Thankfulness Never Ends

Then the seventh angel sounded; and there were loud voices in heaven, saying, "The kingdom of the world has become the kingdom of our Lord and of His Christ; and He will reign forever and ever." And the twenty-four elders, who sit on their thrones before God, fell on their faces and worshiped God, saying, "We give You thanks, O Lord God, the Almighty, who are and who were, because You have taken Your great power and have begun to reign. Revelation 11:15-17  

This is the last scripture recording “thanks” in the Bible (NASB version). It is exciting that John saw the Lord God reigning in Heaven. He wins the battle—was there ever any doubt? God is all powerful, mighty, and worthy of our praise, our thanks and our worship. Are your prayers overflowing with your thankfulness and praise? Do you talk to God as if He were a friend in the same room? He maybe reigning in Heaven, but He is here with us, too. 

Training Tip – Teach your children to pray…not the same rote prayers everyday and every night, “Bless Mom and Dad. Bless this food.” Teach them to talk to God like they would talk to a friend who is sitting right beside them. For example…“Lord, thanks. This has been a great day…not because everything went perfectly, but I just enjoyed being with my friends and my family, too. I know you were there helping me_____________. Now please give me a good night’s rest and help my friend with their problem _____ and…help the lady I saw in the street who couldn’t walk very well (or whatever). Help these people to know You better.” 

Lord, may my dear children and grandchildren live lives that are always overflowing with thankfulness, always giving thanks to the Heavenly Father, in Your name, Jesus Christ.

 

Remembering Vicki today. Her birthday.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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Discernment - December 1

But the LORD said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7 

God looks with discernment at people's hearts. To have discernment is to be able to see people and situations the way they really are without being judgmental, yet being cautious with the right timing and actions. 

God spoke to Samuel, a prophet, about anointing one of  Jesse's sons to be the next king after Saul. In this passage of 1 Samuel 16 God is telling Samuel not to look at these young men's physical appearance--but to look at their heart. He's saying to be discerning about who these young men really are inside. There was only one young man that God had in mind--it was David. God didn't give Samuel David's name--Samuel had to use discernment to find one of Jesse's sons who was the chosen one. 

Jesus was discerning in choosing His disciples and His friends--like Mary, Martha and Lazarus. Likewise we must use discernment in choices we make--whether it is places we go, what we do, or those with whom we associate. So ask The Lord to bless you with discernment that you would make good choices and thus live to please God.  

Training Tip - As usual, you set the example. Honesty and truth are the key elements of discernment.

Make a game of CHOICES.  Write out situations on paper. Discuss the answers.

   ... If someone tells a lie to their Mom & Dad about where they were playing will you go play with them tomorrow?  (Example - they were playing in the woods and said they were at Sam's house.)

  ... You saw Johnny take some candy from the teacher's desk. What do you do?  a) laugh at Johnny  b) tell other kids in the class.   c) tell the teacher that you saw someone take the candy. d) Tell Johnny you saw him take the candy and advise him to give it back to the teacher.

  ... Someone in your class had the answers to a test and offered them to you?

 a) You refuse to take the answers--you studied and you'll do OK.   b) You take the answers.  c) You tell the other student it is wrong to have the answers and give them to others.

  ... Someone wants to sell you something--that is a good deal--too good to pass up--but it is cool even if you don't need it.

  a) You buy the stuff since it is a bargain.  b) You refuse--you know you don't need that stuff and can't afford it.    c) You hound your parents to get to buy it for you so you can look cool with your friends.

...Develop some situations from your daily family life experiences and discuss it with your family.

Prayer - Lord, help me, my children, and grandchildren to have discernment in our daily life experience. 

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

 

Are You Still Thankful?

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

OK. Thanksgiving is over. Are you still grateful? Some people have been out shopping since the wee hours of the morning…or even late last night. They are just grateful to be home, with their feet up watching a ball game and drinking some hot chocolate, coffee, tea, spiced cider or even spiced wine. Some may be back in the kitchen warming up left-over turkey or making Christmas cookies. Whatever…are you thankful? Are you still reflecting on what God has done for you today? He has kept you safe, hopefully in good health, and not overspent on your holiday budget. Spiritually where are you today? Thank God for the little things in your life…sunrises, sunsets, food, friends, family, plants and animals, buttons and zippers, and windows to see the world around you. 

Training Tip – Give your children some raisins or yogurt covered raisins, but ask them not to eat them yet. Ask them—where raisins come from? (From grapes dried in the sun.) Ask—where do the grapes come from? (From God.) He made grapes so that they could dry into raisins. Do you ever thank God for raisins? Have you ever said, “Lord, we thank you for this little raisin?” although it may sound a little silly, the Bible tells us that we should thank God for everything. God gives us lots of good little things…like the flowers in the spring and summer. Did you ever thank God for the flowers? “Thank you God for the flowers.” We have clouds that bring us rain. “Thank you God for the clouds.” We have grass growing in our yard. “Thank you God for the grass.” And we often see a squirrel that runs along our backyard fence. “Thank you God for that fluffy tailed little squirrel.” We have lights in our house. “Thank you God for the lights.”  God has given us lots of things—we need to thank Him even for the little things. “Thank you God for the raisins.” Before you eat them, thank God for one little thing. “Thank you God for buttons.” (Eat a raisin.) “Thank you God for lights.” (Eat one more raisin.) “Thank you God for this raindrop on our window.” (Eat another raisin.) Think of another good thing and give thanks before you eat another raisin. 

Lord God, help my children and grandchildren to express their thankfulness for all things…even the little things in life—for You provide everything for us. 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

My Mother always made fruitcake cookies at Christmas time—mostly I think for her friends and bridge club, but for my Dad, too. He really enjoyed them. Recently I was going through her recipe cards and found her recipe…a bit yellowed and stained with age. Here it is for you to try out…and enjoy if you like fruitcake. 

Fruitcake Cookies

4 cups flour, sifted

1 tsp soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup vegetable shortening

2 cups brown sugar, packed

2 eggs

2/3 cup buttermilk or sour milk

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup candied cherries, cut in quarters

2 cups dates, cut up

2   4-oz cans (1 cup) candied fruits and peels

Red or green candied cherries as garnish (optional)

Mix flour, soda and salt. (Mom sifted again—but just stir together well.) In another bowl cream shortening, add sugar and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy. Add buttermilk and flour. Add nuts, cherries, dated and candied fruit. Mix well. Chill dough for several hours.

Drop by teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart on lightly greased (or parchment covered) cookie sheet. Top each cookie with a half of candied cherry. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 – 10 minutes. Make 8 dozen cookies.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Praise and Worship God - Thankfully

You are my God, and I give thanks to You; You are my God, I extol You. Psalms 118:28 

The best way to pray is to repeat or rephrase scripture back to God—talking to Him. Psalm 118 is a song of thanksgiving—beginning and ending with thanks. I mentioned Psalm 118 a couple of days ago, in reference to David’s thankfulness from being rescued from his enemies and Saul as recorded in 2 Samuel 22. Psalm 118 also contains a classic verse that I recalled hearing as a child (paraphrased)…if God is for me who can be against me? The actual verse I think is this… The LORD is for me; I will not fear; what can man do to me? Psalms 118:6. Another reason to be thankful. Like Job, with God standing up for him, even though Satan was attacking him, Job didn’t die and didn’t give up hope. He had some moments of discouragement and anguish—who wouldn’t after losing all his children and wealth? At the end of the story Job repented of his pride and rebellion towards the Lord. He trusted God and was content in knowing real fellowship with God. God blessed him, restoring his wealth twofold. I imagine that although it is not recorded in the book of Job as such, that Job offered thanks to God for restoring his health, family and fortune. He was blessed. We don’t have to have the trials of Job to offer our gratefulness to God. On this day of Thanksgiving—once again look at all the Lord has for you—and be thankful. 

Training Tip – Ask your family to share around the Thanksgiving dinner table one thing for which they are thankful. It may surprise you the things or situations for which the children are thankful. 

Lord God, you are my God and I give thanks to You—for You are worthy of praise and worship.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Sing Praises of Thanksgiving to the Lord

Sing praise to the LORD, you His godly ones, and give thanks to His holy name. Psalms 30:4  

You His godly ones—does that include you? What does it mean to be “godly” in this day and age? Is that the same as “righteous?” That, by definition (www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/righteous) is acting in accord with divine or moral law, or free from guilt or sin; or as taught by most Christian denominations, “living right before God.” That seems like a pretty tall order—to be free from guilt or sin, but that is exactly what Jesus did for us on the cross—so as long as we live to please God, we are living in a righteous way—holiness. Sounds good to me. So I’d say that, yes, we are His godly ones. That is something about which to give thanks. Read all of Psalm 30. I love what David wrote in verse 5…For His anger is but for a moment, His favor is for a lifetime; weeping may last for the night, but a shout of joy comes in the morning. Psalms 30:5. God won’t be angry with you for long…ask for His forgiveness and you’ll be in His favor forever…that is an eternity. Shout for joy this morning…and as it says in verse 12… my soul may sing praise to You and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks to You forever. Psalms 30:12  

Training Tip – Have you ever tried to teach your children what “forever” or “eternity” means? Take a clear sandwich bag—the zips close variety—and put 75 coins, preferably pennies, into the bag. Then ask your family to each guess how many coins are in the bag. If someone guesses right, then they get the bag. The idea though is to say that if you take a coin out every year, it would be the lifetime of the average person. But if you have to have enough coins to fill up your whole house it still wouldn’t be as much as the years of eternity. That is a long time. God wants us to live with Him forever—for eternity. We just have to love Him…and give Him our hearts…and live for Him in a way that is pleasing to Him. We’ll want to sing praises to God and thank Him for everything. 

Lord God, You are an awesome God. We give You thanks…forever.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Give Thanks and Sing Praises

The LORD lives, and blessed be my rock; and exalted be God, the rock of my salvation, the God who executes vengeance for me, and brings down peoples under me, who also brings me out from my enemies; You even lift me above those who rise up against me; You rescue me from the violent man. Therefore I will give thanks to You, O LORD, among the nations, and I will sing praises to Your name. He is a tower of deliverance to His king, and shows lovingkindness to His anointed, to David and his descendants forever. 2 Samuel 22:47-51

David is giving thanks to God… and David spoke the words of this song to the LORD in the day that the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. 2 Samuel 22:1. This appears to be the first time (in the NASB) that the word “thanks” is used. Of course we’ve read how Noah built an altar to God and offered a sacrifice after he, his family and all the animals left the ark. Scripture doesn’t tell us, we just assume that Noah was thankful to be off that rocking ark and on dry ground again. In the passage above, David is grateful that God has protected and rescued him from his enemies—especially Saul. This passage of scripture is repeated in Psalm 118 and is a contemporary song, Blessed Be the Rock. The Lord does live—not just in David’s time, but now, too. He is worthy of our praise and our thanks. Just think about what He has done for you—and be thankful. If you think He hasn’t done much for you, stop and look around and think again. And give thanks.

Training Tip – “Thank you” or “Thanks” seems to be an easy word to teach to toddlers—they grasp that idea. Transferring that “thankfulness” to God may be a more difficult concept. Once again it can be taught by a modeled behavior—as children see you being thankful, they will be thankful to God, too. Talk with them about the beauty of our world—sky, trees, plants, flowers, animals—and how all those are created by God—so we should give Him thanks. 

Lord Jesus, thank you for saving us from our enemies—even if our enemy is our own attitudes. You are a strong tower and we run to You for protection and security. Thank you for always being there for us—and for the promise that You will never leave us or forsake us.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Be Thankful

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body; and be thankful. Colossians 3:15 

Let the week of Thankfulness progress! What are you thankful for this week? I’ve been discovering more and more each day this year the depth of God’s love—and feeling Christ’s peace in my life. For that I am thankful. In addition, memories of recent trips with loved ones…times with grandchildren…renewed health—even if it was just bronchitis and the flu…climbing Badger Mountain last Wednesday with a friend and growing grandson…and time to relax and reflect on thankfulness and on God’s goodness.  

Training Tip – With your family make a list of the things for which you are thankful beginning with today, this week, this month and then this year. By making a list it helps us to be ready to express our thankfulness to God and to share with others what God is doing in our lives. 

Lord, thank you for the opportunity to reflect on Your gracious generosity and provisions for our health, safety, security, and spiritual guidance. Please minister to our little Ladybug Amelia. Help her doctors as they perform the tonsillectomy and may Amelia’s recovery be quick and complete. We love her…and we thank you for the healing touch we trust You will provide for her.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Thankful Appreciation

And He directed the people to sit down on the ground; and taking the seven loaves, He gave thanks and broke them, and started giving them to His disciples to serve to them, and they served them to the people. Mark 8:6 

“Thanks” appears 110 times in the New American Standard Bible. When we think of Jesus giving thanks we probably initially think of Him feeding the thousands (4,000 once and 5,000 another time) and offering thanks to the Father before the disciples passed out the food. In both occurrences the food multiplied from just a few fish and/or loaves to enough to feed the multitude.  Jesus then took the loaves, and having given thanks, He distributed to those who were seated; likewise also of the fish as much as they wanted. John 6:11. As much as they wanted. He was so generous. He was a good example to us—to be thankful, not just at this time of Thanksgiving…but all year. Even if we are in a restaurant our family, including children and grandchildren, we give thanks. Most of our friends are in agreement with praying in public, too. We’ve received stares and praises from fellow customers and wait staff.  So do you and your family regularly give thanks before meals? 

Training Tip – What prayers of thanks do your children know? Most preschools teach the children a short prayer that they say before their snack time. Below are some examples. Remember that it is important for you to pray, too—so that you’ll be a good example. There is also a power issue. They need to be asked to offer the blessing…not just do it automatically as their right.

God is great! God is good!
Let us thank Him for our food. Amen.

Thank you for the world so sweet,
Thank you for the food we eat.
Thank you for the birds that sing,
Thank you God for everything.

Thank you for the food we eat (YUM YUM)
Thank you for the friends we meet (SUCH FUN)
Thank you for the birds who sing-a-ling-a-ling
Thank you Lord for everything...AMEN 

We also sing a variation of the Johnny Appleseed song…

Oh, The Lord’s been good to me, and so I thank the Lord,

For giving me the things I need,

This food and my friends and my family, (originally: For the sun and the rain and the apple seed)

The Lord’s been good to me.

You may also want to teach them the Doxology, and sing it as a family.

Praise God, from whom all blessings flow;

Praise him, all creatures here below;

Praise him above, ye heavenly host;

Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost. Amen. 

Lord God, we are thankful to You for all You provide—food, shelter, protection, love and grace. Help us to share and show Your love to others and to express our thanksgiving always.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Agreeable Rebuilding

"With this the words of the Prophets agree, just as it is written, 'AFTER THESE THINGS I will return, AND I WILL REBUILD THE TABERNACLE OF DAVID WHICH HAS FALLEN, AND I WILL REBUILD ITS RUINS, AND I WILL RESTORE IT, SO THAT THE REST OF MANKIND MAY SEEK THE LORD, AND ALL THE GENTILES WHO ARE CALLED BY MY NAME, SAYS THE LORD, WHO MAKES THESE THINGS KNOWN FROM LONG AGO.' Acts 15:15-18

In this passage James is making an application of what Peter and Barnabas had preached earlier (according to Matthew Henry’s commentary). The “tabernacle of David” was actually Jesus, since He came from the lineage of David.  Jesus birth was prophesied—so the Prophets were in agreement that a Savior would be born and would come for the Gentiles as well as the Jews. Not all of the Jewish people, particularly the Pharisees and Sadducees, recognized that Jesus was the Messiah. In this passage James is symbolically explaining that the Gentiles would be called to know and seek Jesus as the Lord of their lives. Jesus came for all mankind—to be their Savior…to be our Savior. He wasn’t just Lord and Savior during His lifetime—but for all mankind for all time. Is He your Savior? If not, pray about that and seek Him today—with all your heart, soul and mind. Build for Him a tabernacle in your heart. 

Training Tip – Do your children know what a tabernacle is? Read some of the Old Testament passages about the Tabernacle—the one in the desert that the Hebrew people built and then the temple that Solomon, David’s son, built in Jerusalem. See Exodus 26 and 2 Chronicles 3. Find pictures on line or in books of the tabernacle and the temple. Here are some suggested sites:  

Tabernacle images http://www.bibleplaces.com/tabernaclemore.htm http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=photos+of+moses+tabernacle&id=4B1D76340E5ED47C63CE56A9858B57DB37458451&FORM=IQFRBA

Temple images http://www.blueletterbible.org/Bible.cfm?b=2Ch&c=3&t=NASB#s=t_misc_370001

Prayer - Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you entirely; and may your spirit and soul and body be preserved complete, without blame at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ…as written in 1 Thessalonians 5:23. Lord, may my children, grandchildren and I live lives that are holy and blameless before You. Guide our thought, words and actions that we would daily, hourly, moment by moment choose to honor You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Be in Agreement—No Divisions

Now I exhort you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all agree and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be made complete in the same mind and in the same judgment. 1 Corinthians 1:10

Jesus always “agreed” with His Father—He did just what His Father said to do. Can we do any less than agree with other Christians as Paul directed the Christians of Corinth? No divisions— be in agreement—of the same mind. Complete. Complete in your love of the Lord…complete in agreement with each other. Paul goes on to write about being complete in Second Corinthians. For we rejoice when we ourselves are weak but you are strong; this we also pray for, that you be made complete. ... Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:9, 11. You may have to compromise…or change your point of view in order to be in the same mind—or in agreement with others. Can you do that?  

Training Tip – Mount a photo of your family on cardboard and then cut into puzzle shapes. Mix up the puzzle pieces and have your family try to put together the puzzle—one piece at a time with each person taking a turn. They have to be “in agreement”—no division—to get the puzzle put together correctly. 

Lord God, as my children, grandchildren and I seek to know You more…and to be more like You, help us to be of the same mind…thinking alike that we wouldn’t have any strife among us. We praise You for who You are…our Creator, Lord, Savior and Friend. We are thankful for You and for all You provide, do and in all things—we give thanks. 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

We’re almost to Thanksgiving so it’s time to start planning the menu…and deciding on pies for dessert. Here’s a compromise between pecan and pumpkin pies. Enjoy! I plan to. 

Pumpkin Praline Torte

¾ cup firmly packed brown sugar  

Click to see savings1/3 cup butter  

Click to see savings3 tablespoons plus 1 3/4 cups whipping cream

1 cup chopped pecans  

Click to see savings4 large eggs  

Click to see savings1 2/3 cups granulated sugar  

Click to see savings1 cup vegetable oil  

Click to see savings2 cups canned or fresh cooked pureed pumpkin  

Click to see savings1 teaspoon vanilla  

Click to see savingsClick to see savings2 teaspoons baking powder

2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or 3/4 teaspoon each ground cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg)

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt  

Click to see saving1/4 cup powdered sugar 

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Butter two 9-inch round cake pans. Line bottoms of pans with cooking parchment. In a heavy 1- to 2-quart pan over low heat, stir brown sugar, butter, and 3 tablespoons whipping cream until melted and blended, about 5 minutes. Pour half the brown sugar mixture into each of the cake pans. Sprinkle 3/4 cup chopped pecans evenly into pans.

2. In a bowl, with a spoon, beat eggs, granulated sugar, and oil until well blended. Stir in pumpkin and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, and salt to blend. Whisk dry ingredients into pumpkin mixture until well blended. Pour half the batter into each of the pans; smooth top.

3. Bake until a toothpick inserted in center of cakes comes out clean, 30 to 35 minutes. Let cool in pans on racks about 5 minutes, then invert onto racks and remove pans and paper. Let cool completely, about 1 1/2 hours.

4. Up to 6 hours before serving, in a bowl, with an electric mixer on high speed, beat remaining 1 3/4 cups whipping cream until soft peaks form. On low speed, beat in powdered sugar and remaining 1/2 teaspoon vanilla just until blended. Set one cake layer, pecan praline side up, on a serving platter. Spread two-thirds of the whipped cream mixture over the top. Set second layer, praline side up, on top. Cover with remaining whipped cream mixture. Sprinkle with remaining 1/4 cup chopped pecans.

Happy Birthday Barry!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Do You Agree with Godliness?

If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. 1 Timothy 6:3-6  

Paul was pretty blunt when writing to Timothy about Christian doctrine. He tells it like he sees it—anyone professing and conforming to an ungodly doctrine is pretty much self centered and ignorant. Is conforming to godliness so bad? May it never be. We should strive to be like God. God is love, as we are told in a couple of verses in 1 John. The one who does not love does not know God, for God is love. ... We have come to know and have believed the love which God has for us. God is love, and the one who abides in love abides in God, and God abides in him. 1 John 4:8, 16. We choose every day, moment by moment, what we think, say and do. Make it a positive choice to agree with the teachings of Jesus. How do you do that? Well—first you have to know what Jesus taught. 

Training Tip – With your family make a list of Jesus teachings—beginning with the Ten Commandments. Don’t get legalistic about making a list and keeping it—that is just what the Pharisees did… and it didn’t help them build a relationship to the Lord. The most important thing about knowing Jesus’ teaching is KNOWING HIM. Knowing Him in your heart—not just your head. There is a difference in knowing someone—even Jesus—and conforming to His teachings, abiding in His love. Whether it is your spouse, your children, or Jesus—there is a decision and commitment to love. By showing that you love others, you show that you love God. Care enough about your children to teach them about Jesus—about His love for His followers.  

Lord Jesus, we love You. We Love You. WE LOVE YOU. Help us to always remember the commitment that You made to live a life of holiness and may our lives reflect Your holiness. Blessings on my family as each one seeks Jesus.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved

Walking in Agreement

Can two people walk together without agreeing on the direction? ... Indeed, the Sovereign LORD never does anything until He reveals His plans to His servants the prophets. Amos 3:3, 7 NLT 

Mountain of the Beatitudes
Site of Sermon on the Mount above the Sea of Galilee

To be agreeable, like Jesus, a person needs to be able to find Biblical solutions and encourage or support others without compromising the truth, God’s values. Jesus never compromised His values. In His Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7) He told people that they not only needed to follow the Ten Commandments, but that to have an attitude contrary to the commandments, like anger or covetousness, was the same as to commit the evil action, like murder or adultery. Love was the key to Jesus’ instructions. Not only to love God with all your heart, soul and strength and to love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:31), but to love your enemy (Matthew 5:44). Love is the basis of Jesus’ actions and attitudes. Can ours be any less?  

Training Tip – Make a game of walking to a particular goal with one person blindfolded and that person tells the other where to go—whether to turn right or left. Then switch roles and let the other person be blindfolded and give the directions. Once again walk to a goal, this time with no one blindfolded and see how the two people must agree on the route to take to get there. Talk about these verses with your family and that God has a plan. People need to follow that plan to get to His goal. 

Lord God, help my children, grandchildren and me to agree with each other as we walk along any pathway that leads in Your direction. Help us to have a loving attitude towards each other, to others and to You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Agreeable

Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 18:19  

Jesus’ words. He must have had an “agreeable” character—one that didn’t rebel against His Father—and didn’t sass His mother. Then He taught His disciples that if they agree about something, ask Him and His Father would take care of it. Nice arrangement. So can you agree about something with someone? If it is in God’s will—not just that you want to win the lottery—ha ha—then ask Jesus and God the Father will take care of it for you.  

Training Tip – Have a three-legged race with your children. Quietly tell each child of a two person team whose legs are tied together where to run or walk—but tell them to go to different places. Ready, Set, Go! Of course they will be falling over. Laugh together and explain that they have to be a team and head for the same goal—they have to agree to go to the same place. Again …Ready, Set, Go! Now, agreeing on the same goal and working together they’ll make it to the end of the race. This illustrates the idea of agreeing with others. Talk about how that can apply to prayer and asking God together for the same thing.  

Lord God, together my friends and I are agreeing and asking that You hear our prayers for our children and grandchildren. Help them to develop a strong self-esteem that is rooted in the realization that they are Your children, God. Your creation—created like Your Son, Jesus (Ephesians 2:10).

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Reverent Defense

…but 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

Sometime someone may ask you “Who is Jesus—or why are you so happy?” What will you say to them? Be ready. That is what Peter tells us—get your act together. Be ready. Prepare ahead of time if necessary. What has God done in your life—not ten years ago, but today? How do you see God working in your life? What gives you hope—eternal hope? Can you tell others about how God is working in your life and where your hope comes from? If not—then is it real? 

 

Training Tip – Practice with your spouse or other Christian friends telling each other your story—how you became a Christian…your testimony in five minutes or less. Include details of what God is currently doing in your life. If necessary keep a journal or list of the things God is doing for you. Then when you are chatting with your neighbor over your fence—or your own kids—you can reverently give an account of what God is doing in your life. 

Lord God, I know that You have promised to never leave me or forsake me—You are always with me. Open my eyes to see all the ways that You are working in my life. Help me to be ready and willing to share with others those ways—to give an account for the hope that You give me.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Reverently Stand in Awe

Therefore, since we receive a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us show gratitude, by which we may offer to God an acceptable service with reverence and awe…. Hebrews 12:28

Whenever you see a “therefore” in scripture, look at the passage prior to that to see what it is there for—to see the “what and why” of that passage. Here the passage is talking about God removing the things from earth that can be shaken—and the thing that cannot be shaken is the eternal kingdom to which Christians belong. The author of Hebrews tells us that we are to show gratitude to God for this kingdom that He has created…and of which He has made us a part. That gratitude should be offered respectfully in an attitude of reverence and awe of God. Can you be “shaken”? Do you reverently stand in awe of God? 

Training Tip – Teach your children about the word “awe” and its association with “reverence” by reading and then singing the words to your family from the song I Stand in Awe of You by Hillsong United.

            I Stand In Awe Of You
You are beautiful beyond description
Too marvelous for words
Too wonderful of comprehension
Like nothing ever seen or heard
Who can grasp you infinite wisdom
Who can fathom the depth of your love
You are beautiful beyond description
Majesty enthroned above

And I stand, I stand in awe of you
I stand, I stand in awe of you
Holy God to whom all praise is due
I stand in awe of you. 

Lord God, I do stand in awe of You—and I am amazed that You take time from your busy schedule to listen to lowly lonely human beings. Thank you seems hardly enough, considering that You, Jesus, gave us our very lives. You are certainly worthy of all our praise. 

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Building in Reverence

By faith Noah, being warned by God about things not yet seen, in reverence prepared an ark for the salvation of his household, by which he condemned the world, and became an heir of the righteousness which is according to faith. Hebrews 11:7

Imagine Noah responding to God’s request to build an ark. No rain had ever fallen…no ocean nearby—and there he is building this huge boat. It was about 450 feet long, 75 feet wide and 45 feet high. All his neighbors were laughing at him…and it took years to build this boat, even with the help of his three sons.

Yet, Noah reverently followed God’s orders and built a boat that was strong enough to endure at least one hundred and fifty days (Genesis 7:24) of the flood. Out of respect for God, Noah did what he was told. Do we have that much reverence and respect for God— to listen for the still small voice of the Lord and do what He tells us to do? What about the other people, who were living evil lives during Noah’s time? Could they hide their evil deeds from God?

Training Tip – Next time you see a brown moth, catch it and put it in a jar of dead leaves. Use this as an illustration on hiding. Ask your kids if they have tried to hide from the Lord. Maybe they took a cookie before supper without asking? The people during Noah’s time couldn’t hide their bad actions and they were so bad that God decided to destroy them. Just like the moth is camouflaged and hiding—people sometimes like to hide from God, but that is impossible. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 4:13… And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are open and laid bare to the eyes of Him with whom we have to do. Hebrews 4:13. In addition God asks in Jeremiah 23:23-24…Am I a God who is near, declares the LORD, and not a God far off? Can a man hide himself in hiding places so I do not see him? declares the LORD. Do I not fill the heavens and the earth? declares the LORD. How far is God from you?  Since God never changes…how far are you from God?

Lord God, I humbly come before You, confessing that I have tried at times to hide from You. But that is impossible—You see everything. Help me to live a life pleasing to You—so I don’t ever feel the need to hide. Guide my children and grandchildren, too, that they would live lives that bring You glory and honor.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

Reverently Submit

Submit yourselves for the Lord's sake to every human institution, whether to a king as the one in authority, or to governors as sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and the praise of those who do right. 1 Peter 2:13-14 

 

Submit? Put yourself under the control of “every human institution” as in government authority? Yes, that is what God is telling us to do through this letter from Peter to the dispersed church. Be respectful. Have reverence. Reverence is especially true regardless of a person’s position and authority, but as brothers and sisters in the Lord, knowing that He loves them too. He loves those in authority—and those who are under authority. We should love others as ourselves—just as Jesus taught in the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10) and as Paul wrote in his letter to the Galatians, …For the whole Law is fulfilled in one word, in the statement, "YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF." But if you bite and devour one another, take care that you are not consumed by one another. Galatians 5:14-15 Love others as we love ourselves. This begins with respect for ourselves and others—not picking them apart and irreverently putting others down for their position in life, their attitudes or actions. 

Training Tip – Next time you have an opportunity to put a spider and a wasp together in the same jar, use this as a teaching opportunity for illustrating that people should not pick at each other—and destroy each other like the spider and the wasp will as they sting and bite each other. People will bite and sting each other with words. That is not good. The Bible, in the above verse in Galatians, warns us about destroying each other. So what should people do? God tells us to love others as ourselves. Would you pick on, fight with yourself, or say mean things about yourself to others? We should treat others the way we want to be treated. It may be difficult to love others, but God can help us. Ask Him and He can put the love of Jesus in your heart so that you can be kind to others instead of picking on them. We’re not spiders and wasps. We are God’s special creation meant to respectfully love one another.

Lord God, help me, my children and my grandchildren to love one another, the way that You want us to. 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Summer is over…and we are well into fall. We harvested the last of our garden, including some beets, so I cooked those up and it made enough for a vegetable side dish for our evening meal. My mom often made Harvard Beets—but I just made pickled beets for us tonight. Enjoy—we did! 

Pickled Beets

2 cups beets, cooked in about 1 cup water

½ cup sugar

1 cup apple cider vinegar

2 cinnamon sticks (3”) 

Mix sugar into vinegar and the beet juice from cooking the beets. Add cinnamon sticks and bring to a boil either on the stove or in the microwave, for about 3 minutes. Stir to be sure that sugar has dissolved. Pour over beets. Chill for 6-8 hours. Add a few hard boiled eggs to the pickled beet juice to create a colorful snack.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.