperoni, salami, ham, etc. 

    Keyword ranch pasta salad

    Let us know by commenting below!

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    Anne Walkup

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  • Where Does the Bible Draw the Line Between Conflict and Emotional Abuse?

    Where Does the Bible Draw the Line Between Conflict and Emotional Abuse?

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    Abuse comes in different forms. While we easily recognize the patterns and evidence of physical or sexual abuse, emotional abuse proves more complex. 

    Emotional abuse involves a pattern of behavior that undermines another person’s self-esteem, sense of worth, and emotional well-being. It can manifest in several different ways but leaves no visible scars, making it a challenge to detect. However, the effects of emotional abuse lead to anxiety, depression, and difficulty forming relationships. 

    At the core, abuse defiles the image of God given to every person at creation. Each human being has been made in God’s image, a special creation on this earth, and we should, therefore, treat that image with dignity and respect, no matter who a person is or what they’ve done. The image of God in every person pre-existed our actions and behavior, and this divine design within humanity forms the basis for God’s love and mercy for humanity. From this love, he seeks to redeem us back into a reconciled relationship with himself. 

    Whether emotional, physical, sexual, or religious, abuse brings violence to the image of God in a person. The Bible speaks against all abuse of authority, including the emotional. 

    What Bible verses address emotional abuse? 

    While not explicitly mentioned as “emotional abuse,” the Scripture addresses it through various verses emphasizing the importance of love, kindness, and respect for others. 

    Jesus dealt with how people treat others when teaching using the word “Raca,” a curse word, or “you fool.” Christ explains how religious leaders will punish people who use the curse word. Yet, if people curse another, saying simply, “You fool,” they are guilty of the same sin and subject to God’s judgment since all individuals have eternal value to God. 

    Ephesians 4:29 instructs believers to “Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.” Words possess power, and people have the responsibility to use uplifting language that encourages others rather than tears them down. Corrupt or abusive speech has no place in a believer’s life, and instead, they should speak kind and encouraging words.  

    Similarly, Colossians 3:19 addresses emotional abuse within marriage, instructing husbands to “love your wives and do not be harsh with them.” In Christ, spouses must treat each other with gentleness and respect rather than harsh or demeaning language that can cause harm.  

    Proverbs 15:1 offers wisdom on responding to conflict: “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.” Problems will occur, yet believers should respond kindly rather than reacting with anger, hostility, or aggression. It encourages Jesus’ followers to approach conflicts with a spirit of gentleness and humility, seeking to constructively resolve disagreements.

    Galatians 5:22-23 describes the fruit of the Spirit, which includes love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. These qualities stand in direct opposition to emotionally abusive behaviors such as manipulation, control, and verbal attacks. Instead, believers are called to draw upon the indwelling Spirit and cultivate these virtues in relationships, demonstrating love and respect toward others.

    What are the signs and elements of emotional abuse? 

    Emotional abuse may not have the same outward evidence, so we must learn to recognize the signs and examples of emotional abuse to address the harmful behavior. 

    Criticism appears as a key sign. This involves constant belittling, name-calling, or demeaning remarks to undermine a person’s self-confidence and sense of worth. For example, a partner who consistently criticizes their spouse’s appearance, intelligence, or abilities engages in emotional abuse. 

    This criticism brings us to the next sign, manipulation, which takes many forms, including gaslighting, guilt-tripping, or using threats to control another’s behavior. A parent might manipulate their child by constantly threatening to withhold love or affection unless he or she meets certain demands and engages in emotional abuse. 

    Those who engage in emotional abuse seek to isolate others. This entails removing sources of support, such as friends, family, or social activities, to exert control. As an example, a parter who prevents their spouse from seeing friends or family members to limit access to outside perspectives and support.

    Emotional abuse often involves invalidating a person’s feelings and experiences. This can include dismissing their concerns, minimizing their emotions, or refusing to acknowledge their needs. For example, a boss who consistently ignores an employee’s complaints regarding workplace harassment engages in emotional abuse.

    For the net element, the abuser uses threats and intimidation to maintain control over a person, usually involving threats of physical violence or more subtle forms like menacing gestures. A caregiver who threatens to harm an elderly relative if they speak out about the abuse engages in emotional harm. 

    Another form of emotional abuse happens when controlling a person’s access to financial resources and using money to manipulate them. This includes withholding money, controlling access to bank accounts, or sabotaging the victim’s employment opportunities. For example, a partner who controls all household finances and refuses to allow the spouse any money independence. 

    Lastly, emotional abuse often involves blame-shifting and refusal to take personal responsibility. This can manifest through constantly shifting blame onto the victim, denying any wrongdoing, or refusing to apologize for hurtful behavior. A parent who blames their child for their own abusive behavior, claiming they provoked it, engages in emotional abuse.

    How can religion or the church be guilty of emotional abuse? 

    Since Christians are human, the Church can be guilty of emotional abuse when certain beliefs, practices, or teachings are used to manipulate, control, or harm individuals’ emotional well-being. While many churches strive to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, instances of emotional abuse still occur.

    One way churches engage in emotional abuse happens through leaders misusing their authority. Leaders who wield their influence in coercive or manipulative ways create an environment of fear, guilt, or shame among the congregation. These leaders use tactics like authoritarian rule, micromanagement of personal lives, or imposing strict or unreasonable moral standards under threat of ostracism or other punishment. Such tactics undermine people’s autonomy and self-worth, leading to emotional distress and dependency on the church for validation and approval.

    Certain scriptural interpretations perpetuate beliefs that contribute to emotional abuse. For example, teachings that emphasize submission to authority without question or condemning dissenting views foster a fearful and controlling community atmosphere. Doctrines that emphasize sin, guilt, and punishment without offering grace, forgiveness, and redemption exacerbate feelings of shame and unworthiness.

    Finally, the culture and dynamics within a church community also play a significant role in perpetuating emotional abuse. Toxic church cultures characterized by gossip, judgmental attitudes, and exclusionary practices create an environment of fear and mistrust among members. This leads to social ostracism, bullying, or emotional manipulation, particularly for those who deviate from the perceived norms or expectations of the community.

    How can Christians avoid emotional abuse? 

    We avoid emotional abuse by following the Lord Jesus Christ’s example and adhering to his principles of love, kindness, and compassion. Here are several ways Christians promote a culture of emotional health and well-being within their communities. 

    1. Cultivate a culture of love and acceptance. Jesus calls us to love one another as he loved us (John 13:34-35). This means accepting others unconditionally, regardless of their background, beliefs, or behaviors. By fostering a culture of love and acceptance, we create spaces where individuals feel valued, respected, and supported.
    2. Practice empathy and compassion. Christ demonstrated empathy and compassion towards hurting or marginalized people (Matthew 9:36). We follow his example by actively listening to others, validating their feelings, and offering support and encouragement during distressing times. 
    3. Speak words of encouragement and affirmation. Proverbs 16:24 teaches, “Gracious words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones.” Words have power, and we properly use words to build others up and speak life to them and their circumstances. Offering encouraging, affirming, and thankful words uplift the spirits of those who struggle and provide them hope for the future. 
    4. Create safe spaces for vulnerability and authenticity. Romans 12:15 encourages us to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” When we create these safe spaces within our communities, individuals feel comfortable expressing emotions, sharing struggles, and seeking support without fear of judgment or condemnation.  
    5. Provide pastoral care and counseling. “Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way, you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) Problems and abuses will occur, and churches should offer pastoral care and counseling to those experiencing emotional distress or difficult circumstances. We can be part of the healing instead of perpetuating the problem. Providing a listening ear, offering guidance and support, and connecting people with further resources make a significant difference in healing. 
    6. Practice forgiveness and reconciliation. Ephesians 4:32 urges us, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” The Bible continually tells us to forgive others, which we couldn’t do unless someone hurt us. Unforgiveness becomes a toxin within our hearts, so we promote emotional health and well-being through practicing forgiveness and reconciliation in relationships. Extending grace and forgiveness to those who have wronged us breaks the cycle of hurt and bitterness, enabling us to restore wholeness.  
    7. Recognize and Call Out Abuse. From Matthew 21:12-13: “Jesus entered the temple courts and drove out all who were buying and selling there. He overturned the tables of the money changers and the benches of those selling doves. ‘It is written,’ he said to them, ‘My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers.’” We must all be on guard against emotional abuse, and all abuse. The faith community should be a place where the image of God is valued and dignified, and when abuse occurs, we must address people and situations with love and grace, offering restoration and repentance while standing against and decrying the abuse. 

    By following these principles, we promote healthy emotional communities in which we value all people and offer hope and love to those who are hurting or in need. 

    Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/seb_ra

    Britt Mooney lives and tells great stories. As an author of fiction and non -iction, he is passionate about teaching ministries and nonprofits the power of storytelling to inspire and spread truth. Mooney has a podcast called Kingdom Over Coffee and is a published author of We Were Reborn for This: The Jesus Model for Living Heaven on Earth as well as Say Yes: How God-Sized Dreams Take Flight.

    This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

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  • Ground Ivy: This Pretty Weed that Grows on Lawns Is Edible

    Ground Ivy: This Pretty Weed that Grows on Lawns Is Edible

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    For months, from early spring to the edges of summer, ground ivy’s tubular blue flowers announce its (often resented) presence in sunny lawns or in the high shade of garden or woodland trees. Its leaves are tiny and toothed; when nights are still cold and crisp, they are more burgundy than green, and its earliest flowers are periwinkle-blue. In lawns that are mown regularly the plants form compact, woven mats. Left to grow, they become slender and tall, festooned with flowers that turn gradually paler as the weather warms.

    Crush a stem, and sniff its leaves: minty, with an oregano undertow. Collect a handful to scatter across a salad, to muddle into a drink, or to brew into a strawberry and rhubarb cordial (find that recipe below).

    Photography by Marie Viljoen.

    Above: A lawn blooms blue with ground ivy in early spring.

    Ground ivy’s strong flavor and refreshing scent make it an appealing, low maintenance, and cold-hardy culinary herb. Botanically, it is Glechoma hederaceae, a potent perennial member of the mint family. Although it is credited with many other common names in English, the two that are most familiar are creeping Charlie and gill-over-the-ground. The latter name’s etymology give us a clue to one of its uses: “gil” is derived from guiller—to ferment, in French; ground ivy was used in beer making (Peterson, 2011). It is native to Europe and and has long been used as a medicinal, culinary, and brewing herb.

    Above: Ground ivy is impervious to mowing, and forms dense, steppable carpets.

    While its spread can be aggressive where it is not native, its threat seems to be mainly to lawns. In the context of the persistent mania for a weed-free lawn monoculture (whose success often depends on herbicide use and a lot of synthetic fertilizer), I find this lawn weed hard to dislike.

    Above: In early spring ground ivy’s leaves are tinged with burgundy, especially if it grows in full sun.

    Above: Left unmown, ground ivy can grow tall before its stems flop to the ground, where they take root.
    Above: A bowl of ground ivy on a rainy spring day.
    Above: Cucumber, salted rhubarb slices, and sheep feta with pomegranate molasses and ground ivy.

    I like to scatter its pretty flowers across salads where their piercing freshness is offset by juicy or salty elements.

    Above: Ground ivy has become one of my favorite herbs to pair with strawberries.

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  • 7 Postures for a Happy Marriage — Especially When Opposites Attract

    7 Postures for a Happy Marriage — Especially When Opposites Attract

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    My husband and I have been married for 23 years. We sometimes joke about the fact that our parents even let us get married at such an early age. Why did they let us go through with such a big decision? We had no idea what we were doing. Not that many newlyweds do.

    Mostly, we had no idea how different we were. My husband and I are total opposites in almost every way; we are not compatible on paper, at all.

    Yet we’ve done the work to make our marriage work.

    Now, 23 years later, we are church leaders and parents of three sons, and we are still doing the work of loving each other. We are often asked about the secret to making a marriage last between two opposite personalities.

    For us, a happy marriage is not so much a list of dos and don’ts, but it is a few postures and decisions we’ve chosen to adapt as marital values. Here are a few:

    1. Grab a Hold of Jesus’ Forgiveness

    Elizabeth Elliot was thought to have said something like, “A happy marriage is made up of two people who forgive each other for the rest of their lives.” Marriage between two limited, imperfect human beings requires a whole heckuva lot of forgiveness.

    And often — just being honest here — we don’t have that in us. Because of our pride or anger or human selfishness, it can be easy to hold grudges rather than choose grace. So, this is when we need to access Jesus’ unending forgiveness.

    This is when we need to posture ourselves before God and ask for help, “Jesus, give me the ability to forgive my spouse today, because you have forgiven me so much.”

    Ephesians 4:32 reminds us to “be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” This posture of forgiveness is crucial to embrace for a happy, lasting marriage.

    2. Have Fun, Be Playful, Laugh a Lot

    As I said, my hubs and I are opposites. We don’t enjoy the same activities. We don’t ever want to watch the same shows or listen to the same style of music. On paper, we are actually totally wrong for each other.

    But we are intentional about laughing together. Scripture reminds us that laughter is good medicine, good for the heart (Proverbs 17:22), and it’s just as true in the heart of a marriage.

    A couple who can laugh together can have fun together — and that’s a meaningful way to make life’s burdens lighter together.

    3. Choose Self-sacrifice

    “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). This Scripture, along with others like it, is the real work of love and marriage.

    In public, as in private, honor one other. Put the other first. Lay down each other’s lives — in the big sacrifices and the small ones — so that you are truly putting on a posture of love.

    Choose selflessness every moment you can. This can be hurtful if both spouses aren’t posturing themselves towards self-sacrifice. But if each of you is committed to that — what a beautiful picture of love you’ll display to each other and to the world around you.

    4. Know That Different Isn’t Bad

    In marriage, especially as the years go on, it can be so easy to start telling yourself a false story about your spouse — especially if you are different from one another.

    One of you might be future-oriented, while the other is in the moment, but the stories you tell yourself in that difference are where the work of marriage really comes in.

    If you begin to place a value on your differences, if you begin to assume that your spouse is bad or has shortcomings simply because he or she is different than you, your marriage will never thrive. We must remember again and again that different isn’t bad.

    In fact, our differences can be gifts that help sharpen and shape the other. Accept your differences. Learn to appreciate them. And refuse to let the stories you tell yourself about your spouse get negative or harmful.

    5. Get Help

    Go to therapy. Go to therapy. Go to therapy. There is no shame, in fact, there is only wisdom in seeking guidance from a wise counselor, especially when the pain and conflict in marriage is too much to bear. Go often. Go every few years. Get help.

    Therapy saves marriages. Period. As the sage of Proverbs said, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise person is the one who listens to counsel” (Proverbs 12:15).

    6. Repair Matters

    Healthy conflict includes healthy repair. When your nervous system has calmed down after a fight, and when you are both in a more peaceful emotional place — that is the moment to do the work of active listening, of emotional repair, and of healing.

    Especially for couples who tend to be opposites, it’s worth scheduling intentional time for repair after a conflict, and even worth pausing the conflict in the moment if you are getting too heated.

    The way you have conflict and repair that conflict’s damage matters as much as, if not more, than the actual content of the argument itself. Colossians reminds us to bear with one another and forgive each other. We do this best through intentional, ongoing emotional repair.

    7. The Grass Is Greener Where You Water It

    This posture will save many marriages. If we aren’t careful, we can tend to believe the lie that we married the wrong person or that someone else — someone more like us — would make us happy.

    But the marriage that we invest in, is the one that blossoms and grows. Make bids for affection, date, choose each other. Water your marriage and the grass will be green.

    I definitely don’t believe in any silver bullets for a successful marriage, but I do believe in a few postures — a few stances — that will help make a marriage between opposites last — and make it last with success and joy.

    Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/OJO_Images

    Aubrey Sampson is a pastor, author, speaker, and cohost of the podcast, Nothing is Wasted. She is the author of Big Feeling Days, The Louder Song, Overcomer, and her newest release, Known. Find and follow her @aubsamp on Instagram. Go to aubreysampson.com for more. 

    This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

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  • What Does Marriage Give You That Domestic Partnership Does Not?

    What Does Marriage Give You That Domestic Partnership Does Not?

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    Marriage versus domestic partnership can be a hot topic. Some people are okay with it, while others are not. With cohabitation becoming the norm and fewer people getting married, it’s no wonder this can be a confusing topic for most people. However, most people may not know that there are many things that marriage gives you that a domestic partnership doesn’t.

    Comprehensive Legal Recognition

    When people get married, both legal and federal governments recognize it.

    Tax Benefits

    Couples who are married can file their taxes jointly, thus potentially reducing their tax liability.

    Spousal Benefits

    When you get married, you automatically qualify for spouse benefits, including spousal Social Security, Medicare, public assistance, veteran’s military, and disability benefits.

    Photo credit: © Getty Images/monkeybusinessimages

    Medical Decision Making

    By being recognized as a legal union, spouses can make health decisions regarding each other and visit each other in healthcare settings.

    Inheritance Rights

    Each spouse may inherit property from each other when one spouse dies.

    Immigration Sponsorship

    One spouse can sponsor or petition for immigration on their spouse’s behalf.

    Divorce Protection

    If you and your spouse should divorce, there are laws in place that govern how divorce works compared to the messiness of a breakup in a domestic partnership.

    Higher Life Expectancy

    Married people enjoy a longer life expectancy on average, possibly because they have a healthier lifestyle and are more content with their lives.

    Better Sleep

    Studies show that being in a lasting relationship and having a partner’s presence close by helps improve sleep quality. This could be because of better health, more normalized routines, and better financial security.

    Increased Sense of Companionship and Happiness

    We can feel connected and happy without being married, like when dating. However, married couples share the highest form of intimacy and companionship a person can share with someone.

    happy couple cooking together in kitchen

    Photo credit: ©GettyImages/South_agency

    Improved Health and Lifestyle

    There is a silent contract in marriages of understanding and compromise. This means compromising on certain habits that can affect your partner, like not smoking, so they aren’t inhaling your smoke or quitting fast food so as not to tempt your partner on their diet. It’s about focusing on the positive, like eating more home-cooked meals, exercising together, and doing other things to improve your health and lifestyle. Married people also have lower rates of drug and alcohol abuse.

    Less Stress and Depression

    Marriage is associated with a lower rate of symptoms of stress and depression. This is because married couples have more emotional support and readily available advice from friends, family, and professionals. Couples also share responsibilities in marriage, which can lead to emotional fulfillment and take away the stress compared to someone who lives alone.

    An Ideal Environment to Raise Children In

    Marriage gives couples the stability and confidence to raise children together. Children are most influenced by their parents, and those who come from married households have better social skills, academic performance, and overall development compared to those from divorced or unmarried-parent households. As a former daycare teacher, I can attest to how desperately children need to be in a household with a healthy marriage. I have seen so many angry, broken, and broken-hearted kids from divorced and single-parent households. Kids need stability in every area of their lives, especially at home.

    Positive Lifestyle Changes

    Over time, married people take on each other’s habits and mannerisms. One of you could be a spender, the other a saver, or one of you could lead a less active lifestyle while the other is very active. These opposite scenarios can lead to positive changes down the line.

    Physical Security

    Knowing that you have someone with whom to share life and responsibilities gives an extra layer of physical security.

    More Social Capital

    Both parties in a marriage benefit from social capital, meaning more access to social and cultural resources, better integration into communities, and improved social interactions.

    Prestige and Pride

    When couples get married, they have a sense of pride that reflects society’s perception of them and how society treats them. This also includes tangible benefits like club memberships, invitations to social events, etc.

    No Gift Tax

    Certain monetary gifts are subject to the gift tax. However, married people are exempt from tax regardless of the amount, as long as both are citizens of the country.

    No Estate Tax

    Individuals deal with estate tax after they pass away. If the money or assets left to someone in a will exceed a certain amount, estate tax comes into play. However, with married couples, one can leave as much money as they want to their spouse.

    Happy couple husband and wife planning

    Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Ippei Naoi

    Joint Accounts

    Opening a joint account with a spouse is a great way for both parties to stay on top of things financially. Both parties being able to see what’s in the account and having monthly finance meetings helps stop conflicts in their tracks and is a great way to build trust and loyalty with your spouse.

    Combined Credit Score

    Married couples can be eligible for more lucrative loans based on their combined credit score. This is especially helpful for those who have very low credit scores.

    Advantages in Mortgages

    When both people in a marriage work, pay their bills on time, and have a decent credit score, they have access to better mortgage deals than if they were to apply for a mortgage individually. Mortgage lenders prefer married couples because they are more apt to pay their entire mortgage.

    Social Security Payouts

    When a spouse passes away, the surviving spouse receives entitlement to survivor benefits. This is common in blue-collar jobs and the military. Besides death, a spouse can avail social security payouts in other circumstances, such as if one spouse becomes disabled (especially if it’s job-related) or cannot work because of serious health issues.

    Health Insurance

    Married couples typically get a plan to cover the whole family. In the meantime, one can list their spouse as a dependent.

    Low Rent and Cost of Living

    This is a given, but being married drastically cuts expenses compared to each of you living on your own.

    Emergency Room Benefits

    If your partner is involved in a serious accident or critical medical emergency, you will not be allowed to ride in the ambulance or be present in the emergency room or ICU. If you are a spouse, then you would have these privileges.

    Right to Sue Someone on the Deceased’s Behalf

    If your spouse is involved in a willful wrongdoing, you can sue the person or entity for wrongful death. Scenarios like this usually happen in blue-collar jobs or jobs that require intense physical involvement and risks.

    Last Rites and Funeral Arrangements

    Unless stated in their spouse’s will and testament, the spouse has complete authority to plan funeral arrangements. This includes whether to cremate or bury, and, in certain cases, spouses can sign off on things like organ and retina donation.

    Family Leave

    Married couples have the benefit of being eligible for different leave, including parental leave, caretaker leave of a sick spouse, and bereavement leave for the passing of a family member.

    couple moving in, living together before marriage

    Photo credit: © Getty Images/jacoblund

    Approval in the Eyes of God

    This is the most important benefit of all, being approved in the eyes of God. He instituted marriage as the only way to cohabitate as a couple for specific reasons and to help protect his children.

    Having a Prenup

    Agreeing to a prenup and formalizing it later is a great way for couples to guarantee a fair and judicial division of assets if they get divorced.

    A Solid Foundation

    You and your partner got married because you love each other and have built your relationship on the most solid foundation you can have: God. There is something there that binds you together compared to domestic relationships, which have less foundation and security.

    A Solid Support System

    Married couples have a more stable support system, including parents, brothers and sisters, and in-laws to help during difficult and stressful situations.

    Being a Christian couple in this day and age can be very difficult, with all the conflicting opinions on what is right and wrong out there. It’s very easy to get pressured by friends to go the simple route and do what everyone else is doing. Even our churches don’t always preach what is right, sometimes bending the truth as they see fit. It’s a scary and confusing time for Christian couples. The bottom line is, God gave us marriage and all the benefits of it for a reason. It’s protecting us emotionally, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

    People wonder why they are so confused with love, when our society has twisted love and intimacy into a casual, cheap thing. Our society has turned something wonderful, like marriage, into something horrible and stifling. Marriage has so many benefits over domestic partnerships that it’s worth it for people to take a second look, read their Bibles, and see marriage as God intended it to be.

    Photo Credit: ©iStock/Getty Images Plus/fizkes

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    Carrie Lowrance

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  • How to Tell a Married Man to Back Off

    How to Tell a Married Man to Back Off

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    Disclaimer: This isn’t therapy, and Dr. Audrey’s advice is for the general audience, meaning it may not always work for everyone. 

    I have a question. It’s about confronting a married man . . . who is hitting on my wife a lot . . . the man told my wife (“Jennifer”) to keep his texts to her a secret.

    We attend the same church, and we are neighbors. The wives are friends with each other.

    I know both well, and we have hung out a lot in the past.

    The married man has suggested he was attracted to Jennifer. He told her he had a dream about her and she asked him “to be alone with her.” Perhaps he wants to justify his desire for her by imagining there’s something wrong between Jennifer and me. So he keeps asking her if she’s OK and has asked several times to go on walks around the neighborhood by themselves.

    This is what I was thinking of sending the gentleman:
    ”Jennifer mentioned to me more than once that you’ve been reaching out to her a lot and asking her to go on walks. I do appreciate that. But I think you might need to know more information about some of the things she’s experienced and her family of origin if you really want to help her. Maybe you and I can talk? And if you’re still concerned, then come over and bring your wife with you too and we can talk.” – N

    Thank you for reaching out to me. I’m sorry about the turmoil this other man has caused. 

    He might as well have waved a flaming red flag when he insisted to Jennifer she should keep his texts a secret from you, her own husband. An obsession with secrecy signals the fact that this man knew his behavior was wrong but plowed on anyway.

    I’m glad your wife confided in you about what has been going on. Score one for the unity of your marriage!

    But since you sent me the note you composed for him, let’s focus on it.

    Your words show how thoughtful you are about the entire situation. The tone you employed conveys your desire to maintain an amicable relationship with him. 

    Understandable—since the four of you are neighbors, friends, and attend the same church. 

    However, there are a couple of problems I foresee if you send the note as is. 

    Married Man, Walking with Your Wife?

    Let’s start with him asking your wife out on walks.

    If this man has been hitting on your bride, is it wise to unlock your front door and allow him to pick her up before he proceeds to stroll by her side? This behavior might fit what the Bible describes as little foxes spoiling the vines (Song of Solomon 2:15). 

    What may seem to be little, innocent things—nothing to see here, just a couple of friends sauntering the neighborhood together—can eventually demolish not one, but two, marriages. 

    Let me explain. 

    Here comes a married man who wishes to spend alone time with your wife, with the possibility of him pouring out even more of his feelings and other personal matters to her. This setup can lead Jennifer to feel obligated to do likewise and open her heart up to him. 

    That’s just human nature. We tend to mirror the behavior we see in each other.

    Besides that, it’s also natural for things to progress. A mutual sharing of feelings will eventually draw them closer to each other. In time, what began as sharing emotional intimacy can morph into other kinds of intimacy, including the physical and sexual kind. Full-blown affairs often began when two individuals confided their hearts in each other.

    God forbid things will ever go that far with your wife and this man!

    Even so, it’s unwise to let anyone else develop emotional intimacy with you—or, in this case, Jennifer. Being too emotionally intimate with anyone other than your spouse may drive a wedge into your marriage.

    Which brings me to the second problem with the note you’re proposing.

    Action Steps

    By attempting to talk to your wife without your consent (since he asked her to keep their texts from you), he’s disrespecting two people: you as Jennifer’s husband, as well as his own wife. Yet helping your wife—whether in person, through text messages, or anything else—is your responsibility. Not his.

    If Jennifer needs something, especially of an emotional nature, she can turn to you, the church, or female friends—like this guy’s wife. There’s no reason he should spend private time with your wife or repeatedly inquire if she’s okay when his wife can do the same thing.

    And even if there are problems in your marriage—a big “if”—it still doesn’t give license for this man to console your wife. 

    So, where do we go from here?

    Here are some ideas. Please pray over these recommendations with Jennifer first before communicating anything to this man. The Bible says, “One can be overpowered, but two together can put up resistance. A three-ply cord doesn’t easily snap” (Ecclesiastes 4:12, CEB). If you and Jennifer are on the same page about conveying a firm “no” to this man, your unified resistance sends a strong message to the person to back off. 

    1. No Room for an Affair

    Let him know, in no uncertain terms, how his desire for your wife is not welcome—not by her, and certainly not by you. 

    2. No Room for Secrets

    You might need to confront him directly, with you explaining how inappropriate it is for him to isolate you from your own wife. In contrast, it’s not wrong for Jennifer to tell you what this guy has been up to. You and she are one flesh (Mark 10:7-8). Whenever he tells Jennifer something, in essence, he’s also telling you the same.

    Making no room for secrets might also mean making it clear to him how he has zero private access to your wife, including through digital means. Let’s restrict all communications through group texts only. No personal voice mail. No direct messaging on social media. No clandestine emails. And, a most definite no to the two of them spending time in person without you or the man’s wife. Anything he needs to tell Jennifer, he can include you (and his wife) in the loop.

    3. Make Room to Help

    If this man is attracted to another man’s wife, one thing is clear: His marriage is in trouble.

    Which means it’s time for outside help. There are mental health professionals who are trained to help married couples. For instance, Focus on the Family runs a list of Christian therapists who are qualified for the job. 

    By you recommending this resource or pastoral counseling to him, you’re communicating two things at once: the importance of his own marriage, and your interest in helping him walk out the process. 

    Aftermath 

    I can understand if the following question pops up after reading the above:

    What if this frank discussion jeopardizes the friendship between your two families?

    Certainly, there is no need to confront him huffing and puffing. Put up firm boundaries with this man, but speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15). Having said that, if your words provoke him to scowl and raise a big stink, that’s too bad—but still, the sanctity of your marriage comes first. Jesus taught us as much: “A man shall leave his father and mother and shall be joined inseparably to his wife” (Matthew 19:5, AMP). 

    If you left behind everyone, including the two people who conceived you, in favor of Jennifer, who is this guy to wedge himself in the middle of your sacred union with her? 

    Besides, if you and Jennifer convey a clear message that neither of you is interested in her carrying out a secret relationship with this man, you’re exemplifying a righteous fight for your godly marriage. Your stance speaks volumes.

    Hopefully, it will inspire him to fight for his own.

    All the best to you and Jennifer!

    Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Fizkes

    Audrey Davidheiser, PhD is a California licensed psychologist, certified Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapist, and IFSI-approved clinical consultant. After founding and directing a counseling center for the Los Angeles Dream Center, she now devotes her practice to survivors of trauma—including spiritual abuse. If you need her advice, visit her on www.aimforbreakthrough.com and Instagram @DrAudreyD.

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    Dr. Audrey Davidheiser

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  • Is There Any Way to Repair a Broken Relationship?

    Is There Any Way to Repair a Broken Relationship?

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    Broken relationships are hard to manage. After a relationship has ended, it can be nearly impossible to repair. Many relationships might never be fully repaired, but complete healing is possible for others. It can take time and hard work, but if we really want to restore a relationship, we will put in the effort. We can see the greatest broken relationship repaired through the Lord coming down from Heaven to save us from our sins, redeem us, and repair our broken relationship with Him.

    A Repaired Relationship with God

    God repaired our broken relationship with Him by sending His Son to die for our sins. Adam and Eve disobeyed God by eating the forbidden fruit, and sin came into the world. Ever since this time, humankind’s relationship with God has been broken. It is not repaired unless a person places faith in Jesus by believing He died for their sins, was buried, and rose again (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). The way to a repaired relationship with Jesus has been opened by Jesus dying for our sins, but it is up to us as individuals to accept it.

    The Lord went to great lengths to repair our relationship with the Father. Jesus is God Himself, the second member of the Trinity. This tells us God Himself left Heaven in order to save us from our sins and fix the relationship that we broke in the first place. As we can see, Jesus loves us deeply. He would not have gone to such extreme measures unless He truly wanted to repair our relationship with the Father.

    If you have not placed faith in Jesus yet, you have a broken relationship with Him. Unless you place faith in Him and accept Him as your Savior and Lord, you will continue to be separated from Him. While the decision is ultimately up to you, it is the most important decision you will make in your entire life. Many of us think picking out a college or career path is the most critical decision we will ever make, but this is not true. The most important decision you will ever make is if you choose to place faith in Jesus or not.

    Choosing your college or career path is important, but they do not impact your eternity. The only thing that affects your eternity is whether or not you placed faith in Jesus. The world tries to trick us into thinking other things are more important, but this is a tactic of Satan. Instead of always focusing on the present, try to look forward. Think about eternity and reflect on the truth that your fate is in your hands. Jesus came down from Heaven to repair our broken relationship with the Father, but it is up to us to accept this gift.

    Repairing Relationships with Others

    When talking about broken relationships, it is also essential to discuss the topic of repairing relationships with others. Maybe you and a friend had a falling out, you and your significant other are going through a hard time, or you are having family issues. Any of these things is enough to cause you pain, stress, and anxiety. Instead of ignoring the issue, try to address it. If you want to repair the relationship, it means you care about the person and are willing to put in effort to be close with each other again.

    If you have a broken relationship with a friend, discuss it with them. Don’t text them because that will give them an easy way just to ignore you. Call them, and if they don’t answer, leave a voicemail. If possible, schedule a time to meet in person and talk about what went wrong in the friendship. If you did something wrong, apologize and mean it. If you are giving a fake apology, your friend will be able to tell, which will only worsen things.

    Talk things out and truly listen to their side of the situation. It could be you did something to hurt them. Give them a chance to share their feelings, and do not pass judgment on them. If you really want to repair a relationship with a loved one, you will make the effort and take the incentive to do hard things. The same is true for a broken relationship with a significant other or a family member. Talk with them, allow them to express their feelings, and take the time to put in the effort.

    Your relationship might not be fixed overnight, but with time, effort, and energy, the relationship could be stronger than ever in the future. There is also the chance that the individual you are trying to fix things with will not want to see or talk to you. If this is true for you, respect their decision. Give them time, and don’t push them. They will let you know if they want to talk with you in the future.

    Working on a Relationship with Yourself

    Lastly, it is also important to work on a relationship with yourself. It could be you have a negative view of yourself or you are consumed with self-hate. This is not a healthy relationship with yourself. You should not hate yourself or have a bad view of yourself. God created you wonderfully and beautifully (Psalm 139:13-16).

    If you have a bad relationship with yourself, now is the perfect time to work on fostering a better view of yourself. Our relationships with ourselves can be one of the hardest ones we will encounter because most of us are not very nice to ourselves. Instead of being kind to ourselves, as we would to a friend, we tear down ourselves and say mean things to ourselves. This is something we have to stop doing if we are going to start having a better relationship with ourselves.

    Having a bad relationship with ourselves can manifest in mental health issues and physical health issues. Instead of allowing your mental health or physical health to take a hit, try to start working on your relationship with yourself today. Start being kinder to yourself and catch yourself before you say something mean to yourself. We tend to be our own worst critic, but we will have to let go of this if we are going to heal our relationship with ourselves.

    Many people might view this as cliche; however, it is very important to cultivate a healthy view and a healthy relationship with yourself. As mentioned, if you continue to be mean to yourself and say hurtful things to yourself, it will start impacting your actions. Thoughts such as “I’m not good enough,” “I’m not pretty enough,” and “I’m too (fill in the blank)” will only leave you feeling terrible.

    These thoughts will lead you to action in the attempt to make these thoughts go away. If you have a bad relationship with yourself, no matter what you do, you will still think poorly of yourself. The problem is not with you, your body, your appearance, or your personality. The problem is the bad thoughts that you are feeding into. Choose to talk back to them and replace them with what God says.

    It will take time and effort, just like any other relationship, but it is worth it. You will always be you, which is why having a healthy relationship with yourself is important. Choosing to work on improving your relationship with yourself will benefit you in every area of life. You might even find that your relationship with God and others improves when you start working on having a better relationship with yourself.

    Photo credit: ©GettyImages/milan2099

    Vivian Bricker loves Jesus, studying the Word of God, and helping others in their walk with Christ. She has earned a Bachelor of Arts and Master’s degree in Christian Ministry with a deep academic emphasis in theology. Her favorite things to do are spending time with her family and friends, reading, and spending time outside. When she is not writing, she is embarking on other adventures.

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  • What Is the Biblical Way to Avoid Fake Friendship?

    What Is the Biblical Way to Avoid Fake Friendship?

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    The pain of losing a dear friend is unbearable, but after being stabbed in the back by a trusted confidant, choosing a friend becomes more cautious. What are some biblical directives for avoiding being or making fake, self-absorbed friends?

    King David knew about fake friends. When his son, Absalom, rebelled in an attempt to usurp the throne, David’s highly regarded counselor and advisor, Ahithophel, sided with Absalom. David’s Psalm 55:12-14 reflects the hurt. “If an enemy were insulting me, I could endure it; if a foe were rising against me, I could hide. But it is you, a man like myself, my companion, my close friend, with whom I once enjoyed sweet fellowship at the house of God as we walked about among the worshipers.”

    Another heart-wrenching betrayal is that of Judas Iscariot, once among Jesus’s disciples and closest friends. For a mere 30 pieces of silver, he facilitated Jesus’s arrest, identifying him to the authorities with a deceitful kiss. 

    Even amidst betrayal and deceit—acknowledging our imperfections—forging genuine friendships offers invaluable qualities like love, loyalty, stability, and wisdom. Despite our inevitable mistakes, lapses in judgment, and regrettable words, true friends accept us with all our flaws. Cultivating such meaningful connections demands patience, dedication, and unwavering commitment.

    Jesus painted a picture of friendship. Of the twelve He chose, one betrayed Him, and another failed Him. Though Peter denied knowing Jesus the night of His arrest, Jesus saw past that failure to Peter’s true heart. “Wounds from a friend can be trusted,” unlike the latter part of the same verse that depicts Judas, “but an enemy multiplies kisses” (Proverbs 27:6). Peter messed up.  Still, he repented, and Jesus restored him because. “Love covers over a multitude of sins” (Proverbs 10:12). 

    Jesus exemplifies the essence of true friendship. In John 15:13, he declares, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends,” embodying selfless sacrifice, unwavering support, forgiveness, wise counsel, and the sharing of values and faith. He goes on to affirm the depth of friendship in John 15:15, stating, “I no longer call you servants … Instead, I have called you friends, for everything I learned from my Father I have made known to you.” Friendship, therefore, mirrors the boundless love and eternal values of God.

    Jesus sets a high standard for friendship. Emulating His love is achievable when we choose to love others as He loves us—the second greatest commandment (Matthew 22:39). How can we do that? First of all, we recognize we are humans and fall sometimes. We pick each other up. We forgive. We have each other’s back. We treat our friends like we would like to be treated – with understanding, not holding onto a past mistake to use as a weapon later. The golden rule in Luke 6:31 really does apply: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”

    The best friendships do their best to fulfill Jesus’ mandate: “As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” – John 13:34

    True friends emulate God’s love.

    Authentic friends do their best to exhibit the traits of 1 Corinthians 13.

    “Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.8 Love never fails.”

    Consider the story of Julie and Emma. Julie and Emma have been friends since high school and have worked through their differences. However, lately, Emma tends to hold onto past grievances and brings them up whenever they disagree. When Julie was stuck in traffic and arrived 15 minutes late to their planned lunch, Emma brought up Julie’s forgetting her birthday two years ago. She accused her of being inconsiderate and unreliable. Although Julie sincerely apologizes, Emma dwells on instances where Julie let her down. Whenever Julie makes a mistake or does something to upset Emma, Emma quickly reminds her of every misstep, making Julie feel guilty and defensive. This constant dredging of past wrongs creates a toxic atmosphere in their friendship, preventing them from moving forward and resolving conflicts healthily.

    Despite Julie’s efforts to improve and make amends, she feels like she’s walking on eggshells around Emma, afraid of triggering another barrage of past grievances. Eventually, Julie begins questioning whether this friendship is worth its emotional toll on her. Genuine friendship is built on forgiveness, understanding, and letting go of past mistakes. Unlike a fake friend,

    Authentic friends exhibit good character. 

    We are to guard against being or having a friend who is easily angered, unwise, or self-seeking.   Wise and righteous besties lead to personal growth and wisdom (Proverbs 13:20), unlike hot-tempered people with negative behaviors whom we should guard against (Proverbs 22:24-25). 

    “Bad company corrupts good character.” – 1 Corinthians 15:33

    Good friends are well-informed and learning. 

    “Walk with the wise and become wise, for a companion of fools suffers harm.” Proverbs 13:20

    Becoming a better person is part of sharing a sweet friendship as we help one another be accountable to spiritual disciplines and move closer to Jesus. 

    Genuine friends listen and care. 

    Dale Carnegie’s book How to Win Friends and Influence People, one of the best-selling books of all time, says, “You can make more friends in two months by becoming interested in other people than you can in two years by trying to get other people interested in you.” When the conversation isn’t one-sided, listening and caring lend support.

    True friends accept you. 

    One of the first bonds of friendship is finding someone who shares similar values, which draws us to one another. C.S. Lewis says, “Friendship is born at the moment when one man says to another, “What! You Too: I thought I was the only one!” 

    A true friend rejoices over your success. 

    Good friends support us in hard times and success. Oscar Wilde said, “Anybody can sympathize with the sufferings of a friend, but it requires a very fine nature to sympathize with a friend’s success.” Proverbs 3 encourages us that wisdom bestows well-being. “Let love and faithfulness never leave you…then you will win favor and a good name in the sight of God and man.” (3:3-4). 

    Genuine friendships endure. 

    For decades, even before the arrival of our children, a cherished couple has been priceless companions in our lives, particularly during our most challenging moments. Despite the physical distance that now separates us, the bonds we forged through shared family vacations, meals, prayers, laughter, and tears have left indelible marks on our hearts. Though miles may divide us, the enduring seeds of friendship sown over the years keep us connected as invaluable treasures to one another.

    Ruth Graham said that when we haven’t seen a dear friend for a while, or even years, it’s like a good book: You pick up where you left off, and a new chapter begins.

    Love never fails. 

    True friendship has consistent support and trust. Love always “protects, trusts, hopes, and perseveres (1 Corinthians 13:7). And that kind of love doesn’t keep a record of wrongs. Such friends refrain from a “me-first” mentality with selfish motives. Anger is quickly dealt with in a forgiving way that holds no grudges. 

    Is there biblical wisdom to guide us away from fake friendships? 

    Yes, indeed. The key lies in embracing the biblical principle: “Lay down your life for your friends,” carried out through the practical application of 1 Corinthians 13:4-8.  True friends emulate God’s love, possess healthy character, offer acceptance, attentive listening, and unwavering support. They celebrate your victories, offer sound counsel, and stand by you through life’s trials. Thomas Aquinas said, “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship,” one of life’s sweetest merits, both in the present and eternally.

    Photo Credit: Prostock-studio/Konstantin Postumitenko via Canva Pro

    Judy McEachran loves to worship the Author of life and love. She is an ordained pastor and gifted musician who writes and speaks to encourage believers. She pastored churches in the Midwest and after retirement moved to Arizona. She is humbled not only by the gracious love of God but by her devoted husband, two sons, and ten grandchildren. You can visit her website at God Secrets that Impart Life. Find her music on YouTube. Judy’s natural musical giftings invite worshippers into the presence of the Lord.

    This article originally appeared on Christianity.com. For more faith-building resources, visit

    Christianity.com. Christianity.com

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    Judy McEachran

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  • SKILLET FRIED CORN SALAD

    SKILLET FRIED CORN SALAD

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    This Skillet Fried Corn Salad is a wonderful addition to any summer meal! If you love fried corn, you will love this refreshing salad.

    Fried Corn SaladFried Corn Salad

    If you love recipes made with corn, definitely try this delicious Skillet Fried Corn! It’s a summer staple but we also love it year round.

    ❤️WHY WE LOVE THIS RECIPE

    We love skillet fried corn and we thought.. why not add it to a salad? It turned out fantastic and what you add is totally up to you, this is very versatile salad. I loved the taste and we will definitely make this one over and over.

    🍴KEY INGREDIENTS

    • 2 cans of Summer Crisp Sweet Corn (can use fresh too)
    • Butter
    • English Cucumber
    • Cherry Tomatoes
    • Red Onion
    • Avocado
    • Garlic Seasoning
    • Black Pepper to taste

    SWAPS

    You can use whatever corn you like, and you can absolutely use fresh corn, too. It would be around 3 cups. If you are not a fan of avocado then leave it out and add what you love.

    🍽️HOW TO MAKE

    This salad is simple to make, the hardest part is cutting up the vegetables. You could easily add other vegetables you love.

    Step 1
    In a skillet over medium heat, add butter and corn. Saute until corn is soft and browning a little.

    Step 2
    Remove from heat and set aside. Chop all vegetables and add to a large bowl. Once corn has cooled add to vegetables, sprinkle with garlic seasoning and pepper. Toss well and serve. 

    Fried Corn SaladFried Corn Salad

    OTHER RECIPES WITH CORN

    • Corn Fritters – These are are always a hit and can be served with syrup or honey or with powdered sugar.
    • Easy Corn Casserole – This one is always a favorite during the holiday season and goes great with any meal.
    • Cheddar Corn Quiche – This recipe is so easy and a wonderful way to start the day!

    SALADS WITH CORN

    • Frito Corn Salad – This Corn salad is always a hit and we love it with chili cheese Fritos!
    • Tasty Corn Salad – This salad is only a few ingredients and always a great addition to any summer gathering.
    • Bacon Ranch Chopped Salad – This one is loaded with vegetables, bacon and ranch! So good!

    Skillet Fried Corn Salad

    Anne Walkup

    This fried corn salad is one your family will love. Loaded with delicious vegetables, so easy to make and great addition to any summer meal. The fried corn is a wonderful addition!

    Prep Time 15 minutes

    Cook Time 10 minutes

    Course Salad

    Cuisine American

    • 2 11 ounce cans of Summer Crisp Sweet Corn – drained
    • 2 tablespoons of butter
    • 1.5 cups diced English Cucumber
    • 1 cup of cherry tomatoes halved
    • 1/4 th cup of diced red onion
    • 1 medium avocado diced
    • 1/2 teaspoon of garlic seasoning
    • black pepper to taste

    • In a skillet over medium heat, add butter and corn. Saute until corn is soft and browning a little. Remove from heat and set aside.

    • Chop all vegetables and add to a large bowl. Once corn has cooled add to vegetables, sprinkle with garlic seasoning and pepper.

    • Toss well and serve.

    Keyword Skillet Fried Corn Salad

    Let us know by commenting below!

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    © The Southern Lady Cooks photos and text – All rights reserved. No copying, posting on other sites, or other uses allowed without written permission of the copyright holder.

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  • 31 Days of Comforting Promises for Widowers Straight from Scripture

    31 Days of Comforting Promises for Widowers Straight from Scripture

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    When my wife, Amy, passed away after a 13-month, no-holds-barred battle with cancer, I thought I was ready.

    I wasn’t ready. Honestly, I’m still not ready, but I have found comfort each day in God’s promises of old. May I share a few of those with you now?

    Here are 31 days of God’s ironclad promises for widowers; I pray they help your soul as they have strengthened mine.

    Day 1

    God’s Promise:

    “I know the Lord is always with me. I will not be shaken, for he is right beside me.”—Psalm 16:8 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord Jesus, my mind knows you’re with me today. Please help my heart to know it as well. (I struggle with that sometimes.) Amen.

    Day 2

    God’s Promise:

    “I would have despaired unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord In the land of the living. Wait for the Lord; Be strong and let your heart take courage; Yes, wait for the Lord.”—Psalm 27:13-14 NASB

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Oh, Father! I will despair unless your goodness visits me here in the land of the living. Please be good to me today—all day. Amen.

    Day 3

    God’s Promise:

    “Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am in distress. Tears blur my eyes. My body and soul are withering away. I am dying from grief; my years are shortened by sadness. Sin has drained my strength; I am wasting away from within.”—Psalm 31:9-10 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Have mercy, Jesus. Have mercy on my soul today. Please have mercy. Amen.

    Day 4

    God’s Promise:

    “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted; he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. The righteous person faces many troubles, but the Lord comes to the rescue each time.”—Psalm 34:18-19 NET Bible

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Holy Spirit, it must be obvious to you that I’m brokenhearted. It’s not so obvious to me that you’ll come to my rescue. Will you show me that today, please? Amen.

    Day 5

    God’s Promise:

    “Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit.”—Psalm 51:10-12 ESV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    O God! Today, in me, please: Create. Renew. Keep. Restore. Uphold. I trust in you, Amen.

    Day 6

    God’s Promise:

    “Whenever I am afraid, I will trust in You. In God I will praise His word, In God I have put my trust; I will not fear. What can flesh do to me?”—Psalm 56:3-4 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Jesus, I didn’t expect that losing my wife would make me feel afraid, but I’m so scared. Help me to trust in you and not to fear today. Please. Amen.

    Day 7

    God’s Promise:

    “You number my wanderings; Put my tears into Your bottle; Are they not in Your book?”—Psalm 56:8 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    How funny, Father, that you’d collect my tears in your bottle! But also very kind. Thank you for remembering my sorrow today. Amen.

    Day 8

    God’s Promise:

    “Oh, I must find rest in God only, because my hope comes from him! Only God is my rock and my salvation—my stronghold!—I will not be shaken. My deliverance and glory depend on God. God is my strong rock. My refuge is in God.”—Psalm 62:5-7 CEB

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Dear God, my soul struggles to rest; my heart longs to hope again. Today, in some small way, would you show me how to hope and rest? Amen.

    Day 9

    God’s Promise:

    “He will shelter you with his wings; you will find safety under his wings. His faithfulness is like a shield or a protective wall. You need not fear the terrors of the night…”—Psalm 91:4-5 NET Bible

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Holy Spirit, it’s so hard to face the night without her near me anymore. So hard. When I close my eyes tonight, please let me feel the shelter of your wings. Amen.

    Day 10

    God’s Promise:

    “I love the Lord because he hears my voice and my prayer for mercy. Because he bends down to listen, I will pray as long as I have breath!”—Psalm 116:1-2

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Dear Jesus, dear, dear Jesus. As long as I have breath, remind me that you bend down to listen! I need you today, so thank you for being near. Amen.

    Day 11

    God’s Promise:

    “Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful servants.”—Psalm 116:15 NIV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Ah, Father. Her death was precious to me, too. Thank you for sharing that with me today. Amen.

    Day 12

    God’s Promise:

    “My soul melts from heaviness; Strengthen me according to Your word.”—Psalm 119:28 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    What else can I say, today, Lord? My soul also melts from heaviness. Please strengthen me according to your promises. Amen.

    Day 13

    God’s Promise:

    “Those who sow in tears, Shall reap in joy. He who continually goes forth weeping, Bearing seed for sowing, Shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, Bringing his sheaves with him.”—Psalm 126:5-6 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Well, God, here are my tears! Now it’s up to you. How about we reap joy—at least a little bit—sometime today? Amen.

    Day 14

    God’s Promise:

    “Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you.”—Psalm 143:8 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Precious Jesus, I am trusting you today. Oh, Lord Jesus, I give myself to you today. Amen. Amen.

    Day 15

    God’s Promise:

    “The Lord helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads…The Lord is close to all who call on him, yes, to all who call on him in truth.”—Psalm 145:14, 18 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord of all, I’m calling on you now; I feel so bent beneath this sorrow. Will you help and lift it? Will you be close today? I can’t wait to find out. Amen.

    Day 16

    God’s Promise:

    “Be careful what you think, because your thoughts run your life.”—Proverbs 4:23 NCV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    All right, God, I get it. This is a good reminder because my thoughts so often go to anger and despair. Today, help me turn my thoughts to you and to hope instead. Amen.

    Day 17

    God’s Promise:

    “He gives power to the weak, And to those who have no might He increases strength.”—Isaiah 40:29 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Power to the weak? Oh, how I need that, Holy Spirit! I am so weak. So weak. If you’re giving power today, I’ll take as much as you want to hand out. Thank you. Amen.

    Day 18

    God’s Promise:

    “He was despised and rejected—a man of sorrows, acquainted with deepest grief. We turned our backs on him and looked the other way. He was despised, and we did not care. Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrows that weighed him down…”—Isaiah 53:3-4 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Jesus, I do so quickly forget that you know—intimately—what I’m going through. Sigh. Lord, I’m sorry for your sorrow. Yet, I am also thankful you know it and me so well. Amen.

    Day 19

    God’s Promise:

    “Good people pass away; the godly often die before their time. But no one seems to care or wonder why. No one seems to understand that God is protecting them from the evil to come. For those who follow godly paths will rest in peace when they die.”—Isaiah 57:1-2 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Father, I don’t know why my wife passed away before I did, but I trust that you are giving her peace to rest. Please give me a measure of that peace today, too. Amen.

    Day 20

    God’s Promise:

    “For no one is abandoned by the Lord forever. Though he brings grief, he also shows compassion because of the greatness of his unfailing love. For he does not enjoy hurting people or causing them sorrow.”—Lamentations 3:31-33 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord, I struggle with the idea that you might’ve brought me this grief. It’s heartbreaking! But I still long for your compassion and unfailing love today. Help me to see that, please. Amen.

    Day 21

    God’s Promise:

    “The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble. He cares for those who trust in him”—Nahum 1:7 NIV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord God, you are good. Even lost in grief, I still know that’s true. Today, will you be my refuge? Help me experience your care, for I trust in you. Amen.

    Day 22

    God’s Promise:

    “Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.”—Matthew 5:4 NET Bible

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Jesus, so often lately, this promise feels untrue for me. How about if you and I work together today, so I can testify that it is true—regardless of how I feel right now? Amen.

    Day 23

    God’s Promise:

    “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls.”—Matthew 11:28-29 NKJV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Ah, Jesus. Here I am. I’ve come to you, hands open to receive. Give rest to my soul today, please. I’ve been waiting for that. Amen.

    Day 24

    God’s Promise:

    “In the same way the Spirit also joins to help in our weakness, because we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with unspoken groanings.”—Romans 8:26 HCSB

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Holy Spirit, I have no words today, so I’m just going to cry for a while. Please intercede for me now. Amen.

    Day 25

    God’s Promise:

    “For I am persuaded that not even death or life, angels or rulers, things present or things to come, hostile powers, height or depth, or any other created thing will have the power to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord!”—Romans 8:38-39 HCSB

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Wow. Not even death? You are impressive, Christ Jesus. Please grant my heart nearness to your love today when I feel so, so alone. Amen.

    Day 26

    God’s Promise:

    “But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’ Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.”—2 Corinthians 12:9 NIV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord, we both know how weak I am, lost in this half-life of sorrow. So now, will you make your power rest on me? I could use that today. Thank you. Amen.

    Day 27

    God’s Promise:

    “Christ himself is our peace.”—Ephesians 2:14 NCV

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Ah, Jesus. Draw my soul near to your presence today. I love that you are my peace. Thank you. Amen.

    Day 28

    God’s Promise:

    “I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong.”—Ephesians 3:16-17 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Limitless Father, today I ask this from you: Inner strength through your Spirit. Christ at home in my heart. My soul rooted in your love to keep me strong. Amen.

    Day 29

    God’s Promise:

    “And now, dear brothers and sisters, we want you to know what will happen to the believers who have died so you will not grieve like people who have no hope. For since we believe that Jesus died and was raised to life again, we also believe that when Jesus returns, God will bring back with him the believers who have died…So encourage each other with these words.”—1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, 18 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Thank you, Lord, for this encouragement. Please help me today. I don’t want to grieve without hope! Thank you for caring. Amen.

    Day 30

    God’s Promise:

    “God has said, ’Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”—Hebrews 13:5

    Praying God’s Promise:

    God, I know that I’m not great company sometimes- especially lately. Thank you for sticking around today, anyway. Love you. Amen.

    Day 31

    God’s Promise:

    “He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever…Write this down, for what I tell you is trustworthy and true.”—Revelation 21:4-5 NLT

    Praying God’s Promise:

    Lord, it struck me today that you’ve probably already wiped the tears from my wife’s eyes. Thank you for that. Would you tell her I love her—and I’m looking forward to the day when we both get to experience no more death…or sorrow…or crying…or pain? Amen!

    Related: 3 Things to Remember as a Widower in the Midst of Grief

    Photo credit: ©GettyImages/Goodboy Picture Company

    Mike Nappa is a practical theologian known for writing “coffee-shop theology” and Christian Living books. He’s a bestselling and award-winning author with millions of copies of his works sold worldwide. An Arab-American, Mike is proud to be a person of color (BIPOC) active in Christian publishing. Google Mikey to learn more, or visit MikeNappa.com. Find Mike Nappa’s bestselling book, Reflections for the Grieving Soul wherever books are sold.

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