Leap Into the Last Day…of February

Lent – Day 20

My words are plain to anyone with understanding, clear to those with knowledge. Choose my instruction rather than silver, and knowledge rather than pure gold. For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it. "I, Wisdom, live together with good judgment. I know where to discover knowledge and discernment." Proverbs 8:9-12

Leap year..leap day. It only happens once every four years. One of my brothers got married on a leap day—their marriage only lasted through about four anniversaries. But 16 years is good for him. Are you doing anything memorable today? Will what you do today make a difference in the life of someone else…tomorrow or four years from now? Are you available to help others…are you willing to give up your time and energy to assist them?

God gives WISDOM. Solomon tells us that Wisdom lives together with good judgment and with that a person can discover knowledge and discernment. As you go through this day ask yourself what is important…WISDOM? GOOD JUDGMENT? KNOWLEDGE? DISCERNMENT? What do you get in life? Solomon also wrote Ecclesiastes…and I find it very pessimistic. Life had reached a level of meaninglessness to him. Even in his struggle with meaning he writes that God give wisdom, knowledge and joy to those who please Him.

So what do people get in this life for all their hard work and anxiety? Their days of labor are filled with pain and grief; even at night their minds cannot rest. It is all meaningless. So I decided there is nothing better than to enjoy food and drink and to find satisfaction in work. Then I realized that these pleasures are from the hand of God. For who can eat or enjoy anything apart from him? God gives wisdom, knowledge, and joy to those who please Him. But if a sinner becomes wealthy, God takes the wealth away and gives it to those who please him. This, too, is meaningless--like chasing the wind. - Ecclesiastes 2:22-26

Are you doing what pleases God? I want to joyfully leap into the rest of this year with an attitude of gratefulness to God for all that He provides and has done for me, for my family, friends and for my neighbors. He is good. Being available to God…to be His hands and feet…to show His love and care for others is important to me. How about you?

Prayer ~ Lord, where do You need me today? How can I best serve others for You, today? Give me wisdom to serve You in a way that pleases You—beyond what You expect of me.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Show Some Understanding

Lent – Day 19

Listen as Wisdom calls out! Hear as understanding raises her voice! On the hilltop along the road, she takes her stand at the crossroads. ... "I call to you, to all of you! I raise my voice to all people. You simple people, use good judgment. You foolish people, show some understanding." Proverbs 8:1-2, 4-5

Nineteen days into the Lenten season. You are at a crossroad—here and now in your life. Do you hear Wisdom calling—Do you hear Understanding? Simple people use good judgment. They don’t have anyone that they are trying to impress or persuade. Those people show good judgment and understanding. They are blessed by the Lord—the source of Wisdom. Can you live your life today in a way that is not complicated by prejudices, popularity, or predefined notions that some people are just better than others? God created mankind in His likeness—in His image. Spiritually pure with the traits of being trustworthy, kind, generous, loving, joyful, peaceful, patient, good, gentle, faithful, and self-controlled. There are an additional endless number of qualities that make God who He is and those can be somehow part of our character, too. Don’t be foolish. Seek Wisdom. Use good judgment. Show some empathy to others—really trying to understand them, their situation and problems, and their relationship to God.

Prayer ~ God, this is a day for each of us to turn to You…to hear You calling out to us with Wisdom and Understanding. Help us to make good choices—to use good judgment—that our choices would reflect on You bringing You glory.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Do You Treat Wisdom Like Your Sister?

Lent – Day 18

Follow my advice, my son; always treasure my commands. Obey my commands and live! Guard my instructions as you guard your own eyes. Tie them on your fingers as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Love wisdom like a sister; make insight a beloved member of your family. Proverbs  7:1-4

That is the command of the day. Love…or treasure wisdom and understanding like beloved family members. I love my family—treasure them, second only to God. Treasure Wisdom. That was Solomon’s advice to his son and to young men of his day. He is giving us the same advice. It isn’t just a suggestion to follow. It is a lifestyle to uphold—to be obedient to purity. Solomon is saying to ALWAYS treasure his commands—not just to keep them sometimes—but always. That’s the way it is with God’s commands…we must live by them—obey. Obey…not just tie a string around our finger to remind us—but actually live our lives in a way that is pleasing to the Lord. Do you love wisdom? Are wisdom and understanding treasured parts of your life?

Prayer ~ Lord God, I hear You speaking through Solomon. Follow advice…obey Your commands. You are so worthy—and I love Your Wisdom and Understanding. Write Your commands and instructions on my heart—that I may live to please You.

 © 2016 by  Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Listen Up—Pay Attention

Lent – Day 17

My son, pay attention to my wisdom; listen carefully to my wise counsel. Proverbs 5:1

Have you ever tried to get a six-year old to listen to your advice? They have their own agenda and ideas. Is being a non-conformist at that age typical? I think so. To convince them that they must listen and obey is a challenge for any parent—especially for those with a strong-willed child, like my younger grandson. Listen, pay attention…obey. Those are not words he is anxious to hear or to which he wants to respond. For a six-year old he thinks the wise council is already in his own head—he has his agenda and his ideas. Are we grownups like that, too? Do we go head-strong into our day with our own agenda—not pursuing God’s will? We all know that we need to stop at the beginning of the day—pause and get into God’s Word…seek His will for us moment by moment. But do we always do that? Guess I am looking in the mirror here…preaching to the choir…to myself. I am condemning my own actions because I haven’t followed my plan of reading a few chapters of the Bible every morning. Is my excuse of little ones demanding my time really a viable excuse? No. I could get up a little earlier while they are still sleeping so that I could have more of a quality quiet time. That is just what I need to do. Is the wisdom that you are giving to others the same wisdom that you are applying to your life? I challenge you to look at your own wise counsel to yourself.

Prayer ~ Oh Lord, counsel us as You guide our hearts, thoughts and actions that we would be filled with wisdom and thus make good choices.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

One of my favorite desserts is a variety of cheeses and fruit—usually thinly sliced apples. There are so many cheeses available.  We lived in Okinawa for a while and the Japanese there would frequently serve sliced oranges, apples, or Asian pears for dessert. When we went on a European River cruise one of the dessert options was assorted cheeses with fruits and nuts. I think that is when I fell in love with cheese and fruit. I also like a nice slice of cheddar cheese on warm apple pie. It may seem a little weird, but if you speak nicely to the order staff you can even get a slice of cheese on those little apple desserts at McDonald's. That’s desperate for a connoisseur’s dessert.

For a real taste test dessert course I’ve learned that you should serve three different cheeses—no more than that—so that your guests are not overwhelmed and the cheeses can be truly enjoyed. The cheeses should be served at room temperature. One of the trio should be a soft cheese, like a brie or Savarin. Serve it with some honey or caramelized nuts. Another cheese should be a hard cheese—like aged Gouda. A third variety could be a blue or Roquefort type cheese. Any of the varieties could be made from sheep, goat or cow’s milk. Serve fruit— fresh sliced apples, pears, or blueberries—or even dried fruit such as unsulphured apricots or prunes—stewed in a nice port wine. Serve a soft cheese like ricotta with fruit chutney or fruit compote and nut bread. One of my favorites is a blueberry white cheddar cheese served with some almonds or pecans. Cheeses make a great dessert—be creative and give them a try and in the process educate your palate. Actually, you’ll want to sniff your cheeses before you taste them. Our noses really tell us more about the taste of food than our tongue. Be sure to touch and visually examine the cheeses, too. Make notes of the cheeses you like and don’t like. Enjoy the process of discovering cheese as a dessert. It is an age old food that God inspired and David took to his brothers when they were fighting the Philistines. David likely had some cheese for breakfast the day he fought Goliath. One day Jesse said to David, "Take this basket of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread, and carry them quickly to your brothers. And give these ten cuts of cheese to their captain. See how your brothers are getting along, and bring back a report on how they are doing." 1 Samuel 17:17-18.

Enjoy some cheese soon for dessert…or any time of day. It is a good source of calcium that will facilitate your brain synapses. You never know when you’ll have to face Goliath—or need to share some wisdom with a loved one. You want to be thinking clearly. Eat cheese.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Choose To Act Wisely

Lent – Day 16

The wise inherit honor, but fools are put to shame! Proverbs 3:35

Honor is…glory, esteem, integrity, respect, dignity, distinction or reputation, a tribute or a commendation. The wise person is given admiration while the fool is disgraced and embarrassed. So do you consider yourself wise or do you fall into the foolish category? There are probably all things that we do that are wise…or foolish. Wise actions bring honor to those people…and to God. Foolish actions bring dishonor. What more can we say?  Solomon said it all.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to think before we act and to choose to act wisely—that we would bring honor to ourselves and to You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Be Wise—Get Wisdom

Lent – Day 15

Getting wisdom is the wisest thing you can do! And whatever else you do, develop good judgment. Proverbs 4:7

Develop good judgment. You’d think that good judgment would be one of those things that come as a “gift” not something that you have to “learn” but Solomon is advising us here to develop good judgment.

You have done many good things for me, LORD, just as you promised. I believe in your commands; now teach me good judgment and knowledge. Psalm 119:65-66. God is still the source of good judgment and knowledge—so ask Him to help you develop good judgment. It is a quality that is valuable to have at work, at home or in social situations. Good judgment is much like common sense—just one of those things that helps put wisdom to work in your life—and keeps you out of trouble. It helps you to make wise choices and good decisions.

My children, listen when your father corrects you. Pay attention and learn good judgment, for I am giving you good guidance. Don't turn away from my instructions. ... My father taught me, "Take my words to heart. Follow my commands, and you will live.” Proverbs 4:1-2, 4. Old advice…Do What I Tell You To Do! Same as “follow my commands.” That is very beneficial, sound advice that we’ve probably all heard—but have we listened? Obedience to one’s father is the sign of a well-behaved child. Obedience to The Heavenly Father is the sign of a person who will live forever filled with the Father’s peace, joy and love. Spread the wealth around. Share our Father’s love.  

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, once again we ask you for Wisdom—it is the wisest thing we can do. Show us how we can best develop good judgment that we would make good decisions and live wisely all the days we have left here on earth.

Happy Birthday, Debbie J.

May God continue to bless you with creativity beyond measure.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

From Where Does Your Wisdom Come?

Lent – Day 14

Get wisdom; develop good judgment. Don't forget my words or turn away from them. Don't turn your back on wisdom, for she will protect you. Love her, and she will guard you. Proverbs 4:5-6

Get wisdom. We are told this over and over…

How much better to get wisdom than gold, and good judgment than silver! Proverbs 16:16

Get the truth and never sell it; also get wisdom, discipline, and good judgment. Proverbs 23:23

Early in His ministry when Jesus went to Nazareth, people there wondered where He got His wisdom….He returned to Nazareth, his hometown. When He taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, "Where does He get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?" Matthew 13:54. Will people wonder about the source of your wisdom? What will you tell them? My wisdom comes from God—creator of the universe and my risen Lord and Savior.

Solomon told us in this passage that Wisdom will protect us, if we love her. How would you show that you “loved” Wisdom? Would you tell others about her—where Wisdom comes from? Or would you just claim that your wisdom just came with age—would that be “turning your back on her? Sometimes we get what we ask for—but we must pay for it…and there is no free lunch in this lifetime.

My husband’s aunt Carole went to be with the Lord yesterday. She loved the Lord our God with all of her mind, soul, heart and strength—and trusted her neighbors, one of whom even stole her wallet. What trust. She was a loving and wise 91 year old lady who kept a lot of family and friends together because of her encouraging, loving ways. Feisty and loving—what a great combination. There should be more people like her. How will people remember you?

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, Please give Aunt Carole’s family Your peace and strength as they go through this transition in life without her. May they continue to feel Your love that once flowed through her. Grant us all Your mercy and wisdom as we seek to live in ways that please You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Gifts from Wisdom

Lent – Day 13

My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. Proverbs 3:21-22

Common sense and discernment—gifts of Wisdom. Common sense is truly a gift to those who have it—for it makes life so much easier. Discernment, like understanding, allows a person to see beyond themselves—to understand things that are happening around them or to other people. Discernment actually helps a person to be sensitive to judging other people’s character and actions. That is a useful ability. A real gift that can be refreshing to one’s soul. Common sense and discernment can give a person confidence in themselves—especially as they see the Lord working in their life. Good reason to “hang on to” those traits—to rely on them—to use those gifts from the Lord God—the very giver of Wisdom. Do you see yourself having common sense or the quality of discernment? Do you see those qualities in your children or grandchildren? Is it possible to help them develop those qualities? Yes, it begins with prayer. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11. Pray for your family that they would have discernment.

Prayer ~ Lord, be gracious to me, my family, friends and neighbors to fill us with common sense and discernment that can only come from and through You. Give us wisdom to use these gifts wisely for you.

This is the birthday of George Washington--Father of our Country. Remembering his dedication and service to our nation. 

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

God Created….

Lent – Day 12

By wisdom the LORD founded the earth; by understanding He created the heavens. By His knowledge the deep fountains of the earth burst forth, and the dew settles beneath the night sky. Proverbs 3:19-20

Without God and His infinite Wisdom, understanding and knowledge—life as we know it would not exist. You probably know the first verse of the Bible by heart. In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1. From this verse in Proverbs we are told that this happened by the Lord’s Wisdom, Understanding and Knowledge. We take this all for granted…and just believe. What about those people who Don’t Believe in God? Maybe they just trust the idea that a Big Bang happened and poof! The Earth was created. Then it took millions of years for things to evolve…plants and animals. The Bible is pretty specific in Genesis 2:1-2 (NASB), Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their hosts. And by the seventh day God completed His work, which He had done; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had done.  He wasn’t done being wise…or done having understanding or applying His knowledge. He was just done creating—so He rested. It’s a good idea to rest after six days of work. If I wasn’t retired, I’d rest after only five days of work—haha. Now that I’m retired…and just tired, I rest more frequently than after five or six

days of work! It would be nice to be able to just walk on the beach, view the sunrise and sunset of God’s creation and contemplate God’s creation…day by day. No matter where we are, we can continue to remember, rejoice, and reflect on the glories of the heavens and the earth—and on God’s Wisdom, Understanding and Knowledge. He is truly an awesome God. Give glory to His name.

Prayer ~ Thank You, God, for Your wonderful creation of the earth and the heavens. Your knowledge is beyond our comprehension—but we continually rejoice in Your goodness, mercy, wisdom and love. As the days go by may it be more evident to us all of Your infinite Wisdom and love. Touch those who don’t know You that they would see You in creation and believe.

The Internet may not be dependable…but God is. Count on Him—connect to Him for your strength and power today!

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Tree of Life

Lent – Day 11

She (Wisdom) will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly. Proverbs 3:17-18

The Tree of Life is…a symbol of the hope of eternal life.

After Adam and Eve ate fruit from the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, The Lord God said… "Look, the human beings have become like us, knowing both good and evil. What if they reach out, take fruit from the tree of life, and eat it? Then they will live forever!" Genesis 3:22.

Anyone with ears to hear must listen to the Spirit and understand what He is saying to the churches. To everyone who is victorious I will give fruit from the tree of life in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7.

Tree of Life. I’ve come to love that symbol of the Tree of Life—knowing that it is treasured by God, honored by men, and satisfies everyone who dreams…especially of Heaven and eternal life. I frequently wear a Tree of Life necklace reminding me of God’s love and promise. Psalm One also reflects on such a tree…

How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, nor stand in the path of sinners, nor sit in the seat of scoffers! But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and in His law he meditates day and night. He will be like a tree firmly planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in its season and its leaf does not wither; and in whatever he does, he prospers. The wicked are not so, but they are like chaff which the wind drives away. Therefore the wicked will not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the assembly of the righteous. For the LORD knows the way of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish. Psalm 1:1-6 NASB.

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, I look forward to standing before You and the Tree of Life in Paradise one day…as I begin my eternal life with You. I appreciate Your law—Your Word—and I ask that You would allow me to produce good fruit that would bring honor and glory to You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

The Valuable Wisdom

Lent – Day 10

For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. Proverbs 3:14-16

If Wisdom were a commodity then trading it on the stock market would be interesting! More valuable than gold, silver or stock in major companies. Can you imagine people calling out prices for buying and selling Wisdom? Would there be degrees of wisdom…a little wisdom from the east coast verses a little wisdom from the west coast? Or can wisdom be viewed as a precious stone—a jewel that you could put on earrings, a necklace or ring for your finger? What color would it be—or would it appear as a rainbow? Wisdom is more precious than rubies which are considered the most valuable of all gemstones—to some even more valuable than diamonds. How would you value wisdom? Wisdom is offering you long life and honor. God Himself offers us eternal life…that is long life—forever. He honors us by giving us the love that we don’t deserve…or expect. God is the giver of Wisdom…of Life and of Love. What can you give God in return? He doesn’t expect anything—He just freely gives.

Prayer ~ Thank You, Heavenly Father for the ultimate gift of Your Son—the sacrifice for mankind’s sin. We are so undeserving of Your Love and Wisdom—but we humbly accept what You have so graciously offered us—Life everlasting—freedom from sin—Love abundant and overflowing. We praise You—and adore You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Good food, health, and Wisdom seem to go hand in hand. The best place start is with the inside out. Feed your inside good food…or in this case…good tea. Good anti-inflammatory—especially important during this wintery season of the year when germs abound.

                       

Digestive Tonic Tea

            Peppermint

            Bay Leaf

            Fennel Seeds

            Caraway Seeds

            Anise Seed or Dried Liquorice Root

Blend equal parts of all the dry ingredients and store in a jar or metal tea box.

Use 4 teaspoons of the dry mix per cup. Brew for 10 minutes. Enjoy a cup every day.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Be Filled with Joy…and Wisdom

Lent – Day 9

Joyful is the person who finds wisdom, the one who gains understanding. Proverbs 3:13

Before I went off to college my mother painted a Serenity Prayer for me. It graced my walls for years, providing guidance, encouragement, and conviction. God gives joy to those who seek it…who want it. Jesus said…You haven't done this before (ask for anything in Jesus’ name). Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. John 16:24.

Serenity Prayer

God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,

Courage to change the things I can,

And wisdom to know the difference.

Accepting things that you can’t change…like who you are.

Courage is something that we all have to muster up at some point. When Jesus was walking on the water His disciples couldn’t believe that it was Him. But Jesus spoke to them at once. "Don't be afraid," He said. "Take courage. I am here!" Matthew 14:27. Jesus commanded them to take courage. He expects the same of us. Have some courage—take charge of things…things that you can change in your life. Have a place for everything…and put things in their place. Take charge…change what you can. Ask God to give you the wisdom to know the difference between those things that you can and cannot change. That Wisdom will certainly bring you joy…a contentment with your life as you take control of the things that you can control and release to God the things that you cannot control. Serenity. A calmness to your life that will give you peace. Let the Holy Spirit guide your life that you would have the fruit of the Spirit. But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things! Galatians 5:22-23. Are you taking courage to change the things you can in your life…and letting go of the things you cannot change?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide our thoughts, words and actions that we would have courage to change the things in our lives that we can so that our lives would be pleasing to the Lord. Show us how to deal with those things we cannot change…that we would be willing to let go of them. Give us wisdom to know the difference between what we can and cannot change—and fill our lives with joy.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Be Wise and Accept Discipline

Lent – Day 8

My child, don't reject the LORD's discipline, and don't be upset when He corrects you. For the LORD corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights. Proverbs 3:11-12

It takes some wisdom to accept discipline from the Lord. Just to know that it is the LORD who is correcting you takes some discernment. But, like Solomon says…don’t get upset. Don’t blow off the handle and get all frustrated. Feel privileged. God only corrects those He loves…but then…For God loved the world so much that He gave His one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16. Does that mean that God disciplines everyone? I don’t think so. If God doesn't discipline you as He does all of His children, it means that you are illegitimate and are not really His children at all. Hebrews 12:8. He wants those who love and serve Him to be obedient…and corrects them so they will obey. Are you feeling loved by the Lord?

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord. Ephesians 6:4. Love the Lord your God—love your children.

Prayer ~ Lord God, show us Your love. We humbly submit to Your discipline and the way that You correct and admonish us so that we can become more like You, Jesus. May the world know that we are Yours by the way that we love others for You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Giving Back

Lent – Day 7

Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the best part of everything you produce. Then He will fill your barns with grain, and your vats will overflow with good wine. Proverbs 3:9-10.

Do you give up something for Lent…or do you add something? Some people I know give up sodas or chocolate…and others add something—like reading through the New Testament in the 40 days of Lent. What do you do? It may end up like old New Year’s Resolutions—forgotten a week later. So this is the seventh day of Lent, have you made any changes in your life in regards to preparation for the upcoming cross of Good Friday…or the joyous celebration of Resurrection Sunday? Personally I’ve tried to make a change in my life that honors the Lord—like treating everyone as if they were Jesus. Have you ever tried doing things for others as if they were Jesus? That would honor the Lord.

These verses above follow the “don’t be wise in your own eyes” verse. If a person is following the Lord and respecting Him, then giving Him the first fruits the way that He has asked, even as early as Cain and Able, will be yet another way of showing reverence and admiration. The Lord has promised to give bountiful harvests to those who respect Him. Even today harvesting grain and fruit depends on hard work that the farmer has put in for months. To be blessed by the Lord is a joyful event—we should give Him the honor that is due Him even for the bounty of our gardens. Can you give back a portion of what He has provided?

Prayer ~ Thank You Lord for all that You have given and provided for us—for we have an abundance of food on our table year-around. Please continue to bless our family, friends and neighbors with all that we need. As we get ready to plant our gardens soon, give us wisdom in the planning, sowing and care of our plants that we would have an abundance to share with others. We praise You…and give You the honor due You—for You are an awesome God—providing Wisdom and Love to all.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Praises to the Lord

Lent – Day 6

Don't be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the LORD and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. Proverbs 3:7-8

You know that when you get Wisdom—and get all smart that your head might get kind of blown out of proportion. You might get a fat head. Well—Solomon is telling us here not to get all fat headed. Don’t be impressed with yourself—with your own wisdom. You might be impressed with the Wisdom of God…but not of yourself. God’s Wisdom can be just awesome…and awe inspiring. He’s like that. Awesome. We need to be humble. Our wisdom isn’t our own—but it comes from God. Keep that respect level for God high. Higher than high. Likewise we need to turn away from evil. Run from it. There are a couple of good examples in scriptures telling us to turn away or to run from evil.

Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. - Psalm 34:14 NLT

Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Then the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will be your helper, just as you have claimed. Amos 5:14.

But you, Timothy, are a man of God; so run from all these evil things (the love of money). Pursue righteousness and a godly life, along with faith, love, perseverance, and gentleness. 1 Timothy 6:11.

Note that in those verses we are also told to “do good” or to live a good life. That, along with the promise to have healing for your body…and strength for your bones, are things for which to live. They are things of which it is worthy to seek and know God. He is so worthy of our adoration, our love and our respect (fear). If you have never really looked for God—try it today. Search for Him with all your heart… search again for the LORD your God. And if you search for Him with all your heart and soul, you will find Him. Deuteronomy 4:29. I searched…and I found Him. His love is boundless. He loves you…just as I know He loves me.

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, I know that You promise healing for our bodies and strength for our bones—and I praise You that You have heard our prayers and have given my dear Grandgirl Amelia a time of remission from her juvenile arthritis. Thank You-Thank You-Thank You! Continue to bless her and now please give Liberty that same remission soon. Jesus, You said to let the little children come to You. These children know and love You. Thank You for being their savior…their Lord…and their great physician.

I praise You for renewed health, strength and for Your peace in our lives. Once again…it is so good to reconnect with friends from the past…and I thank you, Lord, for Bonnie and Russell—for their health, strength and witness of Your love.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Trust with Your Heart—All Your Heart

Lent – Day 5

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek His will in all you do, and He will show you which path to take. Proverbs 3:5-6

With all your heart. Trust the Lord…trust Him to take care of you. Don’t depend on your mind making decisions for you. Look for His guidance and His will for your life. He will show you what to do…where to go. There are lots of scriptures about the “heart” and “trusting” the Lord.

The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust Him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. Psalm 28:7

Trust in the LORD and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. Psalm 37:3

But blessed are those who trust in the LORD and have made the LORD their hope and confidence. Jeremiah 17:7

And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength. Mark 12:30

To me the most important verse concerning your heart is this one about salvation. This is the path…the path to salvation that you want to travel—and take as many people with you as possible.

If you confess with your mouth that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved. Romans 10:9

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, on this Valentines’ Day help me to share Your love from my heart. May all my family friends and neighbors seek to know and serve You with all their heart, soul, mind and strength—just as I do.

Happy Birthday, Kendall!

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

How Loyal Are You?

Lent – Day 4

Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. Proverbs 3:3-4

Loyalty and kindness are virtues that are part of Jesus very character. Loyalty is remaining committed to God, to those He has brought into our lives, or even to ourselves in times of difficulty. God puts people in our paths to serve Him—opportunities of service and sometimes a test of loyalty.

He who pursues righteousness and loyalty finds life, righteousness and honor. Proverbs 21:21. Pursue righteousness and wisdom. Be loyal.

Pursue – to follow, seek, chase, hunt. Look for something intently. When you find loyalty in your own heart—instill it in your children or grandchildren’s hearts. Loyalty to God, to family, friends, their school, and themselves. According to this verse when a person finds loyalty then they get life, righteousness and honor. Can we assume that to be eternal life? Eternal life only comes through Jesus Christ, the Son of God. Seek Him and give Him your loyalty…then eternal life will be yours. Righteousness is simply right living before God. That happens when a person accepts Christ as their savior and makes a change in their lifestyle—in their very personality and in their character. Loyalty results in righteousness and honor.

Many a man proclaims his own loyalty, but who can find a trustworthy man? ... Loyalty and truth preserve the king, and he upholds his throne by righteousness. Proverbs 20:6, 28.  How loyal are you?

Prayer ~ Lord, I pledge my loyalty to You…and ask for Your wisdom.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Don’t Forget What You Have Been Taught

Happy 1^st Birthday, Julia!

Lent – Day 3

My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Proverbs 3:1-2

Imagine that we are sitting around the King’s Table. God asks what we’d like. Please pass a large portion of Health…and a bowl of Wisdom. What is Wisdom without Health? I need Health. There is nothing like the happy face of a little child to bring a smile to your face…and make your life, joyful, satisfying—and dare I say healthy. A cheerful look brings joy to the heart; good news makes for good health. Proverbs 15:30. O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you restored my health. Psalm 30:2. Health is good…necessary. Wisdom without health is useless. Enjoy your health. Continue to seek Wisdom.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I do ask you to restore our health—for Jerry and me. Be merciful and gracious to us—and to those around us…that no one else would get the flu. Give us Your Wisdom and guide us as we use it to please you.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Years ago a dear friend of our gave us a 14 carot Carrot Cake--and this recipe.

14 Carot Carrot Cake

2 cups flour

2 teaspoons baking powder

1¹⁄₂ teaspoons baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

4 eggs

2 cups sugar

1¹⁄₂ cups oil

2 cups grated raw carrots

1(8 ounce) can crushed pineapple in juice, drained

¹⁄₂  cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)

Vanilla Cream Cheese Frosting

¹⁄₂ cup butter 

1(8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened

1 teaspoon pure vanilla

1 lb confectioners' sugar (sifted)

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans or one 13-x9-inch pan. Sift together flour, baking powder, soda, salt and cinnamon. Set aside the dry ingredients. In mixing bowl, using an electric mixer, beat eggs and add sugar. Let stand until sugar dissolves, about 10 minutes. Stir in oil, carrots, drained pineapple and nuts. Stir in dry ingredients and beat until well blended--3 minutes or so. Turn into cake pans. Bake at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes or until cake springs back when lightly touched. Cool in pans about 10 minutes, then turn onto wire racks to cool completely before frosting.

Frosting: Combine butter, cream cheese and vanilla in large bowl and beat until well blended.

Add powdered sugar gradually, beating vigorously. If frosting is too thick, thin with a few drops of milk to spreading consistency.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Follow the Path

Follow the steps of good men instead, and stay on the paths of the righteous. For only the godly will live in the land, and those with integrity will remain in it. But the wicked will be removed from the land, and the treacherous will be uprooted. Proverbs 2:20-22

The land. THE LAND! The land flowing with milk and honey that the Lord had promised to the Israelites? But they were already in that land. Is it THE LAND of heaven…a spiritual land? It seems to me that that is the land to which Solomon is alluding. A place we all want to go someday…heaven. Stay on the straight and narrow path—the righteous path. God has plans for us…

'For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 NASB.

"With weeping they will come, and by supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, on a straight path in which they will not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is My firstborn." Jeremiah 31:9 NASB.

This is clarified more in the book of Hosea…

Let those who are wise understand these things. Let those with discernment listen carefully. The paths of the LORD are true and right, and righteous people live by walking in them. But in those paths sinners stumble and fall. Hosea 14:9.

Be wise and discerning. As always LISTEN. If we don’t listen, we won’t hear the Word of the Lord—those wise words of wisdom given to us to guide our hearts, thoughts and mind to do the right—the righteous—thing. Be warned and listen up. Of course it is the younger generation that really needs to listen—but it is never too late for someone to change their ways and follow Jesus. He has done so much for us. It is a simple act—a choice for each of us to make to follow Him. Where are you going today? 

Prayer ~ Lord, open our eyes that we would clearly see Your path and follow it. Help us guide those around us—especially the younger generation—to follow Your path, too. As always…listening is the key to obedience. Open our ears to hear You loud and clear and may we be alert to make the right choice of obedience…moment by moment. Thank You, Jesus, for Your sacrifice for each of us.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Wisdom Will Save You from Evil People

For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe. Wisdom will save you from evil people, from those whose words are twisted. Proverbs 2:10-12

Oh what a promise to hang-on to for yourself and your family! Wisdom will save you from evil people—and their twisted words. People can be deceiving…and look normal. We have to apply common sense and discernment so that we can see people for who they are. Wisdom will enter your heart—Lord willing and then the knowledge of the Lord will fill you with joy. Jesus said... I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. John 10:10 NASB. Focus on those words—God’s Word—as we go through this season of Lent in preparation and remembrance Jesus’ sacrifice and of Resurrection Sunday.

You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. John 16:24.

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 the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:17.  

Jesus promised joy. An abundant life—lived in goodness and peace with the joy of the Holy Spirit. Spiritual joy that is overflowing from and through the Holy Spirit. That is a pure joy given from God the Father to those who are obedient to Him. Obedience does have its reward. How’s it going for you?

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, continue to guide and direct us that our lives would be pleasing to You. Grant us, through Your mercy, a life that doesn’t have to have “have nots” but one that is given to joyfully providing for others. May these days of Lent—preparing for Resurrection Sunday—be days of spiritual devotion and an abundance of joy.

Ash Wednesday – The Beginning of Lent

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Treasure Common Sense

He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. Proverbs 2:7-9

Are you ready to get the Fat Out with some Shrove Tuesday Pancakes? Yummy pancakes—good anytime of day!

A Treasure of Common Sense. Should be the title for a book! There are some people who just have NO COMMON SENSE! And they do the dumbest things—but then who am I to judge. Other people are just born with an innate ability to make good choices using the most wonderful common sense. Those are people I like to be around. Those are the people that God has blessed—those with integrity who are faithful to Him. “Right, just, and fair” appear several times in the Bible. Here are a couple of them…

This is what the LORD says: Be just and fair to all. Do what is right and good, for I am coming soon to rescue you and to display my righteousness among you. Isaiah 56:1 (Underlining mine.)

This is what the LORD says: Be fair-minded and just. Do what is right! Help those who have been robbed; rescue them from their oppressors. Quit your evil deeds! Do not mistreat foreigners, orphans, and widows. Stop murdering the innocent! Jeremiah 22:3

Our nation needs to pay attention to this verse in Jeremiah—stop murdering the innocent—that would be the unborn. Do what is right. God makes it pretty clear. He repeats it…do what is right. Do people even know what is right? Of course those with common sense do…and they do it.

For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. Can we boast, then, that we have done anything to be accepted by God? No, because our acquittal is not based on obeying the law. It is based on faith. So we are made right with God through faith and not by obeying the law. After all, is God the God of the Jews only? Isn't he also the God of the Gentiles? Of course he is. Romans 3:25-29.

God is Himself fair, just and righteous. He is so generous with us…setting us free from the bondage of sin—the very nature of mankind after the mistake that Adam and Eve made eating the fruit of the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Do what is right—believe. Share this knowledge with others. The time is NOW.

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, Thank You for the lesson on being made right with You—and for Your plan of Jesus sacrificing His life for our sins. We look forward to the cross—and the celebration in 40 days of Resurrection Sunday. Help us to do what is right!

Shrove Tuesday – Get the Fat Out!

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Words of Knowledge and Understanding

For the LORD grants wisdom! From His mouth come knowledge and understanding. Proverbs 2:6

Words of Wisdom. God speaks knowledge and understanding. Ah, to be so graced that we get all three. Ask—Ask—Ask.

I’ve been sick all week—but finally felt like painting today. Nothing like a deadline to get a person going! Here’s what I’ve been working on this afternoon…and just finished. It’s supposed to be a dove—the Holy Spirit—for an Ash Wednesday service. The Holy Spirit was there when Jesus was baptized—He descended from Heaven. When Jesus was taken back to Heaven, He promised that He would send us the Comforter. That is the Holy Spirit who always here for us. Our Comforter, Teacher, our God who gives us strength, knowledge and understanding.  Do you rely on Him?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—fill us anew with Your love and Wisdom. Thank You for always being here for us.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Tune Your Ears

My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God. Proverbs 2:1-5

Wisdom. Listen once again…tune your ears and concentrate on what God is teaching us. Ask for Understanding and Insight…and you will get knowledge about God…and with that Wisdom. Those are much better gifts than silver or even gold.

Tune your ears. Much like we tune in a radio station, we can tune in or tune out whatever we hear. We have the choice…hear it or don’t hear it. Fine tune your ears that you would find the hidden treasure—not garbled—but distinctly clear and true. Do you hear Wisdom calling to you? Are you tuning your ears to hear it?

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to tune our ears to hear Your Wisdom distinctly. Give us a voice to ask for insight and understanding—so that we may be filled with knowledge of You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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

Promise of Peace

But all who listen to me (wisdom) will live in peace, untroubled by fear of harm. Proverbs 1:33

Listen to Wisdom. What a great promise as a reward. Peace—no fear of harm. Who wouldn’t want that? But what does someone have to give up to get that reward? Ignoring wisdom—and where does that get you? The previous verse says…death. That is not just a bodily death…but a spiritual death. The great lake of fire. I chose life. I chose to listen to wisdom and live in peace. To live with peace as promised by the Lord—the Source of all Wisdom. What about you? Everyone makes their own choice. Listen to Wisdom…or ignore it?

Prayer ~ Dear Heavenly Father, give us grace today to hear Your voice calling us to listen to Wisdom—to listen to Your voice and to seek the peace that You so generously promise. Thank You for allowing us to hear Your Voice.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise noted.

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