Don’t Trust Wolves Who Look Like Sheep

Beware of false prophets, who come to you dressed as sheep, but inside they are devouring wolves. Matthew 7:15 Amplified 

False prophets were around during Jesus’ time…and they are here now.

o   When His disciples ask about the end times, Jesus told them…Many false prophets will arise and will mislead many. ... Matthew 24:11 and …For false Christs and false prophets will arise and will show great signs and wonders, so as to mislead, if possible, even the elect. Matthew 24:24

o   Peter wrote to Christians dispersed throughout the known world…But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will also be false teachers among you, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying the Master who bought them, bringing swift destruction upon themselves. 2 Peter 2:1

Wolves aren’t to be trusted—nor are sheep that are really wolves in disguise. False prophets aren’t to be trusted. Their silver tongues speak words that sound good, true and excellent—but beware of those smooth talkers. Test anything prophetic against the Word of God. Does it match up with the Truth? 

RSVP: Jesus is telling us to beware of false prophets. Will you listen and respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, … false prophets also will arise among us, just as there will also be false teachers among us, who will secretly introduce destructive heresies, even denying You as the Master who bought us, bringing swift destruction upon themselves…from 2 Peter 2:1. Open our eyes to see Your Truth and to identify false prophets in our midst. We give you the praise, honor and the glory—for You are the Truth, the Way and the Life.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Wide or Narrow?

Enter through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and spacious and broad is the way that leads away to destruction, and many are those who are entering through it.  But the gate is narrow (contracted by pressure) and the way is straitened and compressed that leads away to life, and few are those who find it. Matthew 7:13-14 Amplified 

Destruction is an easy way—anyone can find it—or come upon it by chance. Just meander down a wide street. The narrow way is not easy to find…look for it—seek to find it. It mostly likely will not happen just by chance. God will draw you to Himself, but will you be willing to seek Him and His straight, pure and holy way? 

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you to seek the narrow gate and walk into His straight path. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, Thank you for showing me the narrow way…the path that leads to life. Continue to guide me that I may show others the pathway to the narrow gate and the truth of Your way and Your love.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

The Golden Rule Rules

So then, whatever you desire that others would do to and for you, even so do also to and for them, for this is (sums up) the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12 Amplified 

Treat others the way you want them to treat you. The Golden Rule. Do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Be holy, like God is holy. When we have holiness in our life…we will treat others in a holy manner…just like we would treat God. That would make life golden—pure and ideal. We can only hope for something so wonderful. How have you been treating others lately…how have they treated you?  

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you treat others as the way you want to treat others. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~  Jesus, help me to treat others the way You would treat them.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

 

Toss Me a Snake?

Or what man is there of you, if his son asks him for a loaf of bread, will hand him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will hand him a serpent?  If you then, evil as you are, know how to give good and advantageous gifts to your children, how much more will your Father Who is in heaven [perfect as He is] give good and advantageous things to those who keep on asking Him! Matthew 7:9-11 Amplified 

Hey, Dad may I have some bread and fish, please? Toss him a rock and a snake –eek! Especially horrible if it is a viper snake, like a rattlesnake. We have that type of snakes here in the Pacific Northwest…but they are to be avoided so as not to be bitten. The young ones in the spring are the most dangerous since they cannot control the amount of deadly venom that they pump into their victim. No father would give one of those snakes to his child.  

The perfect, holy and pure Heavenly Father loves us more than we can comprehend and will give us whatever we ask for, as we keep on asking. Father, will you give us some bread and fish? Will You answer our unspoken prayers?   

RSVP: Jesus is reminding us to keep on asking our Heavenly Father for whatever it is that we need. Will you respond to His invitation today?

Prayer ~ Dear Heavenly Father, I admit that I have an evil nature. Purify my heart, soul and mind that I may be more holy like You. I will give my children and grandchildren a good gift by teaching them about You and Your Holiness.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

 

 

Persistent Prayer

Keep on asking and it will be given you; keep on seeking and you will find; keep on knocking [reverently] and [the door] will be opened to you.  For everyone who keeps on asking receives; and he who keeps on seeking finds; and to him who keeps on knocking, [the door] will be opened.  Matthew 7:7-8 Amplified

Persistent prayer…but not repetitious. And when you are praying, do not use meaningless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they suppose that they will be heard for their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Matthew 6:7-8. We’re supposed to be persistent…but not meaningless repetition. Something happened that needs prayer—so I have an unspoken prayer request of you. God knows what we need. We just have to trust. Trust God. That didn’t seem so hard last week…but today I just want a miracle—a healing touch in this situation. Trust God. Pray persistently. Trust God. I’m asking, seeking, and knocking…and trusting. How about you?  

RSVP: Jesus is inviting us today to pray persistently. Ask and you’ll receive; seek and you’ll find; knock and the door will be opened. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, I come before You humbly seeking Your grace and healing in this situation. You know all about it—even before I ask. Thank you for hearing my prayer.   

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

This recipe came highly recommended. It is also a good use of seasonal vegetables. Enjoy. 

Stuffed Bell Pepper Soup         Serves: 6

1 lb ground beef

1/2 medium onion, diced

2 stalks celery, diced

1 green pepper, diced

2 garlic cloves, chopped

2 cups or 1 (16 ounce) can diced, crushed or stewed tomatoes
2 cups water or 2 cups broth
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp fresh oregano, chopped
salt and pepper

rice ~ 2 cups or more of cooked rice

Brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain fat from beef and set aside, do not discard the fat. Saute the vegetables and herbs in the same pan. Add water or broth, ground beef and rendered fat, let simmer for at least 15 minutes. Salt and pepper to taste. The longer this soup simmers the better the flavor. Stir in desired amount of rice.  

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Would Pigs Wear Pearls?

Do not give that which is holy (the sacred thing) to the dogs, and do not throw your pearls before hogs, lest they trample upon them with their feet and turn and tear you in pieces. Matthew 7:6 Amplified 

It is a comical vision—pigs wearing pearls. Swine were detestable to the Jews to whom Jesus was speaking. Moses had been given instruction on permissible and forbidden foods. … and the pig, for though it divides the hoof, thus making a split hoof, it does not chew cud, it is unclean to you. Leviticus 11:7.  So the Jews still do not eat pork. Pigs can be mean animals. I raised a couple of pigs as a 4-H project when I was a teenager…they were cute when they were little and although they knew me and looked forward to seeing me bring them food every day, as they got older and bigger, they were a little intimidating. I certainly wouldn’t throw pearls to them…they only looked for food…and more food. Tasty grain was their favorite. Nothing beautiful or sacred about that. We need to be careful about how we treat holy things. That would include our attitude and actions. Do you cast a bad attitude or seek out unholy places? Don’t let your attitude go to the dogs.   

RSVP: Jesus is calling us to treat holy things in a holy way…including our own attitudes. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, help me to live up to Your holy standards…and to seek to please You in all my thoughts, words and actions.

Happy 5^th Birthday,

Liberty!

Love and Hugs

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Take the Log Out of Your Eye

Do not judge and criticize and condemn others, so that you may not be judged and criticized and condemned yourselves. For just as you judge and criticize and condemn others, you will be judged and criticized and condemned, and in accordance with the measure you [use to] deal out to others, it will be dealt out again to you. Why do you stare from without at the very small particle that is in your brother’s eye but do not become aware of and consider the beam of timber that is in your own eye?  Or how can you say to your brother, Let me get the tiny particle out of your eye, when there is the beam of timber in your own eye?  You hypocrite, first get the beam of timber out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the tiny particle out of your brother’s eye.  Matthew 7:1-5 Amplified 

Some translations use “log” instead of “beam”…but whatever—get your act together before you try to tell someone else what to do. I grew up hearing people in our community criticized…for not paying their bills, for not raising their kids right or treating their neighbors kindly, or…whatever. Judgmental attitudes. Years ago I did puppet skits at a church we went to and one of my favorites was a sketch where the father is reading a newspaper and criticizing someone. When he puts the paper down it shows that he had a huge log sticking out of his eye. Get the log out of your eye…get your act together…straighten up and follow God’s way before you try to take a speck out of someone else’s eye to set them straight and encourage them in the Lord’s way. Can you see a speck or a log in your own eye?  

RSVP: Jesus is challenging us today to look at our own attitudes and actions. Are we judging, criticizing or condemning others? How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, we may feel like we love You more than others…and be critical of them—like my five year old grandson—but we need to get the log out of our eye and see ourselves as You see us. Forgive us for our critical spirit. Create within us a clean heart, soul and eye that we may live in such a way that pleases and honors You. 

This is blog post #1,000. One thousand consecutive days of sitting at a Banquet With The King.

May God bless you as you read this blog…

and as you seek and serve our Lord and risen Savior, Jesus Christ.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Look for—Seek God’s Kingdom First Everyday

Therefore do not worry and be anxious, saying, What are we going to have to eat? or, What are we going to have to drink? or, What are we going to have to wear?  For the Gentiles (heathen) wish for and crave and diligently seek all these things, and your heavenly Father knows well that you need them all. But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.  So do not worry or be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will have worries and anxieties of its own. Sufficient for each day is its own trouble.  Matthew 6:31-34 Amplified 

Again…don’t worry. Seek God and His Kingdom and He will provide what you need…food, drink and clothes. His Kingdom is the royal power and dignity that belongs to God…a spiritual empire or dominion. In Romans Paul writes about food and righteousness.

I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but to him who thinks anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. For if because of food your brother is hurt, you are no longer walking according to love. Do not destroy with your food him for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let what is for you a good thing be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Romans 14:14-19.

Seek and ask God for that righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit in your own life…and Jesus promises that God will give you not only that, but the material things you need as well. It is hard to understand why we don’t always immediately get what we ask for…why there are troubles…why some people struggle more than others…and why some prayers seem to go unanswered, but for now all we can do is trust that God hears our prayer—He knows them before we pray. Don’t worry…just trust and obey. Can you do that?  

RSVP: Jesus is reminding us that we don’t need to worry about the physical things of life—it is the spiritual things that matter. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Jesus, cover me, my family, friends, and neighbors with Your righteousness, peace and joy—that we may be filled to overflowing and encourage others to seek You first in their lives.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Will Anxiety or Worry Add to Your Life?

Therefore I tell you, stop being perpetually uneasy (anxious and worried) about your life, what you shall eat or what you shall drink; or about your body, what you shall put on. Is not life greater [in quality] than food, and the body [far above and more excellent] than clothing? Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they? And who of you by worrying and being anxious can add one unit of measure (cubit) to his stature or to the span of his life? And why should you be anxious about clothes? Consider the lilies of the field and learn thoroughly how they grow; they neither toil nor spin. Yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his magnificence (excellence, dignity, and grace) was not arrayed like one of these.  But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and green and tomorrow is tossed into the furnace, will He not much more surely clothe you, O you of little faith?  Matthew 6:25-30 Amplified

Oh, you of little faith. Don’t worry and fret. Jesus tells us this several times in this passage. Webster’s defines worry as…to think about problems or fears: to feel or show fear and concern because you think that something bad has happened or could happen. …to make (someone) anxious or upset. God wants us to TRUST Him rather than worry. He cares about us and provides for us, as well as for plants and animals. We just need to trust Him. This “perpetually uneasy” condition is not one that just lasts a few minutes…a little fretting over small stuff like a sliver in a finger. But “perpetual” going on and on…. No trust there. Will it add to anyone’s quality or quantity of life? That is your life. 

RSVP: Jesus is asking you today to stop worrying…to trust in our Heavenly Father. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, I give You my worries, my concerns, the uncertainties of life for me, for my family, friends, and neighbors. Please take these worries and give us the certainly of Your love and care. Thank you.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Two Masters?

No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will stand by and be devoted to the one and despise and be against the other. You cannot serve God and mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions, or whatever is trusted in).  Matthew 6:24 Amplified 

Two masters. Two people telling you what to do. Has that ever happened to you before? Two bosses, two parents, or two teachers…each wanting you to do something different. I imagine that it is just like Jesus said…you would be devoted to one and despise the other. If one of the masters is God…and the other is money then what a predicament. We know that God is the provider…but money…buys—everything. Yet money can’t buy eternal life…or contentment, peace, joy or love. Money doesn’t provide grace or security. No love comes with the love of money. Food only fills the stomach momentarily…and only the love of God can nourish the soil.  Love God…love money. Which will it be? 

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you today to love God…not money. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Jesus, lead me, show me how to totally trust You to provide for me, for my family, friends, and neighbors in a way that we serve only God, and not money. Our society today is so dependent on money—but we need to serve God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Light Casting Shadows?

The eye is the lamp of the body. So if your eye is sound, your entire body will be full of light. But if your eye is unsound, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the very light in you [your conscience] is darkened, how dense is that darkness!  Matthew 6:22-23 Amplified 

Eyes glimmer, glow or sparkle…or not. Without light there is no shadow. If a person is unhappy, discontented with their life, or depressed, then their eyes are dull. No light shining from them. Casting no shadow. Just darkness engulfing the very breath and life out of a person and those around them. I’ve been there. Sad. No light from my eyes. And then there are other days, other weeks, months…years when joy has filled my heart and light shines brightly from my eyes. Sparkling eyes don’t cast dark shadows…but dancing lights that chase away darkness. Or lights so bright that the shadows are like that in the middle of the day when the sun is high in the sky. Short shadows. What kind of shadow do you cast? 

RSVP: Jesus is asking you today to look into your own eyes and evaluate the light shining from them. What do you see…and how will you respond to Him today?  

Prayer ~ Jesus, You are the Light of the world; anyone, including me, who follows You will not walk in the darkness, but will have the Light of life. (John 8:12). Let Your light shine through me.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

What Do You Treasure?

Do not gather and heap up and store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust and worm consume and destroy, and where thieves break through and steal. But gather and heap up and store for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust nor worm consume and destroy, and where thieves do not break through and steal;  for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. Matthew 6:19-21 Amplified

Treasures on earth—not only do they rust and rot…you can’t take them with you when you die. On the other hand, we can store up those precious and good treasures like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, hope, trust, happiness, truth, righteousness, affection, acceptance by God, and our names written in God’s Book of Life. Those things cannot be taken away or stolen from us and we can look forward to them in Heaven. Things that are eternal, not physical, can be valued and treasured now and for eternity. The focus of our hearts and minds is where our treasure is…on earth—rusting away…or in heaven—bountifully glowing. Where is your treasure…where is your heart?

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you to examine your heart…and whatever it is that you value…treasure. Is it something that will rust away…or that you’ll have to leave behind when you die? How will you respond to Jesus today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, open my eyes that I may see my treasure as You see it. Show me it’s true value. Help me to value the things that You value…and live for Heaven sent treasures. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It’s a great time to enjoy fresh garden and Farmer’s Market produce. I haven’t grown eggplant…but it looks so good at the Farmer’s Market that I can’t resist. That purple color is so regal. Not everyone in my family loves sweet peppers, so that’s optional. I love them, so I’ve included them. Here’s a recipe adapted from my friend Marianne N. that uses fresh eggplant, sweet peppers, basil and tomatoes. Enjoy! 

Scalloped Eggplant

1 medium eggplant, peeled and cubed

2 large fresh tomatoes, peeled and sliced

1 large fresh sweet pepper, sliced, optional

1 large sweet onion, thinly sliced

1 Tbsp fresh basil, chopped

¼ cup unsalted melted butter, divided

½ tsp salt

½ pound mozzarella cheese, sliced

½ cup dried bread crumbs

2 Tbsp parmesan cheese, grated 

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In an ovenproof casserole, arrange eggplant cubes, tomato slices, sweet peppers if desired, and then onions. Drizzle with 1/8 cup melted butter. Sprinkle with salt and basil. Bake covered for 20 minutes. Top with mozzarella cheese. Stir together bread crumbs and 1/8 cup melted butter. Sprinkle on top, then sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake 10 minutes uncovered or until cheese is bubbly. Enjoy on a hot summer day with a fresh tossed salad and cold meats.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Fast for….

And whenever you are fasting, do not look gloomy and sour and dreary like the hypocrites, for they put on a dismal countenance, that their fasting may be apparent to and seen by men. Truly I say to you, they have their reward in full already. But when you fast, perfume your head and wash your face, so that your fasting may not be noticed by men but by your Father, Who sees in secret; and your Father, Who sees in secret, will reward you in the open.  Matthew 6:16-18 Amplified 

Give in secret…fast in secret. God really likes to keep things private. WHEN you fast…not IF you fast, no one should know that you are fasting. Fasting is generally considered to be giving up a meal…or several meals. It could be giving up other things…dessert, soda, even television, sports or other entertainment. Fasting should be done to focus on the Lord…not to focus on what we’re giving up. Jesus Himself fasted, eating nothing, for 40 days at the beginning of His ministry. At this point in His ministry when Jesus is speaking to His followers in the Sermon on the Mount He had just taught on prayer. Now He is adding in the dimension of fasting. Fasting makes prayer more powerful. It should be done with a humble, obedient and focused heart. Consider the fasting that Paul wrote about in 2 Corinthians 11. Should we fast now? Yes. When faced with faced with serious predicaments, illness, or when sending out missionaries, it is warranted to fast. The time should be used to remember the reason for the fast and to privately focus on the Lord in prayer.    

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you today to consider fasting in a private, secretive way. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Lord, I return to You with all my heart, and with fasting, weeping and mourning (Joel 2:12). You have my heart, my soul and my attention—bathed in the perfume of Your love. Thank you for this lesson on fasting--privately.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

 

Forgive and Be Forgiven

For if you forgive people their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], your heavenly Father will also forgive you.  But if you do not forgive others their trespasses [their reckless and willful sins, leaving them, letting them go, and giving up resentment], neither will your Father forgive you your trespasses.  Matthew 6:14-15 Amplified

Forgiveness. Forgiveness is the cancelation of debt or obligations. It’s an important concept in Christianity. God has forgiven us…we must forgive others.  Paul taught the church at Colossians… So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things put on love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Colossians 3:12-14. This was also emphasized to the church at Ephesus… Let all bitterness and wrath and anger and clamor and slander be put away from you, along with all malice. Be kind to one another, tender-hearted, forgiving each other, just as God in Christ also has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32. That “giving up resentment” is so freeing. 

Moses pleaded with God to forgive…to take away the sins of the Hebrew people after they made and worshiped the golden calf (Exodus 32:32). Jesus Himself when He was on the cross pleaded with God the Father to forgive… When they came to the place called The Skull, there they crucified Him and the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. But Jesus was saying, "Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing." And they cast lots, dividing up His garments among themselves. Luke 23:33-34. 

Forgive-forgive-forgive. Peter asked Jesus a very important question …"Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Up to seven times?" Jesus said to him, "I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven." Matthew 18:21-22. Seventy times seven is to be a countless number—you can’t keep track of that many offenses—of all those resentments. That is countless forgiveness. Is there anyone you need to forgive…or to ask for their forgiveness?  

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you to look into your heart today…and seek forgiveness…for others, so that God the Father will forgive you. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, wash me thoroughly from my iniquity and cleanse me from my sin. Psalms 51:2. I thank you for taking my sin to the cross—and for teaching me to humble myself and forgive others…that I, too, would be forgiven.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Prayer to Our Heavenly Father

Pray, therefore, like this: Our Father Who is in heaven, hallowed (kept holy) be Your name.  Your kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  Give us this day our daily bread.  And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven (left, remitted, and let go of the debts, and have given up resentment against) our debtors. And lead (bring) us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen.  Matthew 6:9-13 Amplified

This is a classic prayer that Jesus taught His disciples when they asked Him to teach them to pray. Look at the parts of it…honor the Heavenly Father whose will be done here on earth, just like in heaven. Ask for daily food—physical and spiritual. Jesus also stressed the need for forgiveness of mistakes made against us…and for us to forgive others. He knows that we can be tempted—so He asks that not fall into temptation—but that we be delivered from Satan’s influence. The Heavenly Father’s kingdom, power and glory will last forever. That is it in a nutshell. If you don’t know what to pray—use Jesus’ format as an example.  

RSVP: Jesus is offering us a plan, a guideline for prayer. He just wants us to honor our Heavenly Father. How will you respond to Him today?

 

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, You are holy above all other gods and I honor You. Thank you for providing for my physical and spiritual needs. Forgive me for the way I have treated some other people and for my selfish  attitude. Protect my heart and mind and keep me from falling into evil ways. May my life bring you glory and honor—for Your kingdom will be forever.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Prayer is Important.

And when you pray, do not heap up phrases (multiply words, repeating the same ones over and over) as the Gentiles do, for they think they will be heard for their much speaking. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him. Matthew 6:7-8 Amplified 

Say what you mean…in a few words. I love that God knows us so well that He knows what we need before we ask Him. Prayer is important. We need to pray often. But Jesus Himself would often slip away to the wilderness and pray. Luke 5:16. Through Paul to the church at Thessalonica we’re taught… pray without ceasing…1 Thessalonians 5:17. In the Garden of Gethsemane just before His arrest, Jesus said to His disciples…"Why are you sleeping? Get up and pray that you may not enter into temptation." Luke 22:46. Pray without ceasing…all the time, even when you are tired and want to sleep, but without meaningless repetition. OK. That is becoming more of a challenge. We don’t want to be like the followers of Baal—see 1 Kings 18:18-39—where Elijah confronted Ahab and the followers of Baal to follow the true God. Elijah teases the Baal worshipers that their god may be sleeping…call out in a loud voice to him. Our God never sleeps… Behold, He who keeps Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Psalms 121:4

Prayer is important. There are thousands of books written on prayer. Whatever they say…prayer is still just communicating with God. With. That is the key. We don’t just talk…we have to listen. But let God know your heart, as He already does. He wants to hear it from you. Here are a few more encouraging verses on prayer:

Therefore I say to you, all things for which you pray and ask, believe that you have received them, and they will be granted you. - Mark 11:24

It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray, and He spent the whole night in prayer to God. - Luke 6:12

Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified, just as it did also with you….2 Thessalonians 3:1

Therefore I want the men in every place to pray, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and dissension. 1 Timothy 2:8

…and I pray that the fellowship of your faith may become effective through the knowledge of every good thing which is in you for Christ's sake. Philemon 1:6  

RSVP: So Jesus is calling you…inviting you…to pray—without ceasing in meaningful prayer. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, I’ve been feeling sick with a sore throat for several days. I’m asking You to touch and heal my throat. Thank You.

Is anyone among you suffering? Then he must pray. Is anyone cheerful? He is to sing praises. Is anyone among you sick? Then he must call for the elders of the church and they are to pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord; ... Therefore, confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another so that you may be healed. The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much. James 5:13-14, 16.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Pray Privately

Also when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the corners of the streets, that they may be seen by people. Truly I tell you, they have their reward in full already. But when you pray, go into your [most] private room, and, closing the door, pray to your Father, who is in secret; and your Father, who sees in secret, will reward you in the open. Matthew 6:5-6 Amplified 

Prayer is such a sweet communion time with God. It’s nice to pray corporately on Sunday morning…and with Bible Study groups, but there is something special about having time alone with God. It’s like having time alone with a special friend—when you don’t have to hurry. You can just sit and enjoy the conversation and even time when no one says anything. It is important to listen, too. If you do all the talking, what good is that? Listen. Shut off your own thoughts and agenda for even just a few minutes and listen intently. What do you hear? 

RSVP: Jesus is inviting you today to pray…and to listen to the Father’s voice. It may be a still small voice or one booming in your heart and ears. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Jesus…thank you for this reminder to pray secretly. Hear the prayers I whisper into Your ear today. There are so many needs…and praises. As written in Philippians 4:6-7…Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. …It is that peace that I seek…and I privately request from You.

 

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Giving Secretly

Thus, whenever you give to the poor, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites in the synagogues and in the streets like to do, that they may be recognized and honored and praised by men. Truly I tell you, they have their reward in full already.  But when you give to charity, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your deeds of charity may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly. Matthew 6:2-4 Amplified 

Hush-Hush. Don’t tell anyone what you are giving—tithes, offerings, special gifts, charity gifts, contributions or handouts. It’s between you and God…it all belongs to Him anyway. 

I’ve spent the day shuffling papers, books, discarded items for Goodwill…and this is just the start. How did we accumulate so much paperwork in 42 years? Is it possible to condense it?  Does any of it deal with gifts or giving? Not much. But we do have to keep investment papers and tax records. And then there are photographs, notes, and old recipes from gourmet club that are more than 40 years old now. Is my time better spent doing something for the Lord or studying His word than looking at old papers? Get rid of it already…but don’t give the paperwork to the poor—they wouldn’t want it either! “Have a place for everything…and everything in its place” became my motto a few years ago. Everything belongs to God…so take care of it as He would…and don’t let it overpower you! I guess I can’t shout from the street corner when I get it all organized and reduced to a manageable amount. No one will praise or honor me for what I should have been doing in the first place. Organizing my stuff—and quietly giving useable item to charity.   

RSVP: Jesus was advising His followers, including us, to quietly give to charity and not make a show or production of it. Don’t call attention to our actions. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, help me to deal wisely with the accumulation of paraphernalia that is overpowering my life. As is written in Philippians 4:10-13 (The Message)…I’m glad in God, far happier than any one would ever guess—happy that my brothers and sisters in Christ are again showing such strong concern for me. Not that they ever quit praying and thinking about me. They just had no chance to show it. Actually, I don’t have a sense of needing anything personally. I’ve learned by now to be quite content whatever my circumstances. I’m just as happy with little as with much, with much as with little. I’ve found the recipe for being happy whether full or hungry, hands full or hands empty. Whatever I have, wherever I am, I can make it through anything in You, Jesus, for it is You who makes me who I am. ...And now I'll give quietly as You've taught.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Anonymous Deeds

Take care not to do your good deeds publicly or before men, in order to be seen by them; otherwise you will have no reward [reserved for and awaiting you] with and from your Father Who is in heaven. Matthew 6:1 Amplified

If everyone were to boast about their good deeds—good works—then those actions would become meaningless. No reward—not even any self-satisfaction when someone has to boast about themselves. Look what I did…how great am I?! What kind of person is so egotistical as that? Like the Pharisees? That is probably who Jesus didn’t want His followers to imitate…to become. Self-righteous. Self-righteousness is not rewarded by the Heavenly Father. No bragging.

RSVP: Jesus is telling His followers not to be braggers…to be humble and that the Heavenly Father would reward them for their actions…good deeds. How will He see your good deeds today? How will you respond to Him?                                                                                                              

Prayer ~ Jesus, let my light shine before our Heavenly Father…not before men. May the things I do for You not draw attention to me…but to You. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

I’ve been feeling a little under the weather—fighting a cold—for a few days. A friend surprised me and delivered a tasty treat this evening. What a way to perk up my day! She’s not a boaster…it was quietly, secretively delivered. Sweets from a sweet Child of the King. May God richly reward her! 

Tea Treats - Lemon Pound Cake 

1/2 cup butter, melted

1 cup sugar

2 eggs, well beaten

2 tablespoon lemon juice

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 cup milk 

Grease and flour a loaf pan. Pre-heat the oven to 325°F.

Mix together sugar and butter. Add eggs and lemon juice; mix well. Add salt, flour, and baking powder to mixture. Add milk. Pour the batter into pan and bake for 1 hour, or until golden brown. 

For a sweeter fancy cake, mix 1/3 cup lemon juice and 1/4 cup sugar. Use a toothpick to make holes in top of cake and drizzle lemon juice and sugar mixture over the top of the cake when you remove it from the oven. Or frost with your favorite frosting.   

For tea, slice thin and top with a dab of cream cheese and half a raspberry, slice of  strawberry or slivered almonds.

 © 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Can We Be Perfect?

To show that you are the children of your Father Who is in heaven; for He makes His sun rise on the wicked and on the good, and makes the rain fall upon the upright and the wrongdoers [alike]. For if you love those who love you, what reward can you have? Do not even the tax collectors do that? And if you greet only your brethren, what more than others are you doing? Do not even the Gentiles (the heathen) do that? You, therefore, must be perfect [growing into complete maturity of godliness in mind and character, having reached the proper height of virtue and integrity], as your heavenly Father is perfect. Matthew 5:45-48 Amplified

Be perfect. Perfect—without fault. Wow. That is a big order. Be good and kind, do what is right. Those things we can do, but “be perfect” is a hard one. We think of only Jesus being perfect. So we must strive to be like Jesus. These Amplified Bible verses gives some further guidance…maturing in Christian character—especially with virtue and integrity. Virtue or moral excellency and integrity or honesty are Christian traits that are of utmost value. The integrity of the upright will guide them, but the crookedness of the treacherous will destroy them. Proverbs 11:3. Love others…neighbors and enemies…with utmost virtue and integrity. That would be what Jesus would do. So that is what we should do—to be perfect like Jesus.

RSVP: Jesus is calling His followers to be perfect like our Heavenly Father is…like He is. How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Dear Heavenly Father…just as it is written in James 1:2-4…We consider it all joy, when we encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of our faith produces endurance; and let endurance have its perfect result, so that we may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing. Perfect…like Jesus.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Pray For Those Who Persecute You

You have heard that it was said, You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy; But I tell you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you…. Matthew 5:43-44 Amplified 

Love your neighbor as yourself…love your enemies. Jesus teaches more than just loving our enemies…But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High; for He Himself is kind to ungrateful and evil men. Luke 6:35. Who are our enemies? Those who are doing battle/fighting with the United States…but closer to home, those who just have different goals and ideals than we have. They may be of another religion—wanting to persecute the Christians. Yes. I’d agree that they would be my “enemy” but we can even see enemies as subversive groups who would want to change the American way of life…and seek a communist agenda for our nation. Pray for those who would persecute you. That was Jesus’ advice—good for His followers then and good for us now. Pray.  

RSVP: Jesus is telling us to love even our enemies…love—do good for them—lend them food, clothing, shelter and expect nothing in return. Treat them with respect and pray for them. How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, there are people with whom I don’t feel comfortable and it’s hard to love an enemy. But because You’ve directed us to “love your enemies” I will do what I can to show them grace, compassion, and to do good things for them. I pray that they would come to know You as their Lord and Savior. That is more important than anything in life. Thank you for hearing my prayers.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

 

Giving to the Beggar

Give to him who keeps on begging from you, and do not turn away from him who would borrow [at interest] from you. Matthew 5:42 Amplified 

Neither a borrower nor a lender be…. Jesus is telling us here to give…and to lend. If God has blessed us, then we should share. It all belongs to Him anyway, right? We come into this world with nothing…and leave with nothing. We can’t take it with us, but it is nice to leave our families secure—so they don’t have to be the beggars or borrowers. If they become beggars…will you take care of them? Makes me want to give to those beggars that we see on the street corners with the signs…HOMELESS—PLEASE HELP or WILL WORK FOR FOOD. I’ve heard that those people make a pretty good income. In the city of Spokane I once saw two beggars arguing over who could “work” a particular street corner. Pushing and shoving—angry faces—belligerent voices. I didn’t want to stick around there. They had a racket going. Do I need to give to them? I don’t think so…but Jesus says to give. Maybe I need to rethink this begging issue. Would they want a loan? 

RSVP: Jesus is telling us to give to those begging and to lend if we are asked. Is there something we can give them spiritually as well as monetarily? How will you respond to Him today? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, help me to see and meet the needs of those who are begging and needy—physically and spiritually. Give me wisdom to know how to help them. 

Happy Anniversary, Lisa & Kim.

Blessings on you…today and always.

Love & Prayers.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Go the Extra Mile - Give Extra Effort

You have heard that it was said, an eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.  But I say to you, Do not resist the evil man [who injures you]; but if anyone strikes you on the right jaw or cheek, turn to him the other one too.  And if anyone wants to sue you and take your undershirt (tunic), let him have your coat also.  And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two [miles]. Matthew 5:38-41 Amplified

On a hot day along a dusty road it may be difficult to walk one mile…carrying someone’s pack. So going two miles or more may be even more arduous. But that is just what Jesus is suggesting…go the extra mile—turn the other cheek—do more than is expected of you. At work—give extra effort. If something seems “good enough,” it isn’t. Do your best, not just good enough. I like this verse…Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. Colossians 3:23 NLT. (See December 29, 2013 blog post.) It reminds me of the first time I heard that verse and was battling with a bad attitude about ironing my husband’s work shirts. When I started ironing them…as if ironing them for Jesus Himself, suddenly it wasn’t such a horrible task and my servant hood attitude changed. I try to apply that same attitude to all my housework…even cleaning toilets. If it seems just good enough—it isn’t. Clean the floors, toilet, and walls as sparkling clean as I would if Jesus were going to visit today. Is that like going an extra mile?   

RSVP: Jesus is calling us to do more than is expected of us. What can we do beyond what He wants us to do for Him? Helping others, serving, giving, and teaching others about Him? How will you respond to Him today?

Prayer ~ I thank you Christ Jesus my Lord, for You have given me strength to do Your work. You considered me trustworthy and appointed me to serve You…1 Timothy 1:12 NLT. Give me skill and vision to see beyond myself, to have a good attitude and be willing to give extra effort to anything I do.

Happy 35^th Anniversary—Joe & Deb.

© 2014 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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