Making Choices

The LORD gave this message to Micah of Moresheth during the years when Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah were kings of Judah. The visions he saw concerned both Samaria and Jerusalem….

This is what the LORD says: You false prophets are leading my people astray! You promise peace for those who give you food, but you declare war on those who refuse to feed you. Now the night will close around you, cutting off all your visions. Darkness will cover you, putting an end to your predictions. The sun will set for you prophets, and your day will come to an end. Then you seers will be put to shame, and you fortune-tellers will be disgraced. And you will cover your faces because there is no answer from God. But as for me, I am filled with power—with the Spirit of the LORD. I am filled with justice and strength to boldly declare Israel's sin and rebellion. Micah 1:1, 3:5-8 NLT 

Micah was anointed by the Holy Spirit to prophesy to the people of Israel concerning their coming judgment. This passage concerns the judgment of the false prophets— disgrace to those who led God’s people astray. Micah recognized that the power of the Holy Spirit was guiding him to show Israel her sin and rebellion. Those people of God had once again turned their backs on the God of the Universe—the Creator. But God is good, forgiving and has a great plan for the future. Through the prophet Micah, God revealed that His Son would be born in Bethlehem…and that in the coming Kingdom Israel will be protected by their Shepherd—the Lord. One of the most famous scripture passages in the Bible is found in Micah … Mankind, He has told you what is good and what it is the LORD requires of you: to act justly, to love faithfulness, and to walk humbly with your God.  Micah 6:8 HCSB. God blessed Micah with His words…and those are a blessing and guide to us. Know just what God expects of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. How do we do those things? Choices. We have to choose to graciously do what God wants us to do—the right things, in loving and merciful ways. Face it…we know the right things to do…we just need to make the right choices. 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—give us wisdom as we make choices minute by minute throughout this day…that we would please You.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Looking for the Holy Spirit

I’ve been searching for Holy Spirit in the prophets and the all through the Old Testament. Usually the Lord speaks through a prophet—gives a vision through the Holy Spirit. At the beginning of Nahum the Lord is proclaimed by His characteristics—jealous, avenging, wrathful, slow to anger, powerful, judgmental, just, good and to be trusted by those who are close to Him. There is no vision for Nahum, but there is a sure judgment for Nineveh’s population a generation after Jonah’s visit who had turned away from the Lord. They just didn’t know God like their forefathers did. So, how well do you the Lord? 

The LORD is good, a stronghold in a day of distress; He cares for those who take refuge in Him.  But He will completely destroy Nineveh with an overwhelming flood, and He will chase His enemies into darkness.  Whatever you plot against the LORD, He will bring it to complete destruction; oppression will not rise up a second time.  Nahum 1:7-9 HCSB 

Can you imagine someone “plotting against the Lord?” Know God. He cares about each of us who seek to know and trust Him. Let Nineveh be an example for us. With their wicked ways they turned backs on God and their judgment was inevitable. Fire will consume them…the sword will cut them down (Nahum 4:15).  

Can you “know” God? Of course you can. Know God—discover His qualities—embrace His love. Seek Him first in your life—in all you think, say and do.  

But in the past, when you didn't know God, you were enslaved to things that by nature are not gods. But now, since you know God, or rather have become known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and bankrupt elemental forces? Do you want to be enslaved to them all over again? Galatians 4:8-9 HCSB 

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

Prayer ~ Dear God…to know You is to love You. Guide my heart, thoughts, mind, attitudes and actions that unlike Nineveh I would be pleasing to You.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

No Sulking

The word of the LORD came to Jonah the son of Amittai saying, "Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and cry against it, for their wickedness has come up before Me." But Jonah rose up to flee to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. So he went down to Joppa, found a ship which was going to Tarshish, paid the fare and went down into it to go with them to Tarshish from the presence of the LORD. Jonah 1:1-3  

Now the word of the LORD came to Jonah the second time, saying, "Arise, go to Nineveh the great city and proclaim to it the proclamation which I am going to tell you." So Jonah arose and went to Nineveh according to the word of the LORD. Now Nineveh was an exceedingly great city, a three days' walk. Jonah 3:1-3 

 

The word of the Lord came to Jonah—was that via the Holy Spirit? Probably—but the first time Jonah didn’t want anything to do with those heathen Ninevehites and he ran the other way. Then God changed the way Jonah looked at things by having a big fish swallow him. Good thing that God has a sense of humor and had that fish spit Jonah out—he might have died in the fish’s stomach if he’d been there much longer. So the second time that the word of the Lord came to Jonah, he listened and was more obedient. He still had a bit of a stubborn streak. If you read the whole Jonah story, after the people of Nineveh repented he went outside the city and sulked in a little shelter that he built for himself. Who was he to be upset when the Ninevehites were spared from God’s wrath—or when his precious plant died? Life happens. No complaining or sulking. Do not complain, brethren, against one another, so that you yourselves may not be judged; behold, the Judge is standing right at the door. James 5:9  We should rejoice when one person, even one from Nineveh, repents—just like the angels do in heaven. In the same way, I tell you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner who repents. Luke 15:10. Like Jonah do you get upset over things that God asks you to do? You know, Jonah is not just a story…he was a real person. He is also listed in the historical record of the nation of Israel in Second Kings and mentioned by Jesus a couple of different times.

He (King Jeroboam, 794-753 BC) restored the border of Israel from the entrance of Hamath as far as the Sea of the Arabah, according to the word of the LORD, the God of Israel, which He spoke through His servant Jonah the son of Amittai, the prophet, who was of Gath-hepher. 2 Kings 14:25  

"An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign; and a sign will not be given it, except the sign of Jonah." And He left them and went away. Matthew 16:4  

Prayer ~  Lord, help me to be obedient the first time You ask me to do something.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Arrogant Attitude?

The vision of Obadiah. Thus says the Lord God concerning Edom. We have heard a report from the Lord, and an envoy has been sent among the nations saying, “Arise and let us go against her for battle. Behold, I will make you small among the nations, You are greatly despised. The arrogance of your heart has deceived you. You who live in the clefts of the rock, in the loftiness of your dwelling place, who say in your heart, ‘Who will bring me down to earth?’ Though you build high like the eagle, though you set your next among the stars, from there I will bring you down,” declares the Lord.  Obadiah 1:1-4 

In this vision the Lord gives Obadiah a message through the Holy Spirit that is not good for the Edomites—those descendants of Esau. They are arrogant people—thinking of themselves more highly than they should. Proverbs tells us…The fear of the Lord is to hate evil. Pride and arrogance and the evil way and perverted mouth, I hate. Proverbs 8:13. God hates evil…and arrogant attitudes. Obadiah is given the vision that God will destroy—wipe out—the Edomites. There is no question that that land that Edom occupies will be given, by this prophesy, to Israel. The arrogant people loose. How’s your attitude? Does God see any arrogance in your heart?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, search me and know my heart. If there be any arrogance in me, show me, and wipe that away from my thoughts, words and actions. I want to be pleasing to You.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Their Choices Made the Land Desolate

Then the word of the LORD came to Zechariah saying, "Thus has the LORD of hosts said, 'Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother; and do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the stranger or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.' But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the LORD of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts. And just as He called and they would not listen, so they called and I would not listen," says the LORD of hosts; "but I scattered them with a storm wind among all the nations whom they have not known. Thus the land is desolated behind them so that no one went back and forth, for they made the pleasant land desolate." Zechariah 7:8-14 

Stubborn hearts—rejecting the wise and kind words of guidance that the Holy Spirit was giving the Israelites. Just ike any loving father teaching his children: be kind—play nice. But the stubborn little brats said, “No! I want to do it my way.” Hadn’t they heard of the Golden Rule? Hardening their hearts towards the Lord was not a wise thing. How often do we do that? Sometimes just a little stiffness. I want to do my own thing…my own way. Just like a two year old. Step back. Deep breath. Focus on the Lord. What do you hear Him saying to you? Justice, kindness, compassion? How will you respond? Like the Israelites—who refused to listen. Or are your choices turning your heart towards God? If we don’t choose God’s ways will our land become desolate?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please bless and guide us that we would make good decisions that would result in justice, kindness and compassion for those around us. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

In keeping with the fish on Friday during Lent, I’ve chosen a seafood soup to share today. Spring is here and there aren’t many “soup” days left now until fall. Enjoy this with family or friends, a tossed salad and some good conversation.

Thai Fish Soup – serves 4

1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
¼ red onion, very finely chopped or sliced
1/2 red chili pepper, sliced (optional)
1 stalk lemongrass, bottom stalk only, bruised (substitute with peel of lemon or lime)
4 kaffir lime leaves, torn (substitute with peel of lemon or lime)
14-ounce can coconut milk
1 cup vegetable broth
Juice of ½ lime
1 tablespoon fish sauce
6 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 ounces salmon, cut into 1-inch chunks
Assorted vegetables, such as bok choy, spinach, snow peas, kale, chopped tomatoes, bell pepper, etc.
1 tablespoon minced cilantro

½ pound rice noodles – optional if you want to make it a meal. 

In a soup pot over medium high heat, heat cooking oil and swirl to coat. When hot, add the garlic, ginger, red onion, and chili pepper. Pour in the coconut milk and broth and let simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the lemongrass, kaffir (or the lemon/lime peel if using) and discard. Season broth with fish sauce and lime juice to taste. If desired, add rice noodles and cook for a few minutes. Next add shrimp, salmon, vegetables of your choice and cilantro. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp and salmon are cooked through.                                              

Adapted from the Medicinal Chef: Eat Your Way to Better Health by Dale Pinnock

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Vision of Horses Before the Lord

Then I looked up again and saw four chariots coming from between two mountains. And the mountains were made of bronze. The first chariot had red horses, the second chariot black horses, the third chariot white horses, and the fourth chariot dappled horses -- all strong horses. So I inquired of the angel who was speaking with me, "What are these, my lord?"  The angel told me, "These are the four spirits of heaven going out after presenting themselves to the Lord of the whole earth. The one with the black horses is going to the land of the north, the white horses are going after them, but the dappled horses are going to the land of the south." As the strong horses went out, they wanted to go patrol the earth, and the LORD said, "Go, patrol the earth." So they patrolled the earth. Then He summoned me saying, "See, those going to the land of the north have pacified My Spirit in the northern land." Zechariah 6:1-8 HCSB 

Horses in the future of Jerusalem. That is what Zechariah was prophesying from the Lord. Not regular horses, but special horses with chariots. These represented the four spirits of heaven ( verse 5) and God is pronouncing His judgment on the nations of the world. The phrase about the horses going to the north bringing rest or peace to “My Spirit” would indicate that there would be some changes or peace to that region—and that may have just been the fall of Babylon…or it could indicate a future change—destruction—of a great city, named as Babylon in the Book of Revelation. Then a mighty angel picked up a stone like a large millstone and threw it into the sea, saying: In this way, Babylon the great city will be thrown down violently and never be found again. Revelation 18:21 HCSB. No one wants to be on the side that gets destroyed…but everyone makes a choice. To live in obedience to God, or not. Will people in this city have a choice? Some people may feel that they don’t have a choice…that is just life. That’s the way things are—sinfulness all around them, so they are part of it. But we do have a choice. Within our hearts we can choose who we’ll serve—how our lives will be. Choose the dark or white horse and ride into the north to pacify the Holy Spirit. The dark horses represent the melancholy of war while the white horses represent joy and a return of peace, according to the Bible commentaries of Matthew Henry. The white horse almost always represents the Good Guy! Then I saw heaven opened, and there was a white horse. Its rider is called Faithful and True, and He judges and makes war in righteousness. Revelation 19:11 HCSB. Do you choose to ride in that white horse drawn chariot and go forth with the joy of the Lord? 

Prayer ~ Now may the God of hope fill us with all joy and peace in believing, so that we will abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit—Your awesome power, God. Romans 15:13. NASB

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

By My Spirit—The Holy Spirit

Then he (an angel) said to me (Zechariah, a priest), "This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel saying, 'Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,' says the LORD of hosts.” Zechariah 4:6 

Things happen just by the word of the Lord or the Spirit—the Holy Spirit. He guides directs, comforts, teaches, corrects and encourages. Additionally, the sword of the Spirit is the Word if God.

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. Therefore, take up the full armor of God, so that you will be able to resist in the evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm. Stand firm therefore, having girded your loins with truth, and having put on the breastplate of righteousness, and having shod your feet with the preparation of the gospel of peace; in addition to all, taking up the shield of faith with which you will be able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. With all prayer and petition pray at all times in the Spirit, and with this in view, be on the alert with all perseverance and petition for all the saints…. Ephesians 6:12-18. 

In this passage in Zechariah, the Lord was speaking to Zerubbabel, the governor. The Temple was being rebuilt by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Lord was explaining that it was the Holy Spirit that was rebuilding the Temple…and the lives of the Hebrew people. Power and might of the nation couldn’t rebuild the Temple unless the Lord was in it. Zerubbabel was witnessing God’s power as the Temple was reconstructed.

Do you see the power of God working in your life? Are you putting on your spiritual armor so that you will be able to resist when evil presents itself?  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I pray that You will help me to recall, recite, and live out my life standing firm with the spiritual armor covering me. The Word of God is precious to me. I want to always be alert and persevere as I grow in knowledge and understanding of Your word and Your ways…and pray for my sisters and brothers in Christ. Be a blessing today to those who seek and serve You, Lord God.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Do Not Fear – The Spirit is Living with You

'But now take courage, Zerubbabel,' declares the LORD, 'take courage also, Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and all you people of the land take courage,' declares the LORD, 'and work; for I am with you,' declares the LORD of hosts. 'As for the promise which I made you when you came out of Egypt, My Spirit is abiding in your midst; do not fear!' For thus says the LORD of hosts, 'Once more in a little while, I am going to shake the heavens and the earth, the sea also and the dry land.' Haggai 2:4-6  

Everyone! All the people of the land needed to take courage…and work. Not the time to sit back and relax. It was the time to dig in and work. They were rebuilding the Temple after the Babylonian Exile.

 

What a promise—The Holy Spirit is living with you. The Holy Spirit would be guiding not just one man—but living in many people at once. He would be helping them all—just like He dwells in so many people at one time today. Do not fear! Another great and powerful promise. No fear. Even when the earth and heaven shake, no one needs to be afraid. God is protecting His people—even as He shakes things up. Earthquakes—even just little tremors—can be very scary. But don’t be afraid. God has a plan—and His Holy Spirit is with us. Can you claim those promises?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give us calmness during coming earthquakes or calamities. Surround us with Your love and strength as we put our trust in You. You are in us and with us…and we don’t need to be afraid. No fear! Our hope is in You.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Impatient?

Is it being said, O house of Jacob: 'Is the Spirit of the LORD impatient? Are these His doings?' Do not My words do good To the one walking uprightly? Micah 2:7 

You don’t usually associate the word “impatient” with the Holy Spirit. Impatience is not a virtue for those “walking uprightly.” It is totally frowned upon in Christian circles and especially among parents who are trying to raise their children to be Christ-like. It is a challenge for anyone not to experience some impatience at one time or another during their lifetime. Life stresses—especially when raising children, commuting, or waiting in line at the grocery store—can bring on feelings of impatience. Here Micah, filled with the Holy Spirit, prophesied the Lord’s judgment to the common folks of Judah. The virtue of patience is a part of the fruit of the Spirit. 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.  

Everyone’s life is moving toward or away from a purpose. Is your purpose hampered by impatience? 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please fill us with Your love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Promise: I Will Be Your God

Then I had concern for My holy name, which the house of Israel profaned among the nations where they went.  "Therefore, say to the house of Israel: This is what the Lord GOD says: It is not for your sake that I will act, house of Israel, but for My holy name, which you profaned among the nations where you went. I will honor the holiness of My great name, which has been profaned among the nations—the name you have profaned among them. The nations will know that I am Yahweh"—the declaration of the Lord GOD—"when I demonstrate My holiness through you in their sight.  "For I will take you from the nations and gather you from all the countries, and will bring you into your own land. I will also sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. I will cleanse you from all your impurities and all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. I will place My Spirit within you and cause you to follow My statutes and carefully observe My ordinances. Then you will live in the land that I gave your fathers; you will be My people, and I will be your God. Ezekiel 36:21-28 HCSB

God is holy—pure. Scripture tells us over and over that God is holy, pure, and perfect.

·         There is no one holy like the LORD.  There is no one besides You! And there is no rock like our God. 1 Samuel 2:2 HCSB

·         God -- His way is perfect; the word of the LORD is pure. He is a shield to all who take refuge in Him. 2 Samuel 22:31 HCSB

·         Exalt the LORD our God and worship at His footstool; Holy is He. Psalm 99:5

·         The LORD is gracious and righteous; our God is compassionate. Psalm 116:5 HCSB

·         And the four living creatures, each one of them having six wings, are full of eyes around and within; and day and night they do not cease to say, "HOLY, HOLY, HOLY is THE LORD GOD, THE ALMIGHTY, WHO WAS AND WHO IS AND WHO IS TO COME." Revelation 4:8

To see God face to face people must be pure and holy. That begins when we believe in Jesus as His Son…and in believing our sins are forgiven, making us pure and holy. The pure in heart are blessed, for they will see God.  Matthew 5:8 HCSB. The Father God placed the Holy Spirit within us—causing us to desire to follow His commandments. His promise is to the Israelites—they will live in the land that He gave to Abraham. Likewise, we are His people—called to be pure, holy and blessed. But as the One who called you is holy, you also are to be holy in all your conduct; for it is written, Be holy, because I am holy.  1 Peter 1:15-16 HCSB  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, fill us with Your wisdom and love that we would not only see God—Father, Son and Spirit—as pure and holy—but that we would focus on following You with righteous decisions, moment by moment.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

God Call You in Righteousness

Thus says God the LORD, Who created the heavens and stretched them out, Who spread out the earth and its offspring, Who gives breath to the people on it and spirit to those who walk in it, "I am the LORD, I have called You in righteousness, I will also hold You by the hand and watch over You, and I will appoint You as a covenant to the people, as a light to the nations, to open blind eyes, to bring out prisoners from the dungeon and those who dwell in darkness from the prison.”  Isaiah 42:5-7 

 

A family friend ask me to post about the four blood moons since I’d read and we’d been discussing the book by John Hagee, Four Blood Moons. That was yesterday’s post since there will be a solar eclipse today. The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and their expanse is declaring the work of His hands. Psalm 19:1. Very interesting that these solar and lunar eclipses happen on Jewish holidays. Not just a coincidence. There are no coincidences with God. He has a plan. The Jews are still His chosen people. Additionally, He has breathed His Spirit into His righteous ones. So is God sending a message with these Blood Moons on Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles this year? We’ll have to wait and see. What difference will it make to you personally? For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:44. Are you ready?     

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, provide me with Your wisdom that I would know and understand the prophesies and the fulfillment of those prophesies. Hold my hand and watch over me, my family, friends, and neighbors—as You have promised—for You are my God—awesome and eternal. 

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Looking for a quick, tasty fish meal—once that is high in anti-inflammatories? Brazil nuts and tilapia are both good sources of selenium that fights off arthritis symptoms. Good for this time of the year with all the weather and pressure changes.

Brazil Nut-Crusted Tilapia with Sautéed Kale

¼ cup roasted Brazil nuts

½ cup fresh bread crumbs

2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

¼ cup whole grain mustard

1 pound tilapia fillets

cooking spray

1 tablespoon sesame oil

1 clove garlic, mashed

1 head kale, chopped

¼ teaspoon kosher salt

Pepper, to taste

2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

1.      Preheat oven to 400°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet and set aside.

2.      Place Brazil nuts in a food processor and pulse until finely ground. Transfer to a small bowl and stir in breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

3.      Place tilapia fillets on baking sheet and spread evenly with mustard. Divide Brazil nut-breadcrumb mixture evenly over tilapia, reserving about a tablespoon for garnish and lightly spray with cooking spray. Bake 8 to 10 minutes, or until tilapia is just cooked through.

4.      Meanwhile, heat a large cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium-high heat. Add sesame oil and heat 15 seconds before adding garlic. Cook 20 seconds and then add chopped kale. Cook, stirring frequently, 7 to 8 minutes or until kale is tender.

5.      Serve fish immediately with a side of kale--for four people. Sprinkle with reserved Brazil nut mixture, sesame seeds, salt and pepper. Enjoy! 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Have You Heard of a Blood Moon?

The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the great and awe-inspiring Day of the LORD comes.  Joel 2:31 HCSB

Joel was filled with the Holy Spirit prophesying about the “Day of the Lord.” A day that is prophesied by many prophets in the Old Testament and referred to in the New Testament. For you yourselves know very well that the Day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:2 HCSB. We don’t know the hour or the day…only God the Father knows. Now learn this parable from the fig tree: As soon as its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things, recognize that He is near—at  the door! I assure you: This generation will certainly not pass away until all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away. Now concerning that day and hour no one knows—neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son—except  the Father only. ... This is why you also must be ready, because the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.  Matthew 24:32-36, 44 HCSB. 

The blood moon has been not only prophesied, but has occurred several times in the last 500 years. It is significant that Blood Moons occurred on Jewish Holidays such as the series of Blood Moons beginning in 1493 at the time of the Spanish Edict of Expulsion of the Jews. In 1949 and 1950 at Passover and the Feast of Tabernacles after the Jews were restored to the Land of Israel, four Blood Moons took place. Another noteworthy Tetrad of Blood Moons occurred during the Jewish Holidays in 1967 and 1968 at the time of the great war that Israel fought then.  Now two Blood Moons occurred in 2014 and two will happen soon in 2015, with a Solar Eclipse to take place tomorrow. The Solar Eclipse will be easy to view in Europe, but not the United States. The Blood Moons occur at night, obviously, since there must be a total lunar eclipse to see that moon is red. The next one is on Passover, April 4, 2015. I viewed the Blood Moon on October 8, 2014, using just a pair of binoculars in my backyard. It was clearly red. I again plan to watch this lunar event…and also to see what is happening in the land of Israel during that time. Will you be ready…and watch? 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, for each person that hears about the Day of the Lord may You spark within their heart a desire to learn more about Jesus, about God the Father, and about You. Then inspire each of them to be ready…to share what God is doing in their lives—that they would draw others to know Jesus as their Savior. Heaven’s angels sing for joy over another soul that will one day be heaven bound.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

 

Let The One Who Listens, Listen

Then the hand of the LORD was on me there, and He said to me, "Get up, go out to the plain, and I will speak with you there." So I got up and went out to the plain. The LORD's glory was present there, like the glory I had seen by the Chebar Canal, and I fell facedown. The Spirit entered me and set me on my feet. He spoke with me and said: "Go, shut yourself inside your house. And you, son of man, they will put ropes on you and bind you with them so you cannot go out among them. I will make your tongue stick to the roof of your mouth, and you will be mute and unable to rebuke them, for they are a rebellious house. But when I speak with you, I will open your mouth, and you will say to them, 'This is what the Lord GOD says.' Let the one who listens, listen, and let the one who refuses, refuse—for they are a rebellious house.  Ezekiel 3:22-27 HCSB 

Oh, that rebellious household. Those Israelite children just were just a disobedient, stubborn bunch. Unwilling to listen, so God sends Ezekiel—filled with the Holy Spirit—with a message. The Holy Spirit set Ezekiel on his feet and then promised to give him the words to say. Let the one who listens, listen and let the one who refuses, refuse…. If you were there—taken into captivity in Babylon—would you still be rebellious, or would you listen to God’s message? The message that followed was not a fluffy prophesy.  Their sins had brought God judgment on the Israelites. The visions that Ezekiel was given were meant to teach those Israelites that they needed to change their ways. Is that good for us today? Let the one who listens, listen and let the one who refuses, refuse.  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I’m listening to You…speak to me. Open my mouth and give me the words to say—that I may glorify and worship You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

The Children are Obstinate and Hardhearted

He said to me, "Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak with you." As He spoke to me, the Spirit entered me and set me on my feet, and I listened to the One who was speaking to me. He said to me: "Son of man, I am sending you to the Israelites, to the rebellious pagans who have rebelled against Me. The Israelites and their ancestors have transgressed against Me to this day. The children are obstinate and hardhearted. I am sending you to them, and you must say to them, 'This is what the Lord GOD says.' Ezekiel 2:1-4 HCSB 

Uh-Oh. The children—those descendants of Abraham—are obstinate and hardhearted. Can’t they ever get it together and do things God’s way? Whoa! Can you describe yourself, your children or grandchildren as that—obstinate and hardhearted? Maybe we need someone like Ezekiel to come speak to us. Has the Lord sent someone to tell you that you have transgressed—sinned or disobeyed—against Him? The Lord had the Holy Spirit enter Ezekiel again so that he could speak to the Israelites and let them know that their rebellion offended the Lord. Someone had to set them straight. Do we need that? Americans are becoming a nation of non-church goers. We haven’t given up on the Lord God, we just aren’t practicing public religion as much as we once did. When was the last time you went to church…studied your Bible…or prayed? What are you going to do about it? Easter is coming up on April 5^th. Will you be going to church then? Are Easter and Christmas about the only times you go to church? May I challenge you to find fellowship with a few other Christian believers at a time other than Sunday morning? Let us hold tightly without wavering to the hope we affirm, for God can be trusted to keep his promise. Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of His return is drawing near. Hebrews 10:23-25 NLT. Encourage others and meet together…meet and eat. Discuss life. Don’t be obstinate and hardhearted. Lighten up and share your life and how God is working in your life. Hmmm. Preaching to myself here.  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, just as You wrote…We urge you, brethren, admonish the unruly, encourage the fainthearted, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 1 Thessalonians 5:14. Help me to encourage others through fellowship and friendship.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Visions of a Teenager

In the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, on the fifth day of the month, while I (Ezekiel) was among the exiles by the Chebar Canal, the heavens opened and I saw visions of God. ... the word of the LORD came directly to Ezekiel the priest, the son of Buzi, in the land of the Chaldeans by the Chebar Canal. And the LORD's hand was on him there.  ... Each creature went straight ahead. Wherever the Spirit wanted to go, they went without turning as they moved.  Ezekiel 1:1, 3, 12 HCSB

So this was the beginning of Ezekiel’s visions that are recorded in the book of Ezekiel. Some are almost as bewildering as what John has recorded in the Book of Revelation.  In the thirtieth year…this could indicate that this was the thirteenth year of Nebuchadnezzar’s father’s reign as king or it could be that Ezekiel was only about 13 years old. Imagine how this young teenager must have felt, seeing a vision like the flashing cloud with a vehicle that had heads like living creatures (see Ezekiel 1:1-28). Nowadays teenagers might be fascinated by such a scene—since they’ve watch alien adventures on TV…but Ezekiel didn’t have that advantage. It tells us at the end of the chapter that he fell on his face—in fear I suppose. The Holy Spirit—in the hand of the Lord came upon him—filled Ezekiel with this vision and the words to write in this book. Obedient. That is the best way to describe Ezekiel. He is God’s prophet—and does what God requests and reports to the Jews in Babylon what the Lord has shown him.  

So what is God showing you? As you read His Word what is the Holy Spirit speaking to you? Are you obedient to what you read? The creature went wherever the Spirit wanted it to go. Are you going where the Spirit wants you to go?  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide me, as You guided Ezekiel and help me to be obedient.

 I shall follow the LORD my God and fear Him; and I shall keep His commandments, listen to His voice, serve Him, and cling to Him. Deuteronomy 13:4

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Words That Last Forever

"As for Me, this is My covenant with them," says the LORD: "My Spirit who is on you, and My words that I have put in your mouth, will not depart from your mouth, or from the mouth of your children, or from the mouth of your children's children, from now on and forever," says the LORD. Isaiah 59:21 HCSB

What a powerful statement, a promise—God’s words, His Holy Spirit and His covenant with His chosen people will not go away. Can we claim that promise along with the Israelites? We are “brother” of Christ—adopted by God. So I think that we can claim this promise also. Certainly the Holy Spirit is in all those who believe in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, as their person Savior and Redeemer. So we can count on being blessed to speak God’s words forever…His words will not depart from your mouth. That is a promise that is both comforting and overwhelming. We often ask for boldness to speak God’s words to others…and here is a promise hidden away in Isaiah that God’s words will not depart from our mouths. That means we’ll always have His words to speak. Hurrah! Do you have an opportunity to speak God’s words today? There might be one…keep alert…be ready. …Honor the Messiah as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you. 1 Peter 3:15 HCSB. Be ready to give a defense—to speak up and not be ashamed of the Gospel. God has given you a hope for your future with Him. Tell others what God has done for you. The little things, as well as the big things. Don’t you want to be sure that as many other people as possible are headed to heaven, too? 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give me not only the opportunity to speak up for You, the words to speak, the proper timing, but also the sensitivity to express just the appropriate words at precisely the right time. Speak through me, for it is not me...but You. It is all about You, God.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, KIM! BLESSINGS AND LOVE.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Water for the Thirsty

For I will pour water on the thirsty land and streams on the dry ground; I will pour out My Spirit on your descendants and My blessing on your offspring.  Isaiah 44:3 HCSB

When was the last time you were really thirsty? I recently hiked the new trail on Badger Mountain near my home—it was a six mile up and back down. Nice day for a hike, sunny with a light breeze. An amazing 70 degrees. I took water along and drank some periodically, but when I got home, I was really thirsty and guzzled down another glass of water before I took a shower. Water is the best thirst quencher. The Holy Spirit is a thirst quencher, too. He provides refreshing teachings, guidance, remembrance and understanding of God’s Word for which we are all thirsting. Just ask…and He will provide you with the best words you can imagine. Just as Jesus taught the Samaritan woman at the well…"Everyone who drinks from this water will get thirsty again. But whoever drinks from the water that I will give him will never get thirsty again—ever! In fact, the water I will give him will become a well of water springing up within him for eternal life."  John 4:13-14 HCSB. Water that provides eternal life. For what more could we ask? 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please be poured out on not only me, but on my family, friends and neighbors, as well. May we be filled to overflowing and declare Your blessing to everyone we meet.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Seek, Study and Be Gathered Together

Seek from the book of the LORD, and read: not one of these will be missing; none will lack its mate. for His mouth has commanded, and His Spirit has gathered them. Isaiah 34:16

Book of the LORD—that is His judgments given through Isaiah. This is concerning the time of Tribulation. We are told to read it, to actually seek it out. To me that means study it—study God’s Word to understand His ways…and to be warned of the coming Tribulation. So when you see the abomination that causes desolation, spoken of by the prophet Daniel, standing in the holy place" (let the reader understand), ... For at that time there will be great tribulation, the kind that hasn't taken place from the beginning of the world until now and never will again! Unless those days were limited, no one would survive. But those days will be limited because of the elect.  Matthew 24:15, 21-22 HCSB. Will this happen in our lifetime? Only God knows. We can just be obedient day by day, moment by moment. Just like the animals were gathered for Adam to name and for Noah to load on the ark, people will be gathered by the Holy Spirit. Do you feel God tugging at your heart and drawing you close to Him to understand His Word and His Ways?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, inspire each of us to not only seek God’s Word daily…but to understand what we read and study. Draw us closer and closer to You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

What is a meat, especially fish, without at least some butter or a sauce? Sauces make the meal. Here’s a variation of a French sauce, Remoulade, that is used mainly with fish in many European countries and the United States. Sometimes it has curry added…and in some southern states it may have more of a red hue since paprika is added. Serve this up with crab cakes, shrimp, fish, or even French fries, asparagus or fried green tomatoes.
 
Remoulade
¼ cup fresh squeezed lemon juice
½ cup mayonnaise
½ cup celery, finely chopped
½ cup green onion, finely chopped
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
4 Tbsp prepared horseradish
2 Tbsp sweet chili sauce
2 Tbsp Dijon mustard

2 tsp capers, chopped (optional)

2 Tbsp paprika (optional)

1 hard boiled egg, finely chopped (optional)

2 Tbsp catsup (optional)

2 Tbsp curry powder, sautéed in 1 Tbsp oil (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste (about ½ tsp salt and 1/8 tsp pepper) 

Mix all the ingredients, adding optional ingredients as desired. Chill and serve cold. May be stored, covered, for several days.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Places Forsaken Until the Holy Spirit is Poured Out on Us

For the palace will be forsaken, the busy city abandoned. The hill and the watchtower will become barren places forever, the joy of wild donkeys, and a pasture for flocks, until the Spirit from heaven is poured out on us. Then the desert will become an orchard, and the orchard will seem like a forest.  Then justice will inhabit the wilderness, and righteousness will dwell in the orchard.  The result of righteousness will be peace; the effect of righteousness will be quiet confidence forever.  Isaiah 32:14-17 HCSB 

Isaiah was prophesying about the time of the Messiah’s return and reign. Places will be forsaken, desolate and lifeless until the Spirit is loosed on the earth. When the Holy Spirit is poured out…life will be wonderful in a cherished garden and forest—with justice and righteousness. Peace and quiet confidence that we all seek in our lives will be ours forever. Eternally. Can we hope for that life someday…or now? The Holy Spirit is within us…if we believe in Jesus as the Son of God…as our Savior. We can have that peace and quiet confidence…NOW. It is there, we just have to look within ourselves to see it. But from there, you will search for the LORD your God (the Holy Spirit), and you will find Him when you seek Him with all your heart and all your soul. Deuteronomy 4:29 HCSB.  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I seek You with all of my heart and soul. Here You are…within my heart and soul. My heart is not desolate—You fill me with joy and peace. Guide me in all that I do, think and say.

Happy 1 month Birthday to Sweet Baby Julia.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

What Pit Are You In?

Daniel distinguished himself above the administrators and satraps because he had an extraordinary spirit, so the king planned to set him over the whole realm. Daniel 6:3 HCSB 

Just like Joseph distinguished himself by interpreting Pharaoh’s dreams, Daniel proved himself to be extraordinary in his honesty, interpretation, knowledge and in his devotion to His God. Daniel was filled again and again with the Holy Spirit. The plot thickened and Daniel was sent to the lions’ den—but that wasn’t the end of the story. God was with Daniel there in that lions’ den…just like He had been with Joseph in jail. He is with each of us no matter what pit we find ourselves in. Pit of pain, loneliness, regrets or whatever…. He is there with us. He promised. He keeps His promises. Be satisfied with what you have, for He Himself has said, I will never leave you or forsake you. Hebrews 13:5 HCSB  

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, Help me to be satisfied with what You have provided…for You are my shepherd, providing all I need. I claim Your promise that You will never leave me or forsake me. What comfort that gives me, my family, friends and neighbors in all that we do…and it whatever lies ahead of each of us.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Who Has God’s Spirit?

Then Pharaoh said to his servants, "Can we find anyone like this, a man who has God's spirit in him?" So Pharaoh said to Joseph, "Since God has made all this known to you, there is no one as intelligent and wise as you are. You will be over my house, and all my people will obey your commands. Only with regard to the throne will I be greater than you." Pharaoh also said to Joseph, "See, I am placing you over all the land of Egypt." Genesis 41:38-41 HCSB 

After Joseph interpreted the dreams of other jail prisoners and then of Pharaoh he was highly regarded by everyone in Egypt. Especially by Pharaoh who made Joseph second in command in all the country. Pharaoh recognized that Joseph was filled with God’s spirit…with the Holy Spirit. That infilling gave Joseph wisdom and knowledge above all others. God had a plan in sending Joseph to Egypt. He was sold—like a slave by his brothers, but God had a plan. A famine in the land of Palestine and in Egypt was real and Joseph had the plan—inspired by God the Holy Spirit—to feed the people during those years of draught. Those that came for food included his own family—his brothers that sold him into slavery. God had a plan.

God has a plan for you. It may not include a trip to Egypt—but a famine can be of something besides lack of food. Don’t let the famine be one that keeps you from God’s Word—from feeding at His Table. Look to God for solutions to your problems. Just remember God’s promise to Jeremiah…For I know the plans I have for you"  -- this is the LORD's declaration -- plans for your welfare, not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 HCSB. 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please give me, my family, friends, and neighbors inspiration, wisdom and knowledge that we would live lives holy and pleasing to You. Continue to reveal Your plan for each of us and guide us, helping us to make good decisions.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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