What does “paradise,” or “heaven on earth” mean to you? What good hopes and dreams do you have for your life?
We always ask new patients, “What are three areas about your life—or health—that you hate?” and “What are three areas you want to improve?”
If we can specifically identify the areas the individual wants to change or improve, that’s “paradise” for people. This is not a shallow exercise. After all, we were created for paradise.
Certainly, this world is not paradise, but the Kingdom of God has come to begin the process of redemption throughout creation.
God wants your best life. He wants Eden life to permeate your life as much as possible. Still skeptical? Read, and ponder, Jesus’ words:
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)
If you’ve just read those words for the first time, we hope you are blown away by the contrast and clarity of God’s love. If you have that verse memorized but don’t really believe it is true for your life, we hope you’ll take a fresh look at the truth.
The thief (Satan) wants to kill your life as you live your life. He doesn’t care if you die. He just doesn’t want you to exhibit the life of Jesus while you live. Jesus came that you may have life and have it abundantly.
Seeing Your Garden
Proverbs 29:18 says,
“Where there is no prophetic vision, the people cast off restraint” and other translations say that when there is no vision, the people perish.”
A lady in her forties came to our office for help. She was open to making changes, but something was missing. Hardships of life and poor health had drained her vision. She had no clear hope for the future.
“When’s the last time you felt awesome?” we asked. “And do you have any photos of that time?”
She pulled out her phone and scrolled through pictures for several moments. Suddenly her somber face lit up into a bright smile. She had an image of abundant life.
“Tell us what you see.”
“I see someone happy, and I see someone healthy.” As she paused, her eyes filled with tears. “I see someone with joy.”
“That person is you. That’s who you’ve always been and who you’ll always be. But you have to see that as a present-day reality and not merely a snapshot from the past.”
We’re thrilled to report that this woman has kept her eyes on the vision. In just the first two months, her health—and life— were transformed in remarkable ways. What’s your vision?
This is an excerpt from Drs. Mark & Michele Sherwood’s book, Surviving the Garden of Eatin’
