Don’t Forget What You’ve Been Taught

Those who obey God's commandments remain in fellowship with Him, and He with them. And we know He lives in us because the Spirit He gave us lives in us. 1 John 3:24 NLT

 

Obedience is the key. Jesus is our ultimate example of an obedient person—the obedient Son.  When I was recently reading in Proverbs I was reminded of these scripture on commandments…and obedience.

·   My son, do not forget my teaching, But let your heart keep my commandments….Proverbs 3:1

·   Then he taught me and said to me, "Let your heart hold fast my words; Keep my commandments and live….” Proverbs 4:4

·   My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. Proverbs 7:1

Obey God’s commandments.

Then the LORD your God will prosper you abundantly in all the work of your hand, in the offspring of your body and in the offspring of your cattle and in the produce of your ground, for the LORD will again rejoice over you for good, just as He rejoiced over your fathers; if you obey the LORD your God to keep His commandments and His statutes which are written in this book of the law, if you turn to the LORD your God with all your heart and soul. Deuteronomy 30:9-10

 

These commandments that we are to obey are of course The Ten Commandments. Here’s the short list from Exodus 20.

1.      You shall have no other gods before Me.

2.      You shall not make idols.

3.      You shall not take the name of the LORD your God in vain.

4.      Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy.

5.      Honor your father and your mother.

6.      You shall not murder.

7.      You shall not commit adultery.

8.      You shall not steal.

9.      You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.

10.  You shall not covet.

Do these and live—live in the Holy Spirit. Live…Love…in Obedience. Each of these can be taken literally…and with more depth, spiritually. Can you search your heart to apply them obediently?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—fill us anew today with Your love and a desire to be obedient—to honor the Lord our God by following His Commandments.

 

© 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

Is There any Encouragement from Belonging to Christ?

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from His love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Philippians 2:1-2 NLT.

 

Are you encouraged by being with other Christians? Do you enjoy fellowshipping with them? Are you encouraging to others as you spend time with them? Just as Paul wrote to the church at Philippi, it makes me happy when I see my Christian brothers and sisters loving each other and working together, thinking alike. It just warms my heart on Sunday morning...and other times...to see people hugging on each other and asking about each other’s’ family and how their week has gone. Joy. Love. Love is an action—doing, caring, supporting and encouraging others. Is your heart tender and compassionate? Do you show your love for others—your empathy—your compassion? Are you encouraging others?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, You show us how to live…how to love…how to encourage. Please continue to give us hope as we share God’s love with others.

 

© 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 the Love of the Spirit

Now I urge you, brethren, by our Lord Jesus Christ and by the love of the Spirit, to strive together with me in your prayers to God for me, that I may be rescued from those who are disobedient in Judea, and that my service for Jerusalem may prove acceptable to the saints; so that I may come to you in joy by the will of God and find refreshing rest in your company. Romans 15:30-32

 

Refreshing rest in your company. Spending time with Christian friends—soulmates in the Lord—is truly revitalizing and energizing. I personally deeply enjoy—almost covet—that time that I can spend with those special friends—whether we work on a project, walk, exercise, worship, pray, study, eat together, play games or just visit.  Paul talks about finding joy and rest—coming to see his Christian brothers in God’s will. Do you arrange your schedule—your time—so that you get to spend time with Christian friends? Or at least some time praying for them? Prayer is a powerful force—it changes hearts and lives. It is exhilarating to see the Lord working in the life of a family member, a friend, or neighbor—or yourself. What has God done in your life…recently, this week, or today? Don’t live by what God did for you ten years ago. Identify what He is doing right now. He miraculously healed and gave a quick recovery in the past three months to a neighbor who had a stroke. I prayed. God was on a tall ladder with me just a couple of days ago painting the eaves of a friend’s house—no fear--well not much fear. He helped me hold my tongue when I was upset with someone yesterday. That was a big thing! God is good. How do you see God working in your life?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—by Your love may my Christian friends find refreshing rest and the joy of the Lord as they fellowship with You and with each other. Show us ways that You are working in our lives to touch others and draw them into a relationship with Jesus.

 

© 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

Message of Joy

For when we brought you the Good News, it was not only with words but also with power, for the Holy Spirit gave you full assurance that what we said was true. And you know of our concern for you from the way we lived when we were with you. So you received the message with joy from the Holy Spirit in spite of the severe suffering it brought you. In this way, you imitated both us and the Lord. 1 Thes-salonians 1:5-6 NLT

 

There is power in the name of Jesus…in the Holy Spirit…in the message of the Gospel. Power. God is powerful. According to Paul the church at Thessalonica received the message of the Gospel, the Good News of Jesus sacrifice and resurrection, with joy even though that message brought suffering to them. The Christians in Thessalonica were imitating Jesus and the apostles. Power…joy…suffering. Hang onto that message of joy. Joy from the Holy Spirit.

 

Paul wrote about affliction to the church in Corinth. Great is my confidence in you; great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort; I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction. For even when we came into Macedonia our flesh had no rest, but we were afflicted on every side: conflicts without, fears within. 2 Corinthians 7:4-5. Let God’s joy fill and permeate your very soul. Will there be affliction or suffering in your joy?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, …for the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in You..in the Holy Spirit. (from Romans 14:17 NLT) Give us joy in our hearts today.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

It is still zucchini time and there are so many fun ways to cook it. I love it roasted on the BBQ or in the oven; stir-fried with onions, other summer squash and carrots; or in tea breads or muffins. I recently made these zucchini muffins with my grandchildren. It can also can be made into bread. Amazing how kids will eat most anything that they cook or bake themselves. Makes kitchen time fun, memorable times.

 

Zucchini Muffins or Bread

1 cup vegetable oil

1¾ sugar

3 eggs

2 tsp vanilla extract

2 cups shredded zucchini

1 cup (8 oz can) crushed pineapple, drained

3 cups flour

½ tsp baking powder

2 tsp baking soda

1 tsp sea salt

¾ tsp ground nutmeg

1½ tsp ground cinnamon

1 cup chopped nuts, optional

1 cup shredded sweetened coconut, optional

 

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare muffin tins for 24 muffins by greasing the tins well or lining with paper cups. This can also be baked as two 9 x 5 inch loaves—so grease loaf pans.

 

Combine oil, sugar, eggs and vanilla extract and mix at medium speed for 2 minutes. Add zucchini and pineapple, mix well. Add flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt and spices on low speed until just combined.  Fold in the nuts and coconut, if desired. Fill the muffin tins ¾ full, or divide the batter between the loaf pans. Bake muffins for 20-25 minutes, or until the center springs back when touched lightly in the center. Bake loaves for about 1 hour. Let cool – 5 minutes for muffins or 15 minutes for loaves—before removing from the pans. Serve warm.

 

© 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

Please the Lord--Walk in the Light

Don't be fooled by those who try to excuse these sins, for the anger of God will fall on all who disobey Him. Don't participate in the things these people do. For once you were full of darkness, but now you have light from the Lord. So live as people of light! For this light within you produces only what is good and right and true. Carefully determine what pleases the Lord. Ephesians 5:6-10 NLT

 

Walk in the Light—Live as people of the light. Live what is good, right and true. In the verses prior to this passage above the “these sins” and Paul admonished the church at Ephesus.  Let there be no sexual immorality, impurity, or greed among you. Such sins have no place among God's people. Obscene stories, foolish talk, and coarse jokes—these are not for you. Instead, let there be thankfulness to God. You can be sure that no immoral, impure, or greedy person will inherit the Kingdom of Christ and of God. For a greedy person is an idolater, worshiping the things of this world. Ephesians 5:3-5 NLT.

 

As Paul wrote to the Romans… The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living. Romans 13:12 NLT. Live right. God wants us to follow His commandments, as noted in Psalms… Joyful are those who obey His laws and search for Him with all their hearts. They do not compromise with evil, and they walk only in His paths. You have charged us to keep your commandments carefully. Psalm 119:2-4 NLT. Your laws are always right; help me to understand them so I may live. Psalm 119:144 NLT.  In addition, Solomon wrote in the book of Proverbs… Their(the Proverbs) purpose is to teach people to live disciplined and successful lives, to help them do what is right, just, and fair. These proverbs will give insight to the simple, knowledge and discernment to the young. Let the wise listen to these proverbs and become even wiser. Let those with understanding receive guidance by exploring the meaning in these proverbs and parables, the words of the wise and their riddles. Proverbs 1:3-6 NLT.

 

Jesus told a rich young man… "Why ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments." Matthew 19:17 NLT. Jesus also spoke about being the light…"I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12 NLT. Follow the light. Like bugs drawn to a porch light or a camper’s lantern, we are drawn to the light of the world…Jesus. We don’t have to walk in the darkness of the world—with its sinful nature. We can follow the light that Jesus provides…living with choices that take us closer to Jesus…by following His commandments. In speaking to the Pharisees He reminded them of the greatest of these…You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: Love your neighbor as yourself. The entire law and all the demands of the prophets are based on these two commandments. Matthew 22:37-40 NLT. How does your life measure up to what God wants…what He expects? Are your ways good, right and true?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit. Draw me close to You that I would keep God’s commandments entirely and live a life that is pleasing to the Lord…a thankful and obedient life filled with insight from Jesus—reflecting His glory.
 

© 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

Renewed by the Holy Spirit

He saved us, not on the basis of deeds which we have done in righteousness, but according to His mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewing by the Holy Spirit, whom He poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that being justified by His grace we would be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life. Titus 3:5-7 

Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT. Once again…we make our own choices. We can let the Holy Spirit renew us—our thoughts and attitudes. Attitudes are a big thing. Chuck Swindoll wrote in an essay an “Attitude” that included… I am convinced that life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it. And so it is with you... we are in charge of our Attitudes. We are “in charge of our Attitudes.” God allows us choices in our attitudes. The Holy Spirit will renew our attitude, if we choose to let Him. How’s your attitude today? Personally, I know I could stand to renew my attitude.

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, renew my thoughts and attitudes that I would live to truly please the Lord.

Change me so that my attitude changes from within my heart, soul and mind.

 

 

 

© 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

 

Created for Good Works

For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand so that we would walk in them. Ephesians 2:8-10

 

Eternal salvation is a gift—not something that anyone can buy with money or by doing God some favor or good works. Paul was telling the church at Ephesus and us that we are created for good works—not to do them so that we can boast about them. As a result of our salvation we will want to do good stuff for God and for others to serve God. That’s about it…Paul taught that a couple of thousand years ago and it is still the same today.  So we just have to “walk” or live by faith and obedience to God’s will and His ways. Have to? No—it our choice. God allows us to choose how we will live, act, walk on daily—moment by moment. How does the Holy Spirit play into this? The Holy Spirit guides us—although we still have a choice. Jesus told us about the Holy Spirit. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide you into all the truth; for He will not speak on His own initiative, but whatever He hears, He will speak; and He will disclose to you what is to come. John 16:13. So, are you listening to the Holy Spirit?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me to hear Your voice moment by moment so that I may walk and live in a manner that is acceptable and honoring to God. I choose to live by faith and obedience to my Lord and Savior.

© 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

Peace in a World of Chaos

Let your gentle spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all comprehension, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:5-7

 

Where the Spirit of the Lord is…there is peace. Peace that goes beyond all understanding. Peace that takes away anxiety. Peace that initiates and encourages thankfulness. Peace that keeps you from thinking, saying or doing evil things. Peace that gives you a gentle spirit, caring and concerned for others’ safety and well-being. Peace…tranquility, serenity and harmony. Qualities which we long for in our lives…and that of our families, friends and neighbors. Peace that takes away the chaos of the world. How would you rate the level of peace in your life?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, fill us with Your peace…Your deep abiding peace.

 

© 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

When was the Last Time You Felt Really Rested?

But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all that I said to you. Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Do not let your heart be troubled, nor let it be fearful. John 14:26-27

 

Peace, peace. God’s peace, coming down from the Heavens above…. That is part of a good old hymn.

The world doesn’t give peace although it may think that it does. I think the world promotes fear laced with feel good about yourself feelings; mistrust along with paranoia; and beauty from a box or tube so we can be like the great entertainers on screen and in sporting events. No real peace. But don’t let your heart be troubled—give your worries to the Lord. Jesus was talking to a crowd of people after He had talked to the disciples of John the Baptist…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. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.  Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus will give rest, comfort, and peace to anyone who asks. When was the last time you felt really rested?

 

Are you listening to prophesies of the coming days? Be on guard, so that your hearts will not be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of life, and that day will not come on you suddenly like a trap; for it will come upon all those who dwell on the face of all the earth. But keep on the alert at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that are about to take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.  Luke 21:34-36

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—give me oil in my lamp—and rest to my soul for there are days lately when I am exhausted and I need spiritual, as well as physical, rest.

 

© 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

Walk in Him

Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude. Colossians 2:6-7

 

Walking in the Spirit—walking in Christ Jesus the Lord. To live a spiritual life believers must walk in the Spirit. Live by faith. Faith that Jesus is with us…the Holy Spirit is with us always. He will never leave us or forsake us—Deuteronomy 31:6 and Hebrews 13:5. Be firmly established in your faith isn’t going to happen just drifting through life. You have to build the foundation…brick by brick. Truth by truth. Knowing God’s principles…and putting them into practice. Trusting in the Lord to be there—to help you. Allowing you to serve Him by helping others. Those are the building blocks of the foundation of your faith. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight. Proverbs 3:5-6. Trust. Walk on a straight path… in Trust. Live by faith in the Lord…in the Holy Spirit. 

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—I trust You with all my heart and am overwhelmed with gratitude for the understanding that You give me. Continue to make the path of my life straight—straight into God’s will and His ways.

© 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

Go Ahead and Try

Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts, and do not go on presenting the members of your body to sin as instruments of unrighteousness; but present yourselves to God as those alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness to God. Romans 6:12-13

 

In a Star Wars movie Yoda says…”Do or Don’t Do. There is no try.” Such good advice. No middle of the road. Sometimes for God we just have to try. To give it our best. The Holy Spirit is all about encouraging us to be holy—righteous—to not sin. Present your bodies as a living sacrifice—holy. Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. Romans 12:1. No one, except Jesus, is sinless. We can try—but we are only human and eventually we fail—sometimes miserably. Go ahead and try. God may reward your efforts. David noted that God tried people’s hearts and wants them to be pure—upright. Since I know, O my God, that You try the heart and delight in uprightness, I, in the integrity of my heart, have willingly offered all these things; so now with joy I have seen Your people, who are present here, make their offerings willingly to You. 1 Chronicles 29:17. He went on to pray that his son, Solomon, would have a perfect heart and build the Lord’s Temple. See 1 Chronicles 29. God gave Solomon the wisdom for which he prayed—and Solomon did build the Lord’s Temple, but he wasn’t perfect. Continue reading in 2 Chronicles. As a rich old man he lived to please himself, not God. Are you living to please God? Do or don’t do. The choice is yours.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please give me the grace to live righteously, in a manner that honors God. May I be rewarded with joy and peace as I dedicate my life—moment by moment—to You.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Fresh is always best. I’m not much of a farmer…or gardener—although I do give some effort to growing a few things. At one time I thought I wanted to live on a farm—forever.  Not so much now. This spring I planted some Yukon Gold potatoes that had sprouted in my garage. With the early heat of the summer the new potatoes were ready for harvest last week and they were surprisingly great. I made my favorite potato salad with them for a family gathering. Yum!

 

Fresh Potatoes

My Favorite Dilly Potato Salad

8  fresh medium potatoes, boiled, chilled and chopped

6 hard-boiled eggs, chilled, chop 5 in small pieces;
   reserve 1, sliced for garnish

1¼ cup, or more, mayonnaise with olive oil

4 small dill pickles, chopped finely

½ cup pickle juice

1 rib of celery, chopped finely

1½ Tbsp fresh dill, chopped or 1 Tbsp dried dill

1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped or ½ tsp dried thyme

Freshly ground salt and pepper

¼ tsp dried mustard

¼ tsp celery seed

Paprika, sprinkle for garnish

 

Place chopped (in bite-sized pieces) potatoes, eggs, pickles and celery into a large bowl. Combine the  mayo, thyme, celery seed, mustard, and dill. Mix in salt and pepper to taste. Add enough of the pickle juice to make the dressing a smooth, but not runny, consistency and enough to coat all the potatoes evenly. Sprinkle the salad with paprika and top with sliced hard-boiled egg. Chill for several hours or overnight.  

 

© 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

Walking with the Lord—With the Holy Spirit

For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God…. Colossians 1:9-10.

 

Walking with the Lord. Walking in a worthy manner. What does it mean to you to “be worthy?” worthy of the Lord’s attention…worthy of being associated with the Lord? Paul tells us that to be worthy of the Lord is to please Him in all respect, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God. I’m sure that means keeping His commandments—and living in such a way others can see Jesus in our lives and actions. Walking with the Lord is also following the guidance of the Holy Spirit—responding to His nudges and to that still small voice that encourages us to do the right thing. That is the Holy Spirit working in our lives. Are you attuned to hear His voice? Are you doing good works and bearing fruit? Those good deeds won’t get you to Heaven…but it may encourage others and draw them to the Lord as they see you walking with the Lord.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide me as I walk—spiritually travel along this life with You. As I grow in my knowledge of God, give me insights into ways to please Him in all that I think, say and do. May I show Your fruit…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) in everything that I do. You’ve taught me well—I hope I’m walking in a way that is worthy of the Lord.

© 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

Light or Darkness

This is the message we have heard from Him and announce to you, that God is Light, and in Him there is no darkness at all. If we say that we have fellowship with Him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not practice the truth; but if we walk in the Light as He Himself is in the Light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus His Son cleanses us from all sin. If we say that we have no sin, we are deceiving ourselves and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:5-9

 

We are told that to live a spiritual life believers need to walk in the Spirit—and to confess our sins. Walking in the Light—in God’s light—His purity and holiness means to me that we live in obedience to God’s Word—His commandments. The Holy Spirit guides us—our thoughts, words, and actions—as we yield our own life to God…in obedience to Him. Obedience is a humbling experience. We have to put our own desires aside and chose to do whatever it is that God wants us to do—to honor Him. We have the option of choosing light or darkness. To choose God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—is to choose Light. In choosing Light, we choose truth in our lives—and that includes admitting that we have sinned. We are only human—we can’t be perfect. Admitting that we have sinned opens the door to forgiveness…and to being cleansed from that sin. Ask and you will receive. …whatever we ask we receive from Him, because we keep His commandments and do the things that are pleasing in His sight. 1 John 3:22.

 

Are you walking in darkness or in light? What have you asked for from God?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—I confess that I have sinned as I put my own selfish desires before those of you or even of my family and friends. Forgive me, God, for the sins that have broken my fellowship with You and with others. Guide my thoughts, words and action as I choose to be obedient to You. I choose Light. Renew my faith in You. Thank You for Your love and for choosing me to be part of Your family.

 

© 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

Tasty Words

Let your speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that you will know how you should respond to each person. Colossians 4:6

   

Speak up giving nice, kind words of response to everyone. What does this have to do with the Holy Spirit? The Holy Spirit will give us words to speak if we don’t know what to say. Amazing. I have experienced that. It often happens when praying—and the Holy Spirit will just put words of comfort, encouragement and joy in my mouth. That gives me joy and renewed hope.

 

It is the Spirit who gives life; the flesh profits nothing; the words that I have spoken to you are spirit and are life. John 6:63  

 

A gracious woman attains honor…. Proverbs 11:16

One who is gracious to a poor man lends to the LORD, and He will repay him for his good deed. Proverbs 19:17

 

Seasoned with salt. Have you ever eaten a meal using no salt? It makes for a pretty tasteless meal. Salt adds flavor and essential nutrients that our bodies need—especially the popular block or sea salts. Does salt ever lose its flavor?  Can we lose our “flavor”—our spiritual vitality? Therefore, salt is good; but if even salt has become tasteless, with what will it be seasoned? Luke 14:34.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—give me gracious words to say to encourage or enlighten others that they would seek to know or understand more about Jesus. Keep my words “salty” that what I say wouldn’t be tasteless or ordinary—but vibrant and alive as Jesus is.

 

© 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

Live Wisely

Live wisely among those who are not believers, and make the most of every opportunity. Colossians 4:5 NLT

 

Live wisely. Wisdom is… varied knowledge of things human and divine.

-        …the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, reasonable, full of mercy and good fruits, unwavering, without hypocrisy. James 3:17

-        Who has put wisdom in the innermost being or given understanding to the mind? Job 38:36

-        The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom; a good understanding have all those who do His commandments; His praise endures forever. Psalm 111:10

-        Know that wisdom is thus for your soul; if you find it, then there will be a future, and your hope will not be cut off. Proverbs 24:14

-        For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit…. 1 Corinthians 12:8

-        But if any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all generously and without reproach, and it will be given to him. James 1:5

Ask God for wisdom to make you wise—wise in Him. Use that knowledge and wisdom that He gives you  to tell others about Christ and what He has done for you. Can you make a list of what has He done for you?

 

After Jesus healed a demon possessed young man He said…"Return to your house and describe what great things God has done for you." So he went away, proclaiming throughout the whole city what great things Jesus had done for him. Luke 8:39

 

We need to always be prepare…to be ready to witness for Christ. …but sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence….1 Peter 3:15

 

Are you wisely preparing to tell others about what Jesus has done for you personally?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give me wisdom and remind me specifically what Jesus has done for me. He died for me. Taking away my sin, He has given me confidence, wisdom and courage to speak up for myself and for Him. He healed my heart during times of depression and has given me a renewed hope for an eternal lifetime ahead with Him. He has blessed me with a loving family, my great husband, terrific children, wonderful grandchildren, encouraging, fun-loving friends and a compassionate church family. What more could I ask for? Thank you—for Your 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

Alert?

Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Pray for us, too, that God will give us many opportunities to speak about His mysterious plan concerning Christ. That is why I am here in chains. Pray that I will proclaim this message as clearly as I should. Colossians 4:2-4 NLT

 

It’s Sunday. How often do you start to doze off during church? Somehow that late night on Saturday…plus the quietness of prayer time and the lull of the pastor’s voice just helps you drift off into…sleep land. Not good! I found that years ago when I began to take notes it helped me stay alert. That is what Paul is talking about with the church at Colossae. Be committed to praying—keep your mind alert and your heart focused on giving thanks to God. He deserves our gratitude for He has revealed to us His marvelous and yet mystifying plan for eternal life. It must have been challenging for Paul to tell others about Christ—imagine being in chained up in prison—and yet singing and praising the Lord. I pray that God will give me opportunities to tell others about Christ in a clear and concise manner—not in a jail cell…but in my daily walk with Him.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, sometimes I just don’t see Christ working in my life—but I know He is always with me—helping me to make good choices and protecting me. Show me ways that Christ has worked in my life—today—and lead me into opportunities where I can share that information with others. May this bring glory to God.

Happy Birthday, Michelle.

You are God’s walking miracle. I joyously praise Him for your life and health.

May He continue to bless you...as you seek and serve Him.

© 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

Are You Feeling His Peace?

And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom He gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father. Colossians 3:15-17 NLT 

 

Giving thanks is so important that it is repeated here in these verses. “Be thankful” and “giving thanks….” For what is it that we are to be thankful? For Christ—for His message—His wisdom. Paul is teaching here that we are to be representatives of Jesus. God the Father wants us to be like His Son…so we are not only His children, but His ambassadors. Peace, peace. God’s peace—with thankful hearts. Awesome thoughts. Peace…not strife. Peace…not fear. Peace…not selfish pride. Pure peace—coming down from the Father. So we’re to tell others about Christ…His peace in our lives. Sing to the Lord—and give thanks. Are you feeling His Peace today?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, I praise and thank You for the peace that I feel—that I know is mine because of what Christ has done for me…for all of us. I sing to the Lord with joy for the love that God has given 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

Can You Overlook Other’s Faults?

Since God chose you to be the holy people He loves, you must clothe yourselves with tenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. Make allowance for each other's faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds us all together in perfect harmony. Colossians 3:12-14 NLT 

 

Now at Colossae, Paul is again teaching how to live a good Christian life. Some of the qualities he mentions are the same as the fruit of the Spirit: kindness, gentleness, patience and, of course, love. Those qualities flow from a person who is filled with the Spirit and focused on pleasing God. People who are focused on God will be able to make allowances for other’s faults. No doubt about it. I’ve found that when I am right with God—other’s annoyances aren’t nearly as annoying. Perfect harmony—the result of living God’s way—is inspired by the Holy Spirit as He binds us together in His Love. Pure love—that comes from the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit. Are you basking in His Love?

 

Prayer ~  Holy Spirit, clothe me in Your love that I would humbly be merciful, show kindness, be gentle and patient with others.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

I’ve been doing some cleaning out of old cookbooks and recipes. In that endeavor I found a tattered old recipe for Apple-Carrot Quick Bread. With our hot early summer, apples are in season now. Enjoy this quick bread for breakfast, lunch, snack or even topped with a little creamed cheese for dinner dessert.

 

Apple-Carrot Quick Bread

Makes 1 loaf

 

1½ cups peeled, shredded apples (about 2 medium sized)

½ cup shredded carrot (1 medium)

¼ cup butter, softened

½ tsp lemon extract

2 eggs

1¾ cups unbleached flour

2/3 cup sugar

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

½ cup chopped nuts (optional)

 

Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease bottom of 9x5 or 8x4 inch loaf pan. In a large mixing bowl blend first five ingredients. Add the rest of the ingredients, except nuts and beat for 3 minutes at medium speed. Stir in the nuts. Pour batter into the greased loaf pan. Bake 50-60 minutes or until toothpick inserted into the middle of the bread comes out clean. Remove from pan and allow to cool. Refrigerate any leftovers.

 

© 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

United in the Holy Spirit

Therefore I, a prisoner for serving the Lord, beg you to lead a life worthy of your calling, for you have been called by God. Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other's faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. For there is one body and one Spirit, just as you have been called to one glorious hope for the future. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all. Ephesians 4:1-6 NLT

 

Here is Paul again appealing to the church at Ephesus to know that God has chosen them and they need to live a good life—united together in the Holy Spirit. It is important for the church to be unified—united in their devotion to the Lord and to each other—as they serve God. It’s important—but it is NOT what all churches do. People within church are just human and quite frankly we all are usually selfish individuals that always feel that our way is “right”—that we are right. Is that a self-righteous attitude? It is an attitude that causes division in the church—limits trust in each other and in God. Paul is teaching that we need to be humble and gentle—keys to humility that allows walls to break down and people to be united. That gives me hope. Jesus—as revealed by the Holy Spirit—gives hope. There is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, and one God and Father, who is over all and in all and living through all. Where do you find hope? Do you find hope in unity with other Christians as you seek the Lord together?    

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me to humble myself and gently approach other Christians with an attitude that creates unity as we seek to know God better.

 

© 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

Music for Your Soul

Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. Ephesians 5:18-19 NLT 

 

Be filled with the Holy Spirit—not wine. Both give a euphoric feeling—but no hangover, fuzzy brain or regrets the next day with the Holy Spirit. Wine can be tasty, even enhancing foods with wonderful flavor, but getting drunk can literally ruin one’s life. Wise advice from Paul to the church at Ephesus. The city of Ephesus was under the influence of worship of the pagan goddess Artemis (Diana) prior to the establishment of the Christian church there. They may have been drunken, hard hearted Gentiles, but Paul was encouraging the Christians as they changed their ways. (See Ephesians 4:17-32.)  We are encouraged, too, to be filled—to be complete—by having the Holy Spirit guide our lives and by worshipping the Lord with music in our hearts. Music is an amazing phenomenon. It lingers in our minds and hearts long after we’ve heard it. An acquaintance of mine plays the harp and takes a portable one into the hospital for music therapy. Wonderful. I recently was reminded of the value of music in healing—and that particular harmonics touch our very souls. I think that is what Paul was writing about here…making music to the Lord in your hearts. Music goes beyond our ears—it goes to our heart and soul. When was the last time you slowed down enough to feel music—not just hear it—but feel it in your bones, your heart—your very soul?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, may I worship the Lord continually with music in my heart, mind, and soul. Let that music energize, heal and invigorate me, my family and friends in a way that we can glorify the Heavenly Father through Your inspiration. I praise You that there is so much music available—and I rejoice in hearing it not only with my ears—but with my heart, soul and mind as well.

 

© 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