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 230,000 page views by people in over 135 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.

Saturday, February 28, 2015

Jeremiah Listened – Do We?

The LORD gave me this message: "I knew you before I formed you in your mother's womb. Before you were born I set you apart and appointed you as my prophet to the nations." "O Sovereign LORD," I said, "I can't speak for you! I'm too young!" The LORD replied, "Don't say, 'I'm too young,' for you must go wherever I send you and say whatever I tell you. And don't be afraid of the people, for I will be with you and will protect you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Then the LORD reached out and touched my mouth and said, "Look, I have put my words in your mouth! ... I will pronounce judgment on my people for all their evil—for deserting me and burning incense to other gods. Yes, they worship idols made with their own hands! Get up and prepare for action. Go out and tell them everything I tell you to say. Do not be afraid of them, or I will make you look foolish in front of them. ... They will fight you, but they will fail. For I am with you, and I will take care of you. I, the LORD, have spoken!" Jeremiah 1:4-9, 16-17, 19 NLT

Youth. They can be so afraid…but then can’t we all. Are you comfortable speaking in front of a large group of people? Even a small group of people—especially with a message from the highest one? Do you think you’ll make a fool of yourself? God was giving Jeremiah the words to say—and once again, He promised to be with Jeremiah and take care of him. The Holy Spirit spoke to and through Jeremiah for more than forty years. What a message he had to deliver to the people of Israel—doom and judgment. Other nations were prophesied against also including Egypt, the Philistine, Moab, Ammon, Edom, Damascus, Arabia, Elam and Babylon. God said to “tell them everything I tell you to say.” God was speaking—and He wasn’t being soft or joking—He was serious about what He expected from the Israelites and was deeply offended by the people of the other countries, too.

For the LORD of Heaven's Armies has not abandoned Israel and Judah. He is still their God, even though their land was filled with sin against the Holy One of Israel. Jeremiah 51:5 NLT. What a promise! God’s army of heavenly angels has not abandoned—given up on—Israel. God makes promises that He WILL keep. He is still the God of Israel…and like He has promised those who love and serve Him…He will never leave or forsake them—even if they’ve sinned again Him. He is God—He is in control. Everyone has choices—and there are repercussions for making poor or selfish choices. We still live by the opportunities for choices and consequences now. Will you choose to honor God today with your thoughts, words and actions?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Jeremiah was reluctant at first to speak for You—but he was obedient. Help me to be obedient, too.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Friday, February 27, 2015

Zephaniah Who?

Be silent before the Lord GOD! For the day of the LORD is near, for the LORD has prepared a sacrifice, He has consecrated His guests. Zephaniah 1:7

Zephaniah who…or maybe that should be where? Zephaniah means “he who the Lord has hidden.” The Lord consecrated His guests—did that mean that they were filled with the Holy Spirit? Consecrated—set apart. The day of the Lord is that day, that terrible day… For see, the day of the LORD is coming—the terrible day of His fury and fierce anger. The land will be made desolate, and all the sinners destroyed with it. Isaiah 13:9 NLT. That day is near—always near. The Lord continued the prophesy on Judah through Zephaniah saying… It will come about at that time that I will search Jerusalem with lamps, and I will punish the men who are stagnant in spirit, who say in their hearts, 'The LORD will not do good or evil!' Zephaniah 1:12. Men who are stagnant…sluggish or apathetic…will be punished. Can we apply this to people of our times and place, too? Apathetic spirits, not caring about God? God is in our midst—whether we know it or not. He cares about us…about mankind—whether we want and seek His love or not. The LORD your God is in your midst, a victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. Zephaniah 3:17. Give God joy in your life…seek Him. Don’t be apathetic. The day of the Lord is near. Are you ready for Him?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, consecrate my life. May I be a guest at Your table and bring You honor and glory in all that I think, do and say as the day of the Lord draws near.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Since February is National Heart Month, it is a good time to consider eating good foods and exercising. Exercise at least 20 minutes every day and then feast on the bounty God has provided for us. Here are some healthy heart foods to consider in your menu planning:

· Chick peas – hummus, minestrone soup

· Sardines and salmon – high in omega 3’s

· Leafy greens – contain magnesium essential to a healthy heart – includes spinach, kale, Swiss chard, broccoli, romaine lettuce

· Wine – in moderation if your religion and personal conviction allow. Adults only, dilute if you wish, but do serve your kiddos concord grape juice, no sugar added.

· Milk – even almond or coconut milk – high in calcium and Vitamin D

· Almonds

· Oats

· Fresh fruits – in the colors of the rainbow

What can you do with these food items? How about a spinach salad with salmon, almonds, chick peas and a red wine vinegar and olive oil dressing? A little oatmeal with fresh blueberries, cinnamon, honey, and milk for breakfast rounds out the food list. So choose some healthy foods and feast on them, not just today or during February, but include good fresh foods at every meal all year around. Shop the outside aisles of your supermarket—that’s where the fresh foods are located. Enjoy a Banquet at the Lord’s Table.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Thursday, February 26, 2015

The Holy Spirit for All Mankind

Blow a trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm on My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the LORD is coming; surely it is near…. Joel 2:1

Thus you will know that I am in the midst of Israel, and that I am the LORD your God, and there is no other; and My people will never be put to shame. It will come about after this that I will pour out My Spirit on all mankind; and your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. Even on the male and female servants I will pour out My Spirit in those days. Joel 2:27-29

The day of the Lord will be an unexpected, horrific day…with the Lord’s anger released in a dark and confusing world.

For see, the day of the LORD is coming--the terrible day of His fury and fierce anger. The land will be made desolate, and all the sinners destroyed with it. Isaiah 13:9 NLT

Yes, the day of the LORD will be dark and hopeless, without a ray of joy or hope. Amos 5:20 NLT

The sun will become dark, and the moon will turn blood red before that great and glorious day of the LORD arrives. Acts 2:20 NLT

But the day of the Lord will come as unexpectedly as a thief. Then the heavens will pass away with a terrible noise, and the very elements themselves will disappear in fire, and the earth and everything on it will be found to deserve judgment. 2 Peter 3:10 NLT

On that day God will pour out His Spirit on all mankind. What a promise! Not that the Holy Spirit would be on everyone who is good…or rich…or kind…but on everyone. God’s people—Israel—would never be put to shame. Another awesome promise. Most of the world is so bent now on destroying Israel…either physically or just politically. So few stand behind and beside them. Even within the United States there are strong opinions to for the US to be neutral with Israel and Palestine (www.counterpunch.org) while Israel is developing strong economic ties with China and India. God will always be on Israel’s side in the end. They are still His chosen people. The Holy Spirit anointed and spoke through Joel not only to Israel, but to the whole world.

"At the time of those events," says the LORD, "when I restore the prosperity of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather the armies of the world into the valley of Jehoshaphat. There I will judge them for harming my people, my special possession, for scattering my people among the nations, and for dividing up my land. ... But Judah will be filled with people forever, and Jerusalem will endure through all generations. I will pardon my people's crimes, which I have not yet pardoned; and I, the LORD, will make my home in Jerusalem with my people." Joel 3:1-2, 20-21 NLT

Where do you stand in regards to Israel? Will you pray for them? Are you ready for the day of the Lord?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide our hearts, thoughts, minds, words and actions that all we think, say and do in regards to You and Your chosen people would honor You. May we live to serve You…and the people You love…the Christians and the Jews.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Wednesday, February 25, 2015

Message Through Hosea

The LORD gave this message to Hosea son of Beeri during the years when Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah, and Jeroboam son of Jehoash was king of Israel. Hosea 1:1 NLT

Hear the word of the LORD, O people of Israel! The LORD has brought charges against you, saying: "There is no faithfulness, no kindness, no knowledge of God in your land. Hosea 4:1 NLT

The Holy Spirit speaks to the people of the Northern Kingdom—Israel or Ephraim—through Hosea for fifty years. He uses Hosea’s life and marriage to a harlot to influence His people—to show them their own way. My people consult their wooden idol, and their diviner's wand informs them; for a spirit of harlotry has led them astray, and they have played the harlot, departing from their God. Hosea 4:12. Through all the prophesies of Hosea, God does not give up on His chosen people—Israel. God declares… I will not execute My fierce anger; I will not destroy Ephraim again. For I am God and not man, the Holy One in your midst, and I will not come in wrath. Hosea 11:9. God shows His love and mercy to Israel. May we all heed the advice given to Israel. Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. Hosea 14:9 NLT. May we be wise and understand these things.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give us wisdom and understanding that we would live to please You and honor You in all that we think, say and do.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Amos the Prophet

The words of Amos, who was among the sheepherders from Tekoa, which he envisioned in visions concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam son of Joash, king of Israel, two years before the earthquake. Amos 1:1

Amos was given a vision by the Holy Spirit to guide him as to what to tell the people of Israel and of the neighboring countries. He was just an ordinary guy—a sheep breeder, but obedient to the Lord.

Amos didn’t consider himself a prophet, but God had other ideas. Then Amos replied to Amaziah (the priest of Bethel), "I am not a prophet, nor am I the son of a prophet; for I am a herdsman and a grower of sycamore figs. But the LORD took me from following the flock and the LORD said to me, 'Go prophesy to My people Israel.'" Amos 7:14-15. The Holy Spirit gave Amos several prophesies about Israel with the final one foretelling about the last days and a future blessing. It is this prophesy that tells about restoring the captivity of His people, rebuilding the cities and replanting the land. Permanently. That is exciting news for the Jews that has encouraged them for centuries. Do you pray regularly for the nation of Israel?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, just as You gave Amos a vision for Israel, give us insight for understanding of the nation of Israel. God chose Israel to be His chosen people, so I pray that You would bless and guide them and give the people there the strength that they need to face the challenges ahead for them. Just as Moses told Israel…"Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the LORD your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6.

Happy Birthday, Debbie. May God continue to richly bless you as you serve Him and create such wonderful quilting projects using the gifts with which He has so amazingly blessed you!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Monday, February 23, 2015

Humbly Honored by the Lord

David became greater and greater, for the LORD God of hosts was with him. ... And David realized that the LORD had established him as king over Israel, and that He had exalted his kingdom for the sake of His people Israel. 2 Samuel 5:10, 12

Wow! What an awesome revelation to David—chosen and exalted by the Lord God Himself. How humbling. The LORD said, "I have made a covenant with David, my chosen servant. I have sworn this oath to him: 'I will establish your descendants as kings forever; they will sit on your throne from now until eternity.'" Psalm 89:3-4 NLT.

All Christians today can claim to be chosen…For God knew His people in advance, and He chose them to become like His Son, so that His Son would be the firstborn among many brothers and sisters. And having chosen them, He called them to come to him. And having called them, He gave them right standing with himself. And having given them right standing, He gave them His glory. What shall we say about such wonderful things as these? If God is for us, who can ever be against us? Romans 8:29-31 NLT

We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ. We know, dear brothers and sisters, that God loves you and has chosen you to be his own people. 1Thessalonians 1:2-4 NLT. Chosen and set apart. Of all the billions of people in the world over all the ages…and He has chosen you and chosen me to be His children. So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when He adopted you as His own children. Now we call Him, "Abba, Father." Romans 8:15 NLT. David didn’t have to be “adopted”—he was part of Abraham’s family so he was under the original covenant. Those of us who are not Jews have to be chosen…adopted to be part of God’s family. What an honor—a privilege. Are you part of God’s family?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, thank you for choosing me, as well as members of my family and friends, to be part of Your family. I am humbled and honored to be a child of the King. Help me to live today in such a way as to bring glory and honor to You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Sunday, February 22, 2015

Glory in the Inner Court

The glory of the LORD entered the temple by way of the gate that faced east. Then the Spirit lifted me up and brought me to the inner court, and the glory of the LORD filled the temple. While the man was standing beside me, I heard someone speaking to me from the temple. He said to me: "Son of man, this is the place of My throne and the place for the soles of My feet, where I will dwell among the Israelites forever. The house of Israel and their kings will no longer defile My holy name by their religious prostitution and by the corpses of their kings at their high places. Ezekiel 43:4-7 HCSB

Imagine the Spirit of God picking you up and putting you in the inner court of the Temple…and the Glory of God surrounding you. Like Ezekiel. How awesome would that be?! The omnipresent power of God enveloping you with His strength and energy—a radiant light of virtually all colors moving and whirling about the inner court space. A warmth and love speaking to you—and you hear Him with more than your ears…with your whole being. He is holy. You want to fall on your face. He is speaking to you about “forever”…forever He will dwell—live…reside…inhabit—in this land with the Israelites. Forever. Forever seated on His throne with His feet on the earth…on Israeli soil. Blessed are those people who will see the Lord on His throne. Blessed are those who feel His presence daily. Do you feel His presence in your life? Practice that. Feeling His presence. Enter into His Holy Inner Court and worship Him. The choice is yours. Life is a series of choices…you choose.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I choose You. To know You more fully and to serve You more completely. Please reveal more of Yourself to me every day.

Happy 6th Birthday, Grandson Isaac!

Happy Birthday, Vicky. Blessings.

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

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

Ask For Help

Save me, O God, by Your name, and vindicate me by Your power. Hear my prayer, O God; give ear to the words of my mouth. For strangers have risen against me and violent men have sought my life; they have not set God before them. Selah. Behold, God is my helper; The Lord is the sustainer of my soul. He will recompense the evil to my foes; destroy them in Your faithfulness. Willingly I will sacrifice to You; I will give thanks to Your name, O LORD, for it is good. For He has delivered me from all trouble, and my eye has looked with satisfaction upon my enemies. Psalm 54:1-7

David wrote this while hiding from Saul—and being revealed by the treacherous Ziphites. (See 1 Samuel 23.) He was asking God—the Holy Spirit—to save him from his enemies. A little later God’s promise is shown in 2 Samuel 5 when David becomes king over Israel. God certainly did bless David, as He rescued him from his enemies—before and after he became king.

Who are your enemies? I’ve decided that I am my own worst enemy…my attitude and selfish desires—dare I say rebellious—to have my own time…to do my own will—have set me up to be a victim of a lack of time. Time to do God’s work—to serve and encourage other.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—please continue to help me surrender my attitude towards others and my selfish desires that I would be in step with Your will…walking down Your path. I know there will be troubles in this world…but I know that You have promised to be with us…to never leave us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6,8). Help me, my family, friends and neighbors to be strong and courageous as we face the circumstances of life. May we all rejoice in knowing You and Your lovingkindness.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Saturday, February 21, 2015

Calling Out to the Holy Spirit

Then Solomon stood before the altar of the LORD in the presence of all the assembly of Israel and spread out his hands toward heaven. He said, "O LORD, the God of Israel, there is no God like You in heaven above or on earth beneath, keeping covenant and showing lovingkindness to Your servants who walk before You with all their heart, who have kept with Your servant, my father David, that which You have promised him; indeed, You have spoken with Your mouth and have fulfilled it with Your hand as it is this day." 1 Kings 8:22-24

This doesn’t look like a filling of the Holy Spirit—but Solomon is offering a praise to God—there is no God like our God. God in His lovingkindness revealed Himself as the God of Israel. Covenant. That word appears 316 times in the NASB version of the Bible. Keeping a covenant is a very honorable thing…and God made that covenant with Abram—it wasn’t Abram chasing after God to get Him to make a covenant. God made the covenant—an alliance—a divine promise that He would provide for Abram and his offspring. Read Genesis 15. Later God changes Abram’s name to Abraham. So here Solomon is remembering the covenant that God had made with Abraham. He was part of Abraham’s family…and most recently God promised to establish the throne of David forever…Solomon’s father’s throne…that was now his throne. Solomon’s prayer continues on to ask God for His continued presence and protection. Protection that would be provided by the Holy Spirit. How often do we ask for protection from the Holy Spirit? Every time we ask for traveling mercy…for safety for ourselves, our family and friends. When we are afraid of something we call out to God…protect us. Yes. We call out to God…to the Holy Spirit.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please protect me, my family, friends and neighbors. Help us to make good decisions and put a hedge of protection around us as trouble draws near—as it inevitably will. Thank You for Your quiet love, guidance and security.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Friday, February 20, 2015

Lovingkindness

When your days are complete and you lie down with your fathers, I will raise up your descendant after you, who will come forth from you, and I will establish his kingdom. He shall build a house for My name, and I will establish the throne of his kingdom forever. I will be a father to him and he will be a son to Me; when he commits iniquity, I will correct him with the rod of men and the strokes of the sons of men, but My lovingkindness shall not depart from him, as I took it away from Saul, whom I removed from before you. Your house and your kingdom shall endure before Me forever; your throne shall be established forever. 2 Samuel 7:12-16

Nathan spoke these words of God to David. So it would be David’s son who would build God’s house—not David. Not only that, but God promised that His lovingkindness—that of the Holy Spirit. Lovingkindness is a word that combines goodness, kindness, and faithfulness. Those are part of the fruit of the Spirit—see Galatians 5:22… But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22-23. What a promise—lovingkindness would not depart from David’s son! But Solomon didn’t live up to God’s standards. God is still faithful in His love for even His unfaithful followers. David wrote about God’s lovingkindness…The LORD is compassionate and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in lovingkindness. He will not always strive with us, nor will He keep His anger forever. He has not dealt with us according to our sins, nor rewarded us according to our iniquities. For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is His lovingkindness toward those who fear Him. Psalm 103:8-11. God is worthy of our love and respect. How are you showing Him respect and sharing with others God’s lovingkindness today?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, shower me with Your lovingkindness. I am unworthy, but like David, I am repentant. I do not want to hold onto anger. I deeply respect, love and honor You all the days of my life and I look forward to dwelling in Your house forever.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Are you giving up something for Lent? Some people have the Lenten custom of giving up sweets, favorite foods, coffee, sodas, a meal each day, sleeping in a comfortable bed, or a favorite television programs. Are they doing this in devotion to Jesus? If you abstain from those or other things will that help you focus on Jesus, His life, ministry and His death? Consider a meatless or fish meal for today.

Grilled Fish Salad
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon ground ginger
¼ teaspoon dried parsley flakes
¼ teaspoon pepper
4 fish fillets (6 ounces each) – salmon, cod, halibut, tilapia or other fish
1 package (5 ounces) spring mix salad greens
1 large cucumber, chopped
1 large tomato, chopped

½ cup crumbled goat cheese

¼ cup red wine vinaigrette

Rinse and dry fish. Sprinkle with lemon juice. Combine the seasonings; sprinkle over fish. Moisten a paper towel with cooking oil; using long-handled tongs, lightly coat the grill rack. Place fish skin side down on grill rack. Grill, covered, over medium heat or broil 4 in. from the heat for 10-12 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cucumber, tomato and goat cheese; divide among four plates. Top with fish; drizzle with vinaigrette. Yield: 4 servings.

Adapted from: http://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/feta-salmon-salad#ixzz3SEfhRuGB

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Thursday, February 19, 2015

The Holy Spirit Guiding the Prophet

But in the same night the word of the LORD came to Nathan, saying, "Go and say to My servant David, 'Thus says the LORD, are you the one who should build Me a house to dwell in?'" ... In accordance with all these words and all this vision, so Nathan spoke to David. 2 Samuel 7:4-5, 17

These verses and the verses in between (vv. 6-16) illustrate how God used the prophet Nathan to convey His message to David. God spoke to Nathan and gave him a vision. Now days when someone has a vision it is more likely that they are just seeing the purpose or “big picture” of something—but this may have been a real vision. Technicolor? Surround sound? At any rate, Nathan was guided by God—the Holy Spirit—to speak to David. David really wanted to build a house for God…to keep the Ark of the Covenant and to provide a permanent place to worship God. Nathan revealed God’s message to David…and then David spoke to God himself. David had really been through too much as a warrior—too much killing for God to allow him to build a sacred and holy temple for the Lord. God requires holiness—purity. With all the sin that David had committed—even though he repented—he was still too unclean to prepare a holy place for the living God. Keep on reading more of 2 Samuel 7. David acknowledges how awesome our God is…For this reason You are great, O Lord GOD; for there is none like You, and there is no God besides You, according to all that we have heard with our ears. 2 Samuel 7:22. So do you recognize God as awesome…that there is no other God like Him?

Are you looking for God—for the Holy Spirit—during this season of Lent?

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I am searching for You with all of my heart. Please continue to reveal Yourself to me…and to guide me in all that I think, say and do.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

The Holy Spirit in God’s People

For He said, "Surely, they are My people, sons who will not deal falsely." So He became their Savior. In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them; In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, and He lifted them and carried them all the days of old. But they rebelled and grieved His Holy Spirit; Therefore He turned Himself to become their enemy, He fought against them. Then His people remembered the days of old, of Moses. Where is He who brought them up out of the sea with the shepherds of His flock? Where is He who put His Holy Spirit in the midst of them…? Isaiah 63:8-11

God—the Father—put The Holy Spirit in the midst of His chosen people—the Israelites—as they left in that mass exodus from Egypt. A group infilling or indwelling. What an honor to be God’s chosen people, but did they realize how special they were? Apparently not. They just didn’t see the big picture—but when there were maybe as many as two million people traveling together it may have been that there were just too many for the ordinary person to really grasp the magnitude of what was happening. Moses wasn’t saving them…God was. They were His people and He was rescuing them from the Egyptians. He was bringing them back to the land that He had promised Abraham that He would give his family. But they were a rebellious group and didn’t appreciate all that God was doing—that He had done. As believers we are chosen by God to be part of His family. Chosen and set apart. Are we like those rebellious children who caused the Holy Spirit grief? Do we go our own way…have our own plans that we rationalize are God’s plans…His will? What were the Israelites motives…what are our motives? What drives us to do the things we do?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, thank you for being in our midst—and for pouring out Your very spirit on us…that we would praise You—along with the Father and His Son, Jesus. You are worthy of praise. I especially thank you for answering our prayers for Julia…and may she continue to grow, heal and thrive in Your love and grace.

Ash Wednesday – The beginning of Lent—40 days before Resurrection Sunday also known as Easter.

How will you celebrate these days—to honor our Lord and Savior?

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Tuesday, February 17, 2015

Are You Like Daniel?

But finally Daniel came in before me, whose name is Belteshazzar according to the name of my god, and in whom is a spirit of the holy gods; and I related the dream to him, saying, 'O Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, since I know that a spirit of the holy gods is in you and no mystery baffles you, tell me the visions of my dream which I have seen, along with its interpretation. ... 'This is the dream which I, King Nebuchadnezzar, have seen. Now you, Belteshazzar, tell me its interpretation, inasmuch as none of the wise men of my kingdom is able to make known to me the interpretation; but you are able, for a spirit of the holy gods is in you.' Daniel 4:8-9, 18

Daniel was an amazing Jewish man—taken into captivity in Babylon when he was just a teenager, he lived the rest of his life worshiping His God—our God—while serving the kings of his captors. God gave him such wisdom, for the interpretation of kings’ dreams and for astonishing visions concerning prophesies that are yet to come. King Nebuchadnezzar recognized that the spirit of the holy god—The Holy Spirit—was in Daniel. The king had sent Daniel’s friends into a fiery furnace that would have instantly killed them—but instead with they walked about in the furnace with a fourth man. Was it Christ or an angel? Nebuchadnezzar himself call those men out of the fiery furnace and praised their God, because they put their trust in their God. He even decreed that no one in his kingdom should speak offensively against this Most High God. Do you ever speak or even think offensively against our God? For as he thinks within himself, so he is. Proverbs 23:7. As a person thinks…not as they “say”…is the key here. God knows our thoughts. The LORD knows the thoughts of man, that they are a mere breath. Psalm 94:11. Keep your thoughts pure and holy before the Lord…and you will be recognized by others as having the Spirit of God—the Holy Spirit within you, like Daniel.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, may others see You in me…and may they seek and love You with all their heart, soul and mind.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted. Biblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm

Monday, February 16, 2015

Acknowledge the Holy Spirit

But I tell you the truth, it is to your advantage that I go away; for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you; but if I go, I will send Him to you. John 16:7

Most Christians talk about Jesus coming into their heart…and Jesus being with them. Luke wrote about Jesus speaking to the Sanhedrin before His crucifixion and then resurrection… But from now on THE SON OF MAN WILL BE SEATED AT THE RIGHT HAND of the power OF GOD. Luke 22:69. From now on…of course until He comes back. For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17. So the way I see it is that Jesus is in Heaven, seated at the right hand and He is pretty busy up there building a house for His bride, the church. It is just like the Jewish custom of the bridegroom preparing a home for his bride. 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. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:2-3. So as the verse in John 16:7 says…Jesus went away and sent the Helper—the Holy Spirit—to be with us…to be our Helper and Intercessor. Unlike when the Holy Spirit came briefly to people in the Old Testament, He remains with us—a constant companion. With the grace of God and the help of the Holy Spirit we are sanctified—set apart for His purpose—holy. For God has not called us for the purpose of impurity, but in sanctification. So, he who rejects this is not rejecting man but the God who gives His Holy Spirit to you. 1 Thessalonians 4:7-8. So believers, it the Holy Spirit within you…within me…that we should be recognizing and acknowledging.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Thank You for coming into the hearts of all who acknowledge Jesus as the Son of God…and accept God’s gift of grace.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.
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Sunday, February 15, 2015

Qualities of the Holy Spirit

But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:8 NLT

I’ve been blogging about the Holy Spirit this year…and it is about time to step back and consider the Qualities of the Holy Spirit. Of course He is part of God…so He has the God qualities of Omniscient, Omnipresent, Immutable, Omnificent, Eternal, Truth, and Love. In addition, Galatians 5:22-23 gives us a list of the fruit of the Spirit…But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23 NLT. These qualities are the fruit--the resultant behavior--that is produced in those who live holy lives before the Lord. Holiness is not an option…it is a command…As obedient children, do not be conformed to the former lusts which were yours in your ignorance, but like the Holy One who called you, be holy yourselves also in all your behavior; because it is written, "YOU SHALL BE HOLY, FOR I AM HOLY." - 1 Peter 1:14-16.

So live your love…and be holy.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, open our eyes that we may see You more completely and guide us in all that we think, say and do to live our lives holy producing the fruit of Your Spirit.

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

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Happy Valentine’s Day—Loved Ones

And I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them. And I will take the heart of stone out of their flesh and give them a heart of flesh…. Ezekiel 11:19

What a promise from God…take away the heart of stone and give them a heart of flesh! That would be a loving heart. Good thing to reflect on this Valentine’s Day. My wish for everyone is a new heart—one filled with the Spirit of God—one that would make each and every one of us more loving. It is love that cures the inner ills of the world—that heals the brokenhearted and changes attitudes. Attitudes are what makes or breaks a relationship. Can you be accepting of others faults? Are you willing to put others first?

Therefore if there is any encouragement in Christ, if there is any consolation of love, if there is any fellowship of the Spirit, if any affection and compassion, make my joy complete by being of the same mind, maintaining the same love, united in spirit, intent on one purpose. Do nothing from selfishness or empty conceit, but with humility of mind regard one another as more important than yourselves; do not merely look out for your own personal interests, but also for the interests of others. Have this attitude in yourselves which was also in Christ Jesus…. Philippians 2:1-5.

So…Happy Valentine’s Day to every one reading this. May God richly bless you as you serve others in His love.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit…May you fill each heart with Your love and grace and guide each of us in living the way that You would have us to live…with LOVE.

Please keep praying for Baby Julia--a healing touch to this precious little one.

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

Friday, February 13, 2015

Upside Down World

Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of Your salvation and sustain me with a willing spirit. Psalm 51:11-12

Does your world sometimes seem like it has turned upside down? It did for David. Choices that he made resulted in sin that separated him from God. That’s what sin does—it separates us from our God because He is pure…and only purity can be in His presence. David was repentant—he was truly sorry for his mistakes and pleaded with the Lord God for His mercy, grace and forgiveness. God forgives when we come to Him with repentant hearts—just like He forgave David. David became known as a man after God’s own heart because of his repentant attitude. How is your attitude today? Are you repentant or rebellious?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, don’t leave me alone in my upside down world. Help me adjust my attitude to be accepting of others and not expect them to deal with life the way that I think we should. Help us all to accept our daily stresses and dilemmas with grace. Above all, Lord, please provide a healing touch to baby Julia.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

When your world is upside down—have some upside down cake. This was my mother’s favorite dessert and she would frequently have us kids fix it for dinner on the weekends. Just the smell of it brings back fond memories.

Pineapple Upside-down Cake

¼ cup butter or margarine

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

9 slices pineapple in juice (from 14-oz can), drained

9 maraschino cherries without stems, if desired

1 1/3 cups flour

1 cup sugar

1/3 cup shortening

1½ teaspoons baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

¾ cup milk

1 egg

Heat oven to 350°F. In 9-inch square pan, melt butter in oven, or microwave if it is a glass pan. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over melted butter. Arrange pineapple slices over brown sugar. Place cherry in center of each pineapple slice.

In medium bowl, beat remaining ingredients with electric mixer on low speed 30 seconds, scraping bowl constantly. Beat on high speed 3 minutes, scraping bowl occasionally. Pour batter over pineapple and cherries.

Bake 50 to 55 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Immediately place heatproof serving plate upside down over pan; turn plate and pan over. Leave pan over cake a few minutes so brown sugar mixture can drizzle over cake; remove pan. Serve warm, with sweetened whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Store cake loosely covered, if there are any leftovers.

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

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

Thursday, February 12, 2015

Are You Brokenhearted?

The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me, because the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the afflicted; He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to captives and freedom to prisoners…. Isaiah 61:1

Isaiah wrote this…and Jesus said it in the synagogue in Nazareth near the beginning of His ministry. We have the Trinity here…the Lord God (the Father), Jesus and the Spirit (the Holy Spirit). Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit when He was baptized…Jesus, full of the Holy Spirit, returned from the Jordan and was led around by the Spirit in the wilderness…for forty days….Luke 4:1. Jesus came to do the work and will of the Heavenly Father…For this is the will of My Father, that everyone who beholds the Son and believes in Him will have eternal life, and I Myself will raise him up on the last day. John 6:40. Believe in the Son. That is the Good News. Eternal life for those who believe in Jesus as the Son of God. So this is your opportunity. Do you believe?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, You are amazing, awesome and astounding. You have anointed countless people throughout the ages…including Jesus. May Your Spirit rest within the hearts of those who read this that they would be drawn to You—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—that they would believe in Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Heal their hearts.

Welcome Baby Julia Pearl!

May God bless you, dear little one. Love and Hugs.

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

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

Wednesday, February 11, 2015

Isaiah Called To Be a Prophet

Then I said, "Woe is me, for I am ruined! Because I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips; for my eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts." Then one of the seraphim flew to me with a burning coal in his hand, which he had taken from the altar with tongs. He touched my mouth with it and said, "Behold, this has touched your lips; and your iniquity is taken away and your sin is forgiven." Then I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, "Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?" Then I said, "Here am I. Send me!" He said, "Go, and tell this people: 'Keep on listening, but do not perceive; keep on looking, but do not understand.' Render the hearts of this people insensitive, their ears dull, and their eyes dim, otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and return and be healed." Isaiah 6:5-10

God spoke through His prophets—filling them with the Holy Spirit as they spoke. Isaiah responded to God…Here am I, send me. Paul quoted this passage of Isaiah (see Acts 28:24-28) to the Jews in Rome in order to convince them of the truth of Jesus—that He is the Son of God, their Messiah, but many of them would not listen. So Paul spoke to anyone who would listen to him, including the Gentiles. Jesus is the Way, the Truth, and the Life—He has the power of Salvation.

Jesus said…I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me. John 14:6

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. Romans 1:16.

The Greeks were representative of the Gentile population—so we Gentiles would be included in that group. Do you believe? Salvation is yours…a gift, freely given by God. For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 6:23. Will you accept this gift given for you and to you?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, may every one that hears this good news of salvation eagerly accept the gift that God the Father gives them. Eternal Life! What gift could be more exciting?

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

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

Tuesday, February 10, 2015

We Are Not God’s Counselor

Who has directed the Spirit of the LORD, or as His counselor has informed Him? Isaiah 40:13

All wisdom and knowledge are from God.

Talk no more so very proudly; Let no arrogance come from your mouth, For the LORD [is] the God of knowledge; and by Him actions are weighed. 1 Samuel 2:3 NKJV

But God has chosen the foolish things of the world to put to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to put to shame the things which are mighty; and the base things of the world and the things which are despised God has chosen, and the things which are not, to bring to nothing the things that are, that no flesh should glory in His presence. But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God--and righteousness and sanctification and redemption…. 1 Corinthians 1:27-30 NKJV

No one can tell God what to do—even though in some prayers it seems like people may be telling, not asking, God for a certain outcome of their dilemma or situation. We just can’t do that—or shouldn’t. God is the one with the power.

So Judah gathered together to ask [help] from the LORD; and from all the cities of Judah they came to seek the LORD. Then Jehoshaphat stood in the assembly of Judah and Jerusalem, in the house of the LORD, before the new court, and said: "O LORD God of our fathers, [are] You not God in heaven, and do You [not] rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand [is there not] power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You? 2 Chronicles 20:4-6 NKJV

We are not God’s counselor—He is ours. Give Him your problems—your troubles. Cast all your cares upon Him. Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and YOU WILL FIND REST FOR YOUR SOULS. Matthew 11:28-29. The Holy Spirit is there for you—whenever you call upon Him.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Thank you for always being a listening ear, for coming to my aid, hearing and answering my prayers. I praise You.

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart. Jeremiah 29:13

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

Monday, February 9, 2015

In the Air

He (Elisha) took the mantle of Elijah that fell from him and struck the waters and said, "Where is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" And when he also had struck the waters, they were divided here and there; and Elisha crossed over. Now when the sons of the prophets who were at Jericho opposite him saw him, they said, "The spirit of Elijah rests on Elisha." And they came to meet him and bowed themselves to the ground before him. They said to him, "Behold now, there are with your servants fifty strong men, please let them go and search for your master; perhaps the Spirit of the LORD has taken him up and cast him on some mountain or into some valley." And he said, "You shall not send." But when they urged him until he was ashamed, he said, "Send." They sent therefore fifty men; and they searched three days but did not find him. 2 Kings 2:14-17

This is the story of power of the prophet Elijah being transferred to the prophet Elisha. Elijah was taken up directly to heaven in a whirlwind with a chariot and horse of fire. (See 2 Kings 2.) In the above portion of the text men went to look for Elijah and thought that the Spirit of the Lord may have taken him—but little did they know that the Lord had taken him not to some remote place, but to Heaven itself. What an experience that must have been—like rapture. Taken directly to heaven—no death! Those who believe in Jesus will experience the same thing if they are alive when Christ returns. Then we who are alive and remain will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we shall always be with the Lord. 1 Thessalonians 4:17. So do you believe in Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior—as the Son of God? Do you have a relationship with Him? If not, seek Him with all of your heart—search for Him. He will reveal Himself to you. Then prepare every day to meet Him and know Him better. Read His Word…the Bible. Tell others what you learn and encourage them to know more about Jesus. And wait for His return. The Rapture will be exciting. I’ll meet you in the air…or over there in Heaven.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, reveal Yourself more each day to each of us. Show us how to live to please You and to share You with everyone around us.

You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.’ Jeremiah 29:11-13

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

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Carried Away To Who Knows Where

As Obadiah was walking along, he suddenly saw Elijah coming toward him. Obadiah recognized him at once and bowed low to the ground before him. "Is it really you, my lord Elijah?" he asked. "Yes, it is," Elijah replied. "Now go and tell your master, 'Elijah is here.'" "Oh, sir," Obadiah protested, "what harm have I done to you that you are sending me to my death at the hands of Ahab? For I swear by the LORD your God that the king has searched every nation and kingdom on earth from end to end to find you. And each time he was told, 'Elijah isn't here,' King Ahab forced the king of that nation to swear to the truth of his claim. And now you say, 'Go and tell your master, "Elijah is here."' But as soon as I leave you, the Spirit of the LORD will carry you away to who knows where. When Ahab comes and cannot find you, he will kill me. Yet I have been a true servant of the LORD all my life. 1 Kings 18:7-12 NLT.

So Obadiah was not filled with the Spirit…but Elijah was if he was to be carried away by the Spirit of the Lord. He was recognized as a man of God, by the widow that God sent him to live with during a famine (1 Kings 17:24). In this passage Obadiah was speaking to Elijah. He thought that Ahab would kill him—knowing that Ahab really wanted Elijah to die. Obadiah thinks that the Spirit of the Lord would carry Elijah away to who knows where? Anywhere. Just not anywhere that Ahab would find him. Getting carried away by The Spirit of the Lord—the Holy Spirit—is not a common occurrence. John, the Apostle, was “carried away” in the Spirit in two occurrences in the book of Revelation. See Revelation 17:3 and Revelation 21:10. These incidents represent visions that John experienced when the Holy Spirit was dictating the Book of Revelation to him. How can we apply this to our lives? That is pretty hard. We can’t exactly expect to be carried away in the Spirit. But we can expect to find the Lord…if we search for Him. But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. Deuteronomy 4:29 Where and how are you looking for the Lord?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I am looking for You. Please reveal Yourself to me—so that I may know You more fully and serve You more deeply.

'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Then you will call upon Me and come and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. You will seek Me and find Me when you search for Me with all your heart.’ Jeremiah 29:11-13

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

Saturday, February 7, 2015

Spiritual Forces

Now the Spirit of the LORD departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the LORD terrorized him. 1 Samuel 16:14

The Holy Spirit LEFT king Saul because he turned his back on God. When something leaves and there is empty space…beware. Something worse may fill that void. It appears that is what happened to Saul. An evil spirit came to terrorize him. Without God in his life there was no protection against the evil forces. We live in a physical and a spiritual realm. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the powers, against the world forces of this darkness, against the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly places. Ephesians 6:12. Like Saul, we fight a spiritual battle. Take care lest we get full of ourselves and turn our back on God. How do you stand with God today?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me, my family and friends to consistently put on our spiritual armor…so that we will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle we will still be standing firm. Help us to stand our ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness. For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that we will be fully prepared. In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil. Put on salvation as our helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. May we pray in the Spirit—in You—at all times and on every occasion. We’ll stay alert and be persistent in our prayers for all believers everywhere. Give us the right words so we can boldly explain God's mysterious plan that the Good News is for Jews and Gentiles alike. Ephesians 6:13-19 NLT.

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