Banquet With The King

Daily Devotional focusing on spiritual "food" at the King's Banquet Table. In 2024 this blog will explore verses to meditate on as we examine our "choices" daily, pursuing a deeper relationship with God as we grow in Christian maturity. This web page has had over 195,000 page views by people in over 133 different countries who are seeking God through His Word. God has promised if you seek Him, you will find Him. May you be blessed reading Banquet With The King.

Thursday, June 30, 2016

Half of His Wisdom

When the queen of Sheba heard of Solomon's fame, she came to Jerusalem to test him with hard questions. She arrived with a large group of attendants and a great caravan of camels loaded with spices, large quantities of gold, and precious jewels. When she met with Solomon, she talked with him about everything she had on her mind. Solomon had answers for all her questions; nothing was too hard for him to explain to her. When the queen of Sheba realized how wise Solomon was, and when she saw the palace he had built, she was overwhelmed. She was also amazed at the food on his tables, the organization of his officials and their splendid clothing, the cup-bearers and their robes, and the burnt offerings Solomon made at the Temple of the LORD. She exclaimed to the king, "Everything I heard in my country about your achievements and wisdom is true! I didn't believe what was said until I arrived here and saw it with my own eyes. In fact, I had not heard the half of your great wisdom! It is far beyond what I was told. How happy your people must be! What a privilege for your officials to stand here day after day, listening to your wisdom! Praise the LORD your God, who delights in you and has placed you on the throne as king to rule for Him. Because God loves Israel and desires this kingdom to last forever, He has made you king over them so you can rule with justice and righteousness." 2 Chronicles 9:1-8

As the Queen of Sheba, from the southern part of Arabia, testified to Solomon, she had not heard even half of Solomon’s great wisdom. Queen Sheba made a trip on camels of about 1,200 miles to ascertain if Solomon’s wisdom and riches were for real. When she saw and heard with her own eyes and ears, she believed. She was amazed at him and at how blessed he was. As a result of that she was even praising the Lord. How did she know the Lord God? She had heard of Him since Solomon had built the Temple for God and that Solomon and all his kingdom were blessed because of God’s generosity. That was only half of Solomon’s wisdom—and now we are at the “half-way” point in the calendar for this year of 2016. Do you think that you would have believed in Solomon’s wealth and wisdom without seeing it for yourself? Like the Queen, we need guidance and discernment—wisdom in action—to determine the depth of our wisdom—and how to apply it to our spiritual lives. With God’s guidance and discernment we’ll live to use all the wisdom that God gives us…not just half of it.

Prayer ~ Dear God, Once again we ask for Spiritual Discernment—like the Queen of Sheba must have had as she tested Solomon and found him to be worthy of Your attention. Please give us guidance as we apply Your wisdom in our lives.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Wednesday, June 29, 2016

Tactful Words - June 29

Let your conversation be gracious and attractive so that you will have the right response for everyone. Colossians 4:6 NLT

Tactful is to be considerate and diplomatic towards others, considering their feelings and ideas. It is doing and saying the right thing. As Paul wrote in Colossians 4:6 …Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. Knowing how to respond to others is such an outstanding skill—a real gift from God. How many of us have foot in mouth disease at some time or other? I’ve been known to occasionally stick my foot in my mouth—not tasty. I wish I hadn’t said that—how uncouth! Well this is certainly a character trait on which I have room to grow! How about you?

Training Tip – Put just a little flour, baking soda, salt, pepper, and a variety of herbs like parsley, oregano, dill, and basil on a plate. Have your kiddos wash their hands and let them dip their fingers in each of the seasonings to taste them. Read them the scripture from Colossians 4:6 above and talk about how saying the right thing is with kind words is like having tasty things…the salt gives good flavor to our food and in the right combination, so do the herbs. We want to say kind things to others and respond nicely when we talk to each other.

Lord, let our conversation be gracious and tactful, considering others feelings. Help us to be kind and treat others the way we want to be treated—to say words to others that we would want to hear said to us. Just as You taught in Proverbs 3:26… LORD be my confidence and keep my foot from being caught...in my mouth.

From June 29, 2013 – Banquet With The King.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Tuesday, June 28, 2016

Not Spiritual? June 28

But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 1 Corinthians 2:14 NLT

Do you consider yourself a “spiritual” person? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? That is the spirituality that Paul is referring to here when he writes to the people in the church at Corinth. Spirituality may sound foolish still to people—but there are different types of spirituality out there. Be careful with which spirituality you get involved. If it is not the Holy Spirit that is teaching you, then it may likely be an evil spirit that is trying to fool you…to get your attention away from the true Spirit. As John wrote…Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1 NLT.

Those who don’t have the Holy Spirit in them don’t understand God’s Word—His teachings, unless He reveals it to them. Where would we be without that? I’m convinced that God reveals Himself to us…but not everyone sees. They are too caught up in their own world or just don’t consider themselves worthy enough to know God. God doesn’t see it that way. He wants a relationship with everyone. One of the most known verses in the Bible is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” It doesn’t say that God loved only Americans or only Jews…or only…. It says God so loved THE WORLD. But not everyone in the world responds to God’s love for them. Maybe they just haven’t heard it yet. I missed telling at least four or five people today that God loves them. May God have mercy on them—and send someone tomorrow to introduce them to Jesus if they don’t already know Him. When it comes to the end of the day…I look back and see where I missed opportunities. But God doesn’t want us to “look back.” But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. Look ahead and be ready. As Peter wrote…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence….1 Peter 3:15. Being ready is important. Remember…You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:40. Be spiritual—seeking the Holy Spirit and be ready.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help all my family, friends, and neighbors see how worthy they are of God’s love. We all are spiritual beings…created in God’s image to have a relationship with Him. He is holy—let us be holy, too.

From June 28, 2015 – Banquet With The King

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Monday, June 27, 2016

Inherit the Earth - June 27

But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace. Psalm 37:11 KJV

Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5 KJV

In His Sermon on the Mount when Jesus taught all those people on the hillside above the Sea of Galilee He said… Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. When looking at scripture on meekness I discovered that this same phrase the meek shall inherit the earth is found in Psalm 37. It is amazing how much scripture is repeated in the Bible. When we visited Israel I commented to our tour guide about that fact that scripture is repeated…God is making sure that we get this teaching of His because not everyone reads all of the Bible. Well…his comment back was…everyone should read ALL of the Bible. And he is Jewish! Our Bible is not the same as his, since we have the New Testament. Interesting food for thought.

Site of The Sermon on the Mount
Looking at the Sea of Galilee

So the meek will inherit the earth. What does it mean to “inherit” something? In the Hebrew and Greek these two translations of “inherit” are different. The passage from Psalms means to: 1) to take possession of 2) to inherit, 3) to impoverish, come to poverty, or be poor. The passage from Matthew means to: to receive a lot, receive by lot, a) especially to receive a part of an inheritance, receive as an inheritance, obtain by right of inheritance, or b) to be an heir, to inherit. No one wants to become “impoverished” so Jesus was really changing what had been said in Psalm to encourage the Israelites.

The “earth” is also translated somewhat differently: in Psalms it is referencing the whole earth, as opposed to heaven. It can also mean the land of Canaan. Earth in Matthew it is referring to arable ground, or similarly land that is not heaven. So the humble people will get the good earth someday. I think Jesus was giving the people hope by saying that those who are not proud and haughty will be rewarded with land—land was a valuable thing during Jesus time—just as it is now. Good real estate is very valuable. Do you have some good real estate…or hope to inherit some? Stick with Jesus and we’ll have a little bit of Heaven one day. He has promised that He will prepare a place for us there. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. John 14:2.

Training Tip – Get a little box or plastic jar and put some dirt in it from your yard. Tell your kiddos that when you die they will inherit your land and house. Don’t be morbid…just factual. That’s the way life is. Explain about inheriting things and land. Maybe you got your grandfather’s old car or rocking chair like my son and son-in-law did. The earth or land is what we all want to pass on to our children—just like Jesus said, the meek will inherit the earth. So give your children a little bit of your inheritance (dirt) now and tell them that their heavenly Father has an even better inheritance waiting for them—for you all.

Lord Jesus, help us to be humble before You and others. Give us Your peace, strength and love that we may share it with others so that they too will inherit some of Your Kingdom someday.

From June 27, 2013 – Banquet With The King.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Saturday, June 25, 2016

Choices, Choices, Choices June 25

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:12-14 NLT.

Are you led by the Holy Spirit? Do you allow Him to guide your thoughts, words, and actions? This is powerful stuff. The Holy Spirit has the power of life and death. But we have the choice of life or death—that is eternal life or death—by how we chose to live today…moment by moment. We can chose to be like Esau who give up his birthright for a bowl of soup, like Lot’s wife who looked back at Sodom, like Joshua who chose for his family to serve the Lord, like Esther who stood up for her people, or like Peter who denied Christ…and then repented and not only followed Jesus but led others into a relationship with the Lord as their Savior. We choose. We can ask the Holy Spirit to get rid of our sinful nature and live a life of holiness. Holiness unto the Lord. We choose. Live by our sinful nature or get rid of it. What is the logical choice for you? Choose this day whom you will serve.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, by Your power and grace I ask You to cleanse my heart, soul and spirit that I would live a life of holiness—holiness unto the Lord. Holiness in service to the Lord. May everything that I think, do and say be pleasing to You.

From June 25, 2015 – Banquet With The King

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Thursday, June 23, 2016

Revealed to the Childlike? June 26

At that same time Jesus was filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, and He said, "O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way.” Luke 10:21 NLT

The LORD protects those of childlike faith; I was facing death, and he saved me. Psalm 116:6

1 Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world.

2 This is how we know if they have the Spirit of God: If a person claiming to be a prophet acknowledges that Jesus Christ came in a real body, that person has the Spirit of God.

3 But if someone claims to be a prophet and does not acknowledge the truth about Jesus, that person is not from God. Such a person has the spirit of the Antichrist, which you heard is coming into the world and indeed is already here.

4 But you belong to God, my dear children. You have already won a victory over those people, because the Spirit who lives in you is greater than the spirit who lives in the world.

5 Those people belong to this world, so they speak from the world's viewpoint, and the world listens to them.

6 But we belong to God, and those who know God listen to us. If they do not belong to God, they do not listen to us. That is how we know if someone has the Spirit of truth or the spirit of deception.

7 Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. 1 John 4:1-7

Love is the key. Childlike faith is trusting and loving. Kids trust God. Saved by their faith--saved to do cartwheels on the beach--to run, play and sing to the Lord. Jesus loves me.

Do you know that Jesus loves you? Do you trust Him with your every care?

Prayer ~ Jesus, I know you love me. The Bible tells me so. Thank You for revealing Your truth to me. Being filled with the joy of the Holy Spirit, I trust and obey You just like You trusted and obeyed Your Father.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

A Woman of Excellence

Then he said, "May you be blessed of the Lord, my daughter. You have shown your last kindness to be better than the first by not going after young men, whether poor or rich. Now, my daughter, do not fear. I will do for you whatever you ask, for all my people in the city know that you are a woman of excellence. Now it is true I am a close relative; however, there is a relative closer than I. Remain this night, and when morning comes, if he will redeem you, good; let him redeem you. But if he does not wish to redeem you, then I will redeem you, as the Lord lives. Lie down until morning." Ruth 3:10-13

Do you know anyone who is known as “A Woman of Excellence”? Proverbs 31 gives us a glimpse of such a woman. An excellent wife, who can find? For her worth is far above jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good and not evil all the days of her life… Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she smiles at the future. She opens her mouth in wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. She looks well to the ways of her household, and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and bless her; her husband also, and he praises her, saying: Many daughters have done nobly, but you excel them all. Charm is deceitful and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord, she shall be praised.(NASB, verses 10-13 and 25-30) I like to think this passage is descriptive of Ruth—and what her life may have been after she married Boaz. She certainly raises the bar for all women.

Today is my 44^th wedding anniversary—so I personally would like to think that I have attained at least a small level of this woman of excellence status—but I am only human and know my own weaknesses. I’m not there yet! It gives me a goal for which to strive—to reach, but not with my own strength. I am reminded that it is only in Christ’s strength that I can ever attain such a goal. A friend of mine’s favorite verse is Philippians 4:13, I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Holding up her hands she calls it her ten finger verse—one word for each of her ten fingers. And with her hands in the air, she glorifies God, who gives her strength to do all things. Like Ruth, she is an amazing woman of excellence!

Do not fear—Boaz was once again protecting and honoring Ruth. By asking him to cover her, she has “asked” him to be her goel, her savior, her husband. It was so important in that time to have a husband and family for their hope of immortality is in having offspring. Now Boaz is going to “redeem” Ruth, if her closer relative will not redeem her. He didn’t escort her home in the dark of the night, but told her to lie down and that he would take care of this situation in the morning. What a man of honor Boaz is! Just lie down and rest and let me do the worrying, the arranging. She would be safe. A woman didn't feel safe in that society without a man to watch over her and her household.

We depend on Christ for our spiritual salvation, for our hope and future safety. He has promised that He will never leave us or forsake us (Hebrews 13:5) and He gave His life that we might have eternal life with Him For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life. For God did not send the Son into the world to judge the world, but that the world might be saved through Him. John 3:16-17 NASB. The redemption that Jesus provides for us was foretold in the redemption of Ruth by Boaz, with love, honor, respect and full devotion.

Just as Ruth was saved by Boaz...and the world was preserved with Noah's Ark...we are saved by Jesus' redeeming blood shed for us. It is all linked together with God's love. (Noah's Ark in the Netherlands.)

Dear Jesus, Thank you for being our Savior, for redeeming us from a world of fear, weakness and chaos. Thank you for the strength and hope we have in You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel and his friends ate well at the King's table in Babylon--but they didn't eat rich foods. They chose to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. We should do the same.

When I was growing up we picked fresh gooseberries at my Grandparents' home--picking enough for them and for us. Then we'd hurry back to our house so Mom could bake a fresh pie for supper that night. Fresh gooseberries are best baked in a pie. Although Daniel probably would not have eaten this, I offer you my Mom's recipe for Gooseberry Pie.

Gooseberry Pie

1 double shell pie crust pastry

4 cups gooseberries (stems & blossom ends removed)

1 3/4 cups sugar

5 Tbsp flour

1/4 tsp salt

2 Tbsp butter

Place gooseberries in a bowl. Blend sugar, flour, salt together and mix through the gooseberries. Pour into pastry lined pie plate. Dot with butter. Add top crust and seal. Bake at 425 degrees for 45-55 minutes.

Enjoy!

Adapted from June 24, 2012 – Banquet With The King.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Wednesday, June 22, 2016

Don't Be Deceived

Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world's standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness." 1 Corinthians 3:18-19

As Solomon wrote in Proverbs...The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death. Proverbs 13:14 (NLT). Good advice. Avoid the snares of death. We're all going to die sometime but there can be a lot of misery associated with death--so why unwisely hurry it! No smoking, fast driving, or fatty meals for me. Like Jesus taught--everything in moderation, but focus on Him--on our Heavenly Father. Amazing love from the Father. Good advice. Don't be deceived.

And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.

Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love.

We love each other because he loved us first.

If someone says, "I love God," but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see?

And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters. 1 John 4:17-21

Don't be deceived. Are you listening to God's advice?

Prayer ~ Dear God, may our love grow and we not be deceived. No hate and no fear when we embrace your love.

Lord-please give Liberty a healing touch. Take away her fever and resolve the cause of it. May she wake this morning with renewed strength and her usual perky smile.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Tuesday, June 21, 2016

You are the Temple of God

Do you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

The Temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem was the earthly house of God. His meeting place with mankind. The inner room of the Temple contained the Holy of Holies--with the Ark of the Covenant.

Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place, into the inner sanctuary of the house, to the holy of holies, under the wings of the cherubim. 2 Chronicles 5:7.

Only one priest actually met with God once a year in that Holy place. That priest had to be pure and holy--and then just to be sure a gold rope was tied around his leg so that if God found him unholy and he died, then he could be pulled out. Holiness is unto the Lord. Honor the LORD for the glory of his name. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. Psalm 29:2.

Do not bring shame on my holy name, for I will display my holiness among the people of Israel. I am the LORD who makes you holy. Leviticus 22:32

Be holy. This is what the Lord requires of us. He makes us holy--but it is our choice--our free will to chose to be holy. God is a gentleman. He won't force us to do anything, although this scripture passage tells us that God will destroy anyone who destroys His temple. We are His temple How do you choose to respond to His offer of Holiness?

Prayer ~ Lord God, You are awesome and holy. Cleanse me and make me pure. Fill me with your holiness.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

United - June 21

God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; He made us pure and holy, and He freed us from sin. 1 Corinthians 1:30

WoW! God has been so generous with us--for our benefit! Christ has done so much for us. We are so unworthy--but as God's adopted children, we are worthy--we are valued. Think about that…you are worthy…you are loved beyond belief!

Prayer ~ Lord God, I am in awe of You. I am but a grain of sand on a huge beach--and yet you see me as worth something--something beyond comprehension. Your love. Thank You.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Monday, June 20, 2016

“Fame”

Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And He chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 1 Corinthians 1:26-27

Mostly we’re just nobodies. A few of us will have our fifteen minutes of fame, like Andy Warhol—but it is not likely that it will be world-wide fame—maybe just in our community or our neighborhood—or within our family. My “fame” amounts to about two seconds when my name was read when I got my Master’s Degree (Environmental Science) and about two minutes of when I won the Volunteer of the Year Award in an organization to which I belonged. Not even close to 15 minutes of fame. How many minutes of “fame” have you experienced? God called us anyway—famous or not.

Jesus had several hours of “fame” as He died on the cross. People—both followers and scorners—came to see Him die. Crucifixion was a painful, agonizing, and humiliating death—but it seems that people came to gawk anyway. Their reaction is recorded in the Gospel of Luke. And when all the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw what had happened, they went home in deep sorrow. Luke 23:48. Jesus appeared to be “powerless” hanging there on the cross. He could have called on angels to rescue Him—but He didn’t. He obediently became the sacrifice that His Father…our Heavenly Father…required for the sin of mankind. Jesus real fame was probably in the power of His resurrection. Without being raised from the dead His death would have only been a sorrowful time to His followers—but His resurrection is unique to the Christian religion. No other religious leader has been resurrected. Jesus is God—as well as being the Son of God, our Redeemer, Savior, Creator, Healer, Teacher, and friend. One day He will be instantaneously famous around the world when He comes again—to redeem His chosen ones.

BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen. Revelation 1:7 NASB

Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honor and gave Him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11.

Keep your eyes open. Are you ready to bow your knee—and your heart—confessing that Jesus Christ IS LORD!?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, purify our hearts, souls and minds that we would be pure, like You are pure. That we would live our days in praise and thanksgiving to You—for being the sacrifice for our sin. We rejoice with You, in You and for You. You alone are worthy of our praise. Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Sunday, June 19, 2016

God Has a Plan

But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God. This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God's weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength. 1 Corinthians 1:24-25

Jesus IS the wisdom of God. How wise is that? The ultimate in wisdom—the supreme intelligence. He is the source of wisdom. Jesus created the heavens, the earth, and all that is within them. He has power and wisdom above anything we can imagine. What a plan that God had—such creative

diversity throughout the world…like the languages that keep us separated, as began at the Tower of Babel. Do you see wisdom in God’s creation?

The worldly wisdom is just the opposite of God’s wisdom—the antithesis of the wisdom of God. (See Luke 11:49.) Peter mentioned God’s plan when he spoke to hundreds of people at Pentecost, just after Jesus ascension.

"Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know—this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power. " Acts 2:22-24 NASB.

God has a plan…for you. Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him. Romans 16:25-26

Prayer ~ Dear God…I think the key is OBEDIENCE. Jesus was obedient…and that is how I should life, too. A life of obedience. I praise You for revealing that to me.

Happy Father's Day!
Honor your father and mother...Exodus 20:12.

Happy Anniversary to Rella & Ron!

Years go by quickly--you are not forgotten. Blessings~

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Saturday, June 18, 2016

Think Again

Portuguese Cross

Since God in His wisdom saw to it that the world would never know Him through human wisdom, He has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it's all nonsense. 1 Corinthians 1:21-23

Are you looking for a sign from heaven…or do you feel that Christ’s death and resurrection are nonsense? Think again…and then ask God for His wisdom and insight so that you will understand more about Him. It is hard for us to comprehend the depth of God’s love for us—giving up His Son as a sacrifice for our sin. And why? What does Jesus’ crucifixion have to do with my sin—my mistakes and attitudes? The way I understand it, the sacrifice of Jesus has everything to do with the forgiveness of my sin—my very sinful nature. When Adam and Eve first sinned God sacrificed animals, using their skins to “cover” Adam and Eve’s naked bodies and their sin. Likewise, Jesus’ sacrifice “covers” my sin. It is neither offensive or nonsense.

Prayer ~ Lord, give me wisdom to understand more of You—and to share, not so much “preach,” with others about the truth of Jesus’ sacrifice—His crucifixion—and the joy of His resurrection. May that joy not be foolishness or nonsense to anyone—but may they grasp the importance of His sacrifice and believe in the impact it makes in their own lives.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Friday, June 17, 2016

Listen to the Prophesy

"The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about—the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place." (Reader, pay attention!) Matthew 24:15

God gave Daniel such wisdom that even today we read a warning that Daniel wrote so many years ago when he was in Babylon. This prophesy was a warning of the desecration and destruction of the Temple that happened later in 70 AD. Jesus used Daniel’s passage, Daniel 9:20-27, as an example when He was talking with His disciples about the Last Days. The destruction of the Temple has occurred, but the Last Days—in the End of the Age—are still ahead of us. So reader beware, as Jesus said. Listen up. Don’t be misled—be wise and listen to Jesus words. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. Matthew 24:13 NASB. Are you being wise, listening, waiting, watching and applying God’s word to your life?

Prayer ~ Lord, open our eyes once again that we would not be misled by some Antichrist, posing as You. Give us wisdom that we would not only see Your plan, but implement our role in it and serve You by serving others, that they would know and feel Your love, too.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel and his friends honored God by taking care of their bodies. God rewarded them, especially Daniel, with wisdom. Wisdom that lived on—well past Daniel’s lifetime. The key to Daniel’s diet was purity. Of course he didn’t eat any processed food since they didn’t have those in his day. That had to have included no high fructose corn syrup, no monosodium glutamate (MSG), and no trans or processed fats. We have opportunities for poisoning our bodies that Daniel just couldn’t imagine. His goal was to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. How can you purify your diet to eat more like Daniel and his friends? Consider what you have in your kitchen now…and make a plan to get rid of the junk foods, processed foods and the evil poisons like corn syrup, MSG and trans fats. Replace those with fresh foods. That maybe easier than you think at this time of the year. Summer is a great time for visiting farmer’s markets and fresh produce farms or fruit stands.

Farm Fresh Smoothie

Choose about one cup per person of fresh fruit, like peaches, cherries, blueberries and strawberries. Wash, remove pits, and chop, into bite-sized pieces. Additional fresh or frozen fruits like bananas, mangos and pineapple can be added. Add ice, if desired, or a cup or two of water. Blend in a blender until smooth. Serve immediately and enjoy. The vitamin content is highest immediately after blending.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Thursday, June 16, 2016

Focus on the Truth

The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. As the Scriptures say, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and discard the intelligence of the intelligent."(Isaiah 29:14) So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world's brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. 1 Corinthians 1:18-20

God knows what He is doing. Those who are recognized as wise…the brilliant debaters…the politicians who are trying to get everyone’s attention these days may not be as smart as they seem. At least in God’s eyes—and in most Christians’ opinion—they aren’t very wise at all. Neither of the two main candidates, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump, seems to have true Christian dedication or a relationship with God. Is the message of the cross foolish to them?

I’ve heard people laugh at both of them. “Which is the lesser of the two evils?” seems to be the question of the day. Both Clinton and Trump are looking a little foolish. As the National Conventions are about a month away we can only pray that there is some change that will give us all hope…a hope for our nation…and for the world that our nation influences. Paul doesn’t paint a very encouraging picture for the church at Corinth. The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! It seems to me that those who are headed for destruction don’t really care about God, hell, or their own demise. They have blinders on—like those on horses that pull wagons. They can only look ahead. That is good for horses so that they don’t get distracted…but for humans—blinders keep people from having a broad vision—from seeing the truth unless it is directly in front of them. Maybe that is an OK thing. We need to see the Truth and focus on it. Jesus is the Truth, the Way and the Life. He is Wisdom. Do you have blinders on that block you from seeing the Truth…or do they help you focus on the Truth? Open your eyes to His Truth.

Prayer ~ Lord God, open my eyes to see more of Your Truth—to see You and to apply Your word and wisdom to my life.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Are You Obligated to Tell Others about Jesus?

I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH." Romans 1:14-17 NASB

Paul was committed to telling everyone that Jesus is the Son of God. No matter what their culture or where the people were from…and whether they were wise or foolish…they heard the Good News message from Paul. He was not ashamed to talk about God and His plan for mankind. I know that early in my Christian walk I didn’t always openly share my faith with complete strangers…or even with some friends and family. As I’ve become more spiritually mature I’ve had more of a burden for the unsaved and I want to tell others about Jesus and my relationship with Him. Still it is hard to be bold…like Paul…and communicate the importance of a relationship with Jesus. Not just knowing who He is…but living to rely on and trust in Him. It is encouraging and comforting to know that God loves us so very much and sent His Son to earth to endure persecution and death on a cross for the sin of mankind. Love is a powerful emotion…and so many people don’t feel worth of God’s love…or anyone’s love, but God loves us even in our unworthy state. Evangelism is not one of my spiritual “gifts” but I do feel obligated, like Paul, to reveal Jesus to those who don’t know just who He is. Do you know Jesus as Savior and Lord?

Prayer ~ Jesus—Your name is above all names…I worship and adore You. Fill me with Your grace that I may make decisions that result in righteousness. Please continue to bless, guide and provide wisdom to my family, friends and neighbors that they would be blessed.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Tuesday, June 14, 2016

Set Yourself Apart—Be Holy

For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially towards you. 2 Corinthians 1:12 NASB

Amazing Grace. Where would we be without God’s grace—His unmerited favor—His blessings that we don’t deserve and can’t earn? The wisdom of the world—the smart thinkers—can’t provide the loving assurance that God gives us. Keep on being holy—for God is Holy and expects no less of us. You must be holy because I, the LORD, am holy. I have set you apart from all other people to be my very own. Leviticus 20:26. As His sons and daughters we ought to live for Him. But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption… 1 Corinthians 1:30 NASB

Prayer ~ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace He has poured out on us who belong to His dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins. He has showered His kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. Ephesians 1:2-8

Happy 4^th Birthday, Sweet Lydia!

God’s Blessing on your smiling face.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.

Monday, June 13, 2016

Wisdom in the End

Jesus spoke to His disciples about the Signs of the End of Times. But before any of this happens, they’ll arrest you, hunt you down, and drag you to court and jail. It will go from bad to worse, dog-eat-dog, everyone at your throat because you carry my name. You’ll end up on the witness stand, called to testify. Make up your mind right now not to worry about it. I’ll give you the words and wisdom that will reduce all your accusers to stammers and stutters. You’ll even be turned in by parents, brothers, relatives and friends. Some of you will be dilled. There’s no telling who will hate you because of me. Even so, every detail of your body and soul—even the hairs of your head!—is in my care; nothing of you will be lost. Staying with it—that’s what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won’t be sorry; you’ll be saved. Luke 21: 12-19 The Message

Is this the Gate to your future?
Garden of Gethsemane - Jerusalem

To know what will happen in the future is the desire of so many people. I’ve come to the point where I’m just trusting the Lord…to take care of me, my family, friends and neighbors. Our lives here in the United States are so blessed…and we generally feel so safe. I know a few people who don’t even lock their doors—whether they are home or not. I lock mine—am I not trusting the Lord in that? Who knows? The thing I know is that the Lord has promised to never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5) and I trust Him in that promise. He has not promised that everything will be rosy—but He will provide for our needs. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things (food and clothes) shall be added to you…Matthew 6:33. The next verse goes on to tell us that each day has enough trouble of its own. That assures me…there will be difficulties ahead. Brace yourself. Don’t worry, be surprised, afraid or bogged down when it comes. Hang in there. You are not alone—everyone has problems. Don’t be anxious is a theme in the Bible. Matthew 6:25, 27, 34 and Luke 10:41. And when the end comes…if we’re still here on earth—don’t worry. The Lord Himself—as the Holy Spirit—will give us words to say—to defend ourselves and Him! Those words will leave our accusers speechless—unable to refute themselves. Remember…He will never leave us or forsake us. That includes not only our bodies—but our souls, minds and thus our voices, too. I am warmed by that thought—like being hugged. I don’t mind being alone—but there is security in knowing that someone is near to protect and give advice. For me, that is God Himself. How about you?

Prayer ~ Lord, thank you for the assurance once again that You will never leave us or forsake us…and that You will be there to defend us…giving us wise words to speak, in Your defense if necessary.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Sunday, June 12, 2016

Wise Servant

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. Matthew 24:44-47 NIV

So if we are doing what is right…as Jesus taught about the faithful servant in Matthew 24…and we have our relationships in order, then when He returns we shouldn’t be afraid…but we should be excited, like the bride when her bridegroom arrives to take her to their wedding with all their friends, as described in the story of the ten virgins, Matthew 25. Again…we don’t know the hour or the day that the bridegroom (Jesus) will arrive. Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour. Matthew 25:13. One thing we do want to do is to be obedient to Jesus command to…Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20. What are you doing to get ready…to be ready?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, not only nudge my heart to remind me daily to “be ready” but wisely show me specifically what I can do to prepare myself and help others to get ready, too.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Saturday, June 11, 2016

Where is That Man?

…later, after his family had gone up to the Feast (Feast of Booths), he (Jesus) also went. But he kept out of the way, careful not to draw attention to himself. The Jews were already out looking for him, asking around, “Where is that man?” There was a lot of contentious talk about him circulating through the crowds. Some were saying, “He’s a good man.” But others said, “Not so. He’s selling snake oil.” This kind of talk went on in guarded whispers because of the intimidating Jewish leaders. With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching. The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: “How does he know so much without being schooled?” John 7:10-15 The Message

Who is this man, Jesus? Where is he? How does he know so much without going to school? Questions that people asked—wondering about Jesus’ wisdom. It says that they were impressed. Are you impressed by Jesus’ teachings? Most of our values, whether people realize it or not, are based on the Judeo-Christian values that are given in the Ten Commandments and by Jesus…love one another and treat others as you would want them to treat you. Jesus went to the Temple even when He said He wasn’t going to go. He was so motivated to teach the people about His Heavenly Father. People were guarding what they were saying about Jesus so that the Jewish leaders didn’t overhear them. They were afraid that the Jewish leaders would want to kill them, as they want to kill Jesus. We must be careful about not speaking out for Jesus. Jesus warned His disciples before He sent them out to talk to the people of Israel. "Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33. Who wants to be negated or disowned before the Heavenly Father? That would be like having the gates of heaven slammed closed in one’s face. Speak up for Jesus…but like my grandmother would say…if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.

Jesus was respected for what He wisely taught. Do you respect His teachings? Do you read them every day…and put them into practice in your life? How are you responding to Jesus’ teaching and to know Him today?

Prayer~ Jesus, I rejoice knowing that You created the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles as a joyous time for people to connect with You and with each other. Today as I read Your words in John and in Matthew, please fill my heart and mind with a deeper understanding of You and our Heavenly Father.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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Friday, June 10, 2016

Are You Ready?

Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit. Be like men who are waiting for their Master when He returns from the wedding feast, so that they may immediately open the door to Him when He comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the Master will find on the alert when He comes; truly I say to you, that He will gird himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and will come up and wait on them. …You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:35-37, 40

Are you ready? We don’t know when Jesus will return. Even Jesus Himself doesn’t know when He’ll return. However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself. Only the Father knows. Mark 13:32 NLT. The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom when He tells us to be ready. We don’t want to be out seeking more oil for our lamps, i.e. the Holy Spirit—like five of the ten virgins who were waiting for the bridegroom in Jesus’ parable found in Matthew 25:1-13. Nor do we want to be left behind—as in the parable of the two women grinding grain into flour (Luke 17:35). He told that to His disciples after the Pharisees had asked Him about the Kingdom of God. People throughout history have thought that Jesus would return soon…or during their lifetime. More prophesies are lining up…like Israel returning to the Promised Land…and the continual wars and rumors of wars in the Middle East. But still we don’t know if this return of Christ will happen soon or if it will be another hundred years or even 100 days. Whenever it is…be ready. Jesus is getting ready for us in Heaven by building lots of extra rooms for us. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:2-3 NLT. So when we get there we won’t have to be like Joseph and Mary with no place to stay…we’ll have a place of our own! We can hope that Jesus’ promise happens soon. He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's holy people. Revelation 22:20-21 NLT

Prayer ~ Praise to the Holy Spirit for He is worthy of praise. Holy Spirit…I think it is possible that You are always ready. I am listening for Your voice to teach me and help me remember to be prepared for the greatest day of my life…the day that I go to be in Heaven. You will be there with me for I am claiming that promise that You will never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel was a wise man. When we think of “wise men” in the Bible, we always think of those Wise Men who visited Baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Where were they from? The scripture tells us that they were from the east, but it wasn’t specific as to whether that was Persia, Arabia, or Mesopotamia. Could it have been that they were from Babylon? Perhaps their ancestors had known and been influenced by Daniel and the other Jews who had been taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar.

Veggies

One of my favorite ways to eat vegetables is just a simple stir fry. Chop up red, yellow and orange sweet peppers, a small zucchini, several small cremini mushrooms and about a tablespoon of sweet onion into small bite-sized portions, so that there is at least a cup of veggies per person. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan and add the veggies, along with a clove of garlic, grated on a microplane grater. Stir frequently until the veggies are at a tender yet crunchy state. The less the vegetables are cooked, the more nutrients are retained. Enjoy some fresh fruit, as Daniel and his friends did, for variety and more nutrients.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm.