Open Mouth, Insert Foot

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:28

Like Mark Twain said… It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt. Consider the writings of the minor prophet, Amos, who warned the Israelites once again not to worship the pagan gods, but to return to worshiping the one true God. Then he wrote:

So those who are smart keep their mouths shut, for it is an evil time. 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. Hate evil and love what is good; turn your courts into true halls of justice. Perhaps even yet the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will have mercy on the remnant of his people. Therefore, this is what the Lord, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies, says: "There will be crying in all the public squares and mourning in every street. Call for the farmers to weep with you, and summon professional mourners to wail.” Amos 5:13-16.

Good advice—keep your mouth shut. I’ve heard some additional wise words…keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut. It is far better to observe and listen before speaking. It goes along with that idiom of putting your foot in your mouth. Oops. That is saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. How very embarrassing. Israel needed to listen to this prophet. God’s army of angels will have mercy on His chosen ones—Israel. Perhaps we all need to listen to this prophet’s advice.

I think I’ll just keep my mouth closed. I don’t offend others that way—and then those around me who are hard of hearing won’t have to ask me what I just said…and I won’t have to yell a response to them. Yelling seems to signify anger…and I’m not mad…or foolish. Most people’s actions speak louder than their words—so hopefully others see Jesus in the way I live. Do those around you see Jesus in you?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, may I keep my eyes and ears open—so that I listen and observe—and keep my mouth shut. I want to honor You in all that I think, do and say…and with my mouth closed I won’t be putting my foot in it.

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

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

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Are You Known for Your Understanding?

The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive. Proverbs 16:21

Wise people, in applying their wisdom and knowledge, get understanding…even from just listening and observing. They respond with pleasant words. Pleasant—that is an interesting word. Like congenial, pleasing or agreeable. A friend of mine, Rebecca, once told me that her Grandmother encouraged her to always keep a pleasant look on her face. Her family was involved in music ministry so she was often on stage in front of a lot of people. Having a pleasant look on her face elicited a good response from the audience. Her Grandmother gave her wise advice—and those words with the love behind them were very persuasive. Rebecca has a permanent happy look—always pleasant—on her face.  I have found if I smile, my whole outlook changes—my attitude even gains a positive countenance. Rebecca’s Grandmother’s advice is good for me, too. Pleasant expressions and words are good. They may even reflect wisdom and understanding.

Are you known for your understanding? Do you use pleasant words? Do you have a pleasant look on your face right now?

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, help me to keep a pleasant look on my face—no wisdom in a scowl. Please allow me to apply Your wisdom to the knowledge I gain day by day so that I grow in understanding and have spiritual discernment. A pleasant look and pleasing words can only come through Your grace and love. I praise You for caring about me, my family and friends, and neighbors. Caring enough to not only die for us…but be raised from the dead that we would have hope—and eternal life.

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

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

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Are You Jabbering?

The lips of the wise give good advice; the heart of a fool has none to give. Proverbs 15:7

Be careful with whom you associate. The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray. Proverbs 12:26. Likewise…Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20. Once again this wisdom shows us that we become like those around us—those with whom we most closely associate. Solomon had more wise advice about friends, associates and speaking.

Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people…. Proverbs 22:24

My child, fear the LORD and the king. Don't associate with rebels…. Proverbs 24:2

When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. ... I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don't even eat with such people. 1 Corinthians 5:9, 11.

Too much activity gives you restless dreams; too many words make you a fool. Ecclesiastes 5:3.

Prayer ~ Dear Lord God, guard my mouth that I would not only speak words that would edify You, but that I would give good advice to those around me…wherever I am… using a limited amount of words so that others hear Your message through me, not just hear an endless jabbering of meaningless words.

© 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

Wise Speak Wisely

From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Proverbs 16:23

Whatever is put into our minds is what comes out. Input=output.

No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths. But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 1 Corinthians 2:11-14.

Wisdom speaks from the Lord…to those who are listening…and that is what those who are listening are going to speak. Input…output. We can’t speak about something that we don’t know about—without looking like a total fool. We need to be careful about what we say. We need to be persuasive to lead others to the Lord.

As I’m writing this post I’m watching a movie—Ratatouille—with a couple of my grandkiddos. Inspiring food movie. It’s not often that I watch animated flix—but this one is really good. Along with the scripture today it reminds me..,It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." Matthew 15:11.

We want to honor the Lord with what we think, do and say. Do wise words come out of your mouth…are those wise words persuasive?  

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus…Your wise words on the cross…after Your resurrection…and especially during Your years of ministry are persuasive for salvation. Healing those physically and emotionally or spiritually sick by just saying a word, “forgiven,” is awesome. One wise word—forgiven. Forgive us, Lord, for not relying on You more…for not listening more closely to Your words of wisdom and applying them to our lives.

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

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

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Easter - Resurrection Sunday...Leave the Grave Behind

The path of life leads upward for the wise; they leave the grave behind.  Proverbs 15:24

What wise advice. I’ve known people who idolize their dead relatives—spending exorbitant amounts of money on cemetery plots, elaborate caskets, fancy headstones and flowers. Then they spend hours of their time visiting the cemetery—some people of other faiths even share meals with the dead on a regular basis. When we lived in Okinawa, there were Okinawans who would bring food daily…or with some families on a weekly basis, to their ancestors’ grave site. Such devotion. It was like having a family picnic with half of the family in a burial tomb. Seemed weird to us. We might take flowers to our families’ graves—but not food. Leave the grave behind. Even Jesus had advice about the death and burial… He said to another person, "Come, follow me." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God." Luke 9:59-60.

Be wise. Follow Jesus’ path of life. Seek first His Kingdom.  

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—Thank You again for Your obedience in going to the cross—carrying my sin and grief—along with the weight of the world’s sin. What a burden—a heaviness—to endure. So that I may walk along Your way with wisdom I once again ask...Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24.

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

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

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Can a Wise Person Deal with an Angry Person?

The anger of the king is a deadly threat; the wise will try to appease it. Proverbs 16:14

Daniel faced an angry King Nebuchadnezzar who had dream that his own wise men couldn’t figure out. With wisdom from God Daniel was able to correctly interpret the dream—thus facing favor from the king and God…I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, for you have given me wisdom and strength. You have told me what we asked of you and revealed to us what the king demanded. Daniel 2:23. We don’t have a king to face in our country—but who is king of your household or workplace? Are there times when he/she is angry? What do you do to appease that anger? Prayer is the best place to start. Continuing to seek wisdom is always admirable.

Today commemorates the Saturday after Jesus was buried. He lay in the grave…in the earth.

The Empty Tomb - Jerusalem

Interestingly Paul wrote to the Ephesians…"He ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things. Ephesians 4:9-10 NASB. As He lay in the tomb, Jesus’ disciples and other followers could do nothing—it was their Sabbath. In accordance with the Commandments they were not to work (Exodus 20:10), so they had prepared the burial spices on Friday after the burial. What a day of mourning that must have been for them all. They probably felt abandoned, deeply sad and hopeless. Have you ever had a close friend or relative die without hope? Those of us who know Jesus as our Lord and Savior have hope—hope for our own resurrection one day—and that as Jesus promised the thief on the cross, we will one day be with Him in Paradise. And Jesus replied, "I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43. Of course, that could also read…I assure you today, you will be with me in Paradise. Where was that comma--of course there probably wasn't one in the original text. As it was translated…it may be interpreted as…today you will be with me in Heaven…or I’m telling you today, that you will be with me in Heaven (or Paradise--when that time comes).  Which do you think it is? Today’s promise…or a pledge today of promise to be fulfilled?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—thank you for all that You gave up…and especially for all that You took on Yourself on that cross. You gave up an earthly life with friends and family…and You bore the sins—the eternal grief—of all humanity on that cross. Each time I’ve had an unkind thought, a bad attitude, or a wrongful comment or hurtful word or action, I’ve added to Your grief—Your burden. Please forgive me—cleanse me from all unrighteousness—and lead me in the path of righteousness—for Your name sake.

© 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.

Sin on the Cross

Good Friday

Wealth is a crown for the wise; the effort of fools yields only foolishness. Proverbs 14:24

A crown was placed on Christ’s head before He was crucified. A crown of thorns—shoved on His head—causing blood to trickle down His face. The wealth of spiritual knowledge—the source of all wisdom, crowned King of the Jews. Striped of His dignity—yet the most dignified, humble and loving man ever to live. Beaten and spat upon by fools…not realizing how foolish their actions were. Yet He had to go to the cross. He had to bear the sin of the world. His Father had a plan that saves even you and me. Jesus became the sacrificial lamb for your sin…for my sin. Without His sacrifice there would be no one in heaven one day. The purpose of mankind—fellowship with God—would never actually happen. As much as we wish that Jesus could have been spared—it was not to be. We can only believe, repent, and be grateful. Do you see your sin on that cross with Jesus?

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father—how it must have hurt You to allow Your Son to take our place on that cross. Thank You for Your plan of salvation—and Thank You Jesus for Your obedience. Forgive our sin. Guide us and bless us as we seek to please You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Good Friday is a day of fasting. How can anyone eat when our Savior and our Friend is hanging on a cross—dying for our sins. Remember Christ’s sacrifice as you take the bread and wine or juice in the Sacrament of Communion.

As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then He broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, "Take this and eat it, for this is my body." And He took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, "Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many." Matthew 26:26-28

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

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT)

unless otherwise noted.

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Confidence in Yourself or God?

The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence. Proverbs 14:16

Avoid danger. Look around you and be cautious. Be careful about being too self-confident. Jesus told a story about two men praying at the Temple—one was a Pharisee with great self-righteous confidence, the other a tax collector, who considered himself a sinner. The Pharisee prayed about how good he was and how horrible the tax collector was. Then Jesus told how the tax collector repented and confessed that he was a sinner. Jesus concluded the story with…I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Luke 18:14. The tax collector was wise in his humble view of himself, whereas the Pharisee was foolish in his inflated self-righteousness.  

Paul and Timothy wrote to the people in the church at Corinth with this message about not depending on their own wisdom. We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. 2 Corinthians 1:12. That way of living—holiness—is sure to please God. That is what my goal in life is…to live in a way that pleases God. By serving Him, I am serving others, too. By serving others, I am serving Him. Not in a reckless way—but in a way that has purpose. Humble, cautious and confident in God.

It was on this day…the Thursday of Holy Week…at the beginning of the Passover, Jesus had His last meal with His disciples in an upper room of the home of one of His followers. As they gathered around the table together Jesus told them of the sacrifice that He was going to make. During that meal He gave them bread and wine and asked them to remember Him. See Luke 22:7-20. When we take the Sacrament of Communion, we honor Christ and what He did for us. He was the sacrificial lamb of the Passover. He willing gave His life for our sin. One day we, as believers, will humbly stand before Him as He intercedes for us with the Heavenly Father. Christ has washed us white as snow—purified us so that we can stand in the Father’s presence.

Will you be among the believers standing with Christ in Heaven?

Prayer ~ Jesus, my Lord and Savior, even now I humbly stand before You—praising You for the sacrifice You made. Thank You for the wisdom that You have graciously given me that I can be cautious and avoid dangers that so often come upon us humans as we go through life. Fill my life with holiness so that I may honor You in all that I think, say and do.

© 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

Build Your Home on The Rock

A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands. Proverbs 14:1

Wisdom is a valuable commodity—one that cannot be purchased with money. Building a house takes a lot of planning and calculations. Solomon wrote…Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house. Proverbs 24:27. Jesus taught those wanting to follow Him that they needed to count the cost of their choice. He compared it to building a building. But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. They would say, 'There's the person who started that building and couldn't afford to finish it!' Luke 14:28-30. Jesus also said…Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Matthew 7:24.

Building a new home takes planning and consideration of so many details—from the foundation,

framing, windows, HVAC, electrical and plumbing to the color of the roofing material, the cabinets, flooring, and finally the paint. So many details. In life we must consider our “home” with God and the detail involved in building and maintaining that home—in our heart. Are you tearing your house down by ignoring God’s plan for your life…and abandoning or ignoring His will and His ways? Do you need to sweep out a few cobwebs? How about painting on a cheerful attitude? These last few days before Resurrection Sunday—Easter—give us an opportunity to put our life in order and reflect once again on what Christ has done for us.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, forgive my lazy attitude as I once again make improvements in my home for You in my heart—a home build on a solid rock. You are the rock of my salvation. I praise You and thank you for Your obedience to God the Father and your sacrifice on the cross for my sin.

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

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

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Are You Learning from Correction?

Only a fool despises a parent's discipline; whoever learns from correction is wise. Proverbs 15:5

This is very similar to… A wise child accepts a parent's discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction. Proverbs 13:1. Same choice…be wise. Be wise…accept correction and discipline. That can be a humbling thing to do. Which is better…to be humbled in submission to doing what is right for yourself and those you love, or to be humiliated by doing something wrong against those you love and should respect? I’m beginning to see that love and respect are involved in all relationships and it is choices in those relationships that show the qualities of wisdom or foolishness. You may think…what difference does it make? It made a difference with Adam and Eve. They didn't choose wisely and their decision still influences us today. For each person their choice ultimately may make a difference between heaven and hell. We all have choices to make. Choose wisely. Don't let that old snake fool you.

Prayer ~ Lord, whether we are old or young, we need Your wisdom to help us make good decision…day by day, moment by moment. We are at Your mercy and plead for Your grace—May it flow through us.

Happy Birthday – Isaac!

Happy Birthday—Aunt Vicky

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

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

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Walk and Speak Wisely

Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20

Walk through this Holy Week in humility, love and gratitude.

So what Solomon…and God…are telling me here is that I’ll become like the friends I choose. Wise friends help me be wise…and with fools for friends, I’ll do dumb things that will cause me some grief. That is just what I tried to instill in my children and now tell my grandkiddos—choose your friends carefully. You can’t always tell a person’s character just by the way they dress—but that might be a starting place. Their mouth—the way they speak is probably the best sign of their values.

Choose your friends wisely.

The tongue of the wise makes knowledge appealing, but the mouth of a fool belches out foolishness. Proverbs 15:2

It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." Matthew 15:11

Watch your tongue and keep your mouth shut, and you will stay out of trouble. Proverbs 21:23

Good advice. Guard your own words—and choose them wisely. Use your words to encourage others and to bring others to the saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, saving everyone who believes--the Jew first and also the Gentile. Romans 1:16

Prayer ~ Lord…May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14.

Birthday Blessings to Kay K.

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

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

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Great is the Lord – Hosanna!

Lent Day 40 - Palm Sunday 

No human wisdom or understanding or plan can stand against the LORD. Proverbs 21:30

This was written long before Jesus entered Jerusalem on a donkey surrounded by a throng of people shouting “Hosanna.” It was even written before He was born—but God the Father had a plan. A lot of people just cannot seem to grasp the plan that God has—for His Son to give His life in sacrifice for our sin. It is beyond normal human understanding…it takes spiritual understanding to accept and apply that to our lives. According to Solomon’s writing here human wisdom, understanding and plans can’t stand up to the Lord’s plan. So whether we can totally comprehend it or not, we can’t come up with a better plan than God. It makes sense to me. I know that my mind thinks lesser thoughts than God. He is awesome and His ways are beyond my comprehension. How great is our Lord! His power is absolute! His understanding is beyond comprehension! Psalm 147:5.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, how awesome it must have been for the people as they honored You, sitting on a donkey, with palm branches strewn across Your path. They thought You were going to save them from the Roman oppression—but it was their own sin from which You were going to save them. They just couldn’t see. Give us spiritual wisdom to see You as our spiritual leader—as our Messiah. Show us Your plan for our lives.

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

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

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Let Your Light of Wisdom Shine

Lent – Day 39 – Two final days of Lenten preparation. Give God your best.

The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death. Proverbs 13:14

Instruction—teaching. That wisdom has to come from somewhere. A former boss of mine, Dr. Dade W. Moeller, wisely wrote “Guidelines for Life – Rules for Success.” It included “When you are near a fountain of knowledge, do everything possible to get thoroughly soaked.” Seek knowledge…seek wisdom. The best place to get spiritual wisdom is from God Himself—accessed by reading His Word. Then discuss it with other Christians. Sharing His Words brings forth the wisdom and allows the wisdom to shine forth—let your light shine.

For God, who said, "Let there be light in the darkness," has made this light shine in our hearts so we could know the glory of God that is seen in the face of Jesus Christ. 2 Corinthians 4:6.

No one lights a lamp and then hides it or puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where its light can be seen by all who enter the house. Luke 11:33.

Arise, Jerusalem! Let your light shine for all to see. For the glory of the LORD rises to shine on you. Isaiah 60:1.    

Accept the wisdom that God offers us all in His Word. Are you sitting at His feet—absorbing all you can from His Word?

Prayer ~ How precious is your unfailing love, O God! All humanity finds shelter in the shadow of your wings. You feed them from the abundance of Your own house, letting them drink from Your river of delights. For You are the fountain of life, the light by which we see. Pour out Your unfailing love on those who love You; give justice to those with honest hearts. Psalm 36:7-10.

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

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

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Words You Don’t Have to Eat

Lent – Day 38 – Last minute Lenten commitment time. What will you do for the Lord today?

Wise words will win you a good meal, but treacherous people have an appetite for violence. Proverbs 13:2

I really don’t like watching television shows or movies with violence and those are definitely treacherous people acting in those programs. I just don’t like violence. I get up and leave the room if others are watching something I just don’t want to watch. It is important to me what goes into my mind—and violent actions are not something I want to replay in my mind.

On the other hand…wise words are wonderful to have replaying themselves in my head. It is true that they can easily be associated with good food…a good meal from good words. It is even more encouraging to think that wise words can win you a good meal…or in another translation… From the fruit of a man's mouth he enjoys good, but the desire of the treacherous is violence. Proverbs 13:2 NASB. When a person speaks kind and wise words then their dinner will settle well with them…and with their dinner guests. Words spoken violently, hastily or with some sort selfish agenda will likely result in bad digestion—for everyone at that meal. That would take away anyone’s appetite—not give them a healthy one. How have your meals been lately?  

Prayer ~ Lord give us grace to speak wisely and kindly at meal times…and always…that we would be encouraging to others and pleasing to You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Winter is almost over, but here is a tasty soup to warm you up during these last cool days before spring arrives.

Gingered Carrot Soup

6-8 medium sized carrots (about 1 pound or 3 cups), coarsely chopped

3-4 medium sized parsnips, coarsely chopped

2 sticks celery, finely chopped

2 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated with a microplane, or finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated

1 red onion, finely chopped

1 quart chicken stock

1 tbsp olive oil

Pinch of freshly ground Himalayan salt and pepper

Garnish with dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream and a sprig of parsley or basil

Saute the onion, garlic, celery and ginger in olive oil with salt and pepper over medium heat. Add the chopped carrots and parsnips. Then add the chicken stock and simmer until the veggies are soft. Then blend into a smooth soup. Garnish as desired. Serves four.

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

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

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At Home with the Wise

Lent – Day 37 – Are you ready for the remembrance of Jesus’ last week…of His sacrifice?

If you listen to constructive criticism, you will be at home among the wise. Proverbs 15:31

At home among the wise. What would the home of a wise person look like? Would you feel comfortable? Would a wise home have no clutter? Would a wise home provide the best hospitality—caring for your every need? Would children in a wise home be respectful, obedient, neat, clean and helpful—never arguing with their siblings? Would you feel the love of the Lord in a wise home?

Listen to constructive criticism. There is more discussion on criticism in Proverbs.

If you ignore criticism, you will end in poverty and disgrace; if you accept correction, you will be honored. Proverbs 13:18.

Whoever stubbornly refuses to accept criticism will suddenly be destroyed beyond recovery. Proverbs 29:1.

It can be humbling to receive criticism or correction, but if it is offered in a loving way—a constructive way—then it is easier to acknowledge and accept. If a person puts that correction into action—that shows wisdom. I admire people who can change their ways due to constructive criticism. They’ve got gumption and courage. Courage to do what is right—even if it is not their initial view. That takes wisdom—and is a blessing from the Lord.

Prayer ~Lord, fill me with gumption that I would be able to receive constructive criticism without having a bad attitude in my heart. Give me your joy—overflowing—that I would be a blessing to others, even when I’ve been criticized. May all that I do honor You. 

Happy St. Patrick's Day - Does your celebration honor the Lord? 

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

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

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Wisdom is Needed in Leadership

Lent – Day 36 – Wait upon the Lord.

Without wise leadership, a nation falls; there is safety in having many advisers. Proverbs 11:14

Ideally the way our government is set up it appears to be very wise. The President has many advisors. But that doesn’t guarantee that things will go well…that the President is receiving good advice from his Cabinet or that he is even following their advice. Wise leadership is hard to choose and that is just what the voters in the US are beginning to do for our next President. Wisdom. Ah—that would be such a blessing for our nation. No one can disagree that wisdom in needed in our leaders. Would anyone suggest otherwise—that we should have unwise leadership—fools as leaders? Somehow, although we don’t deliberately choose such people, fools have been known to be leaders either in the White House or Congress. Let’s hope that in this coming election we don’t have any fools chosen. Fools base their thoughts on foolish assumptions, so their conclusions will be wicked madness; they chatter on and on. No one really knows what is going to happen; no one can predict the future. Ecclesiastes 10:13-14. Listen closely to the politicians chatter. Is anyone showing respect for anyone…even themselves, as they try to put their best foot forward? Wisdom is needed for our country to remain strong…and not to fall.

Prayer ~ Lord God, guide the hearts and minds of the politicians who are clamoring for attention as they vie to receive the responsibility of serving our nation. Give them wisdom that they can provide the leadership that is needed to guide our nation in a manner that will give You honor.

© 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.

Wise Children?

Lent – Day 35 – Only a few more days during this season of Lent. Are you being obedient in your efforts to follow Jesus to the cross…to present your own bodies to the Lord as a living sacrifice (Romans 12:1)?

A wise child accepts a parent's discipline; a mocker refuses to listen to correction. Proverbs 13:1

How many children do you know who are wise? Well, there are some who are obedient. They’ve been trained well, know when they’ve made a poor decision, and accept their discipline…or punishment. Not all discipline is exactly punishment. These are some verses and thoughts I blogged in 2013 when this blog was centered on training tips for parents to consider when encouraging Jesus’ character traits in their children.

There is no fear in love; but perfect love casts out fear, because fear involves punishment, and the one who fears is not perfected in love. We love, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:18-19

Discipline your son while there is hope, and do not desire his death. ...Listen to counsel and accept discipline, that you may be wise the rest of your days. Proverbs 19:18, 20

Share these verses, with your family and discuss the fact that discipline isn’t always punishment, but can simply be training in the right way to act, think or speak. Have your children suggest ways that they should be disciplined for their actions or attitudes. Can you actually use their ideas? Can they listen to your counsel and accept discipline in a respectful manner? Praise your children for accepting discipline if they are respectful and obedient.   

Obedience. It is a quality that can be taught by reward, although some children may need to learn it by punishment. Children have their own individual learning methods—and it is up to the parent to discover that method and help the child apply it. Along that same idea children also have a particular love language that is specific to them. The particular love languages are: Physical Touch, Words of Affirmation, Quality Time, Gifts, and Acts of Service. Read the book, The 5 Love Languages of Children by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell, for details that include parenting tips and guidance. We have to remember that children are children—they need parents (and grandparents to some extent) to love them unconditionally and to be responsible for them as they grow into mature and responsible adults.

Do your children know what you expect of them when you are at home, school, shopping, visiting friend’s or relatives’ homes, restaurants, church, the city park, or wherever? Do you yell at them when they misbehave? But have they been instructed on how to “behave” and the consequences of misbehavior? Consistent discipline includes some training or teaching. If you haven’t ever done any behavior training, then make a list and start today. If the children are really young you may want to do some role playing with their dolls to give them instruction. Once you have let them know what is expected of them comes the hard part—you must consistently hold them to those expectations and follow through with discipline “punishment” that is appropriate for the unmet expectations. Prayer is essential—before, during, and after discipline.  

We all have choices to make—whether we are children or adults. We choose to be obedient to God or not. To allow a child to mock you or God is a sure sign of disobedience and rebellion. How are things going in your relationships—with your children or grandchildren and with the Lord?

Prayer ~ Lord God, may we accept Your discipline…and may our children wisely accept our discipline Give us wisdom as we parent…and grandparent.

Happy Birthday, Kim!

You are a great husband, son, brother, son-in-law and Dad!

May God continue to bless and guide you—as you seek and serve Him.

© 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 With Your Heart

Lent – Day 34 - Today is the day to prepare your heart, mind, and soul so that you would be willing to conform to the image of Christ.

Fools think their own way is right, but the wise listen to others. A fool is quick-tempered, but a wise person stays calm when insulted. Proverbs 12:15-16

A wise person stays calm when insulted! That is pretty strong stuff. Good character. Think about Jesus when He was arrested, tried and then crucified. He didn’t get mad and demand His own way although He knew He was innocent when the guards arrested Him (Luke 22:47-53). He didn’t argue or put up a fight with Annas, Caiaphas or Pilate (John 18:12-40) as He was tried. He willingly carried His cross until (John 19:17, Mark 15:21) the soldiers had someone else carry it to Golgotha, the site of the crucifixion. Jesus listened to others. He heard them calling to Him asking for healing...like the leper in Matthew 8:2-3…like the Roman officer with a paralyzed servant in Matthew 8:5-13…like the two blind men in Matthew 20:30-34…and like the woman whose thoughts Jesus heard and responded to heal her of bleeding issues in Mark 5:25-34. Today Jesus hears our pleas for healing—physically, emotionally and spiritually—and responds. Do we listen to others like Jesus listens to us? Listening without judgment? Listening without our own agenda or solution to their problems? Listening with a caring heart? It is tempting to think that our way is right…but if we listen to others we may see a new way—it may even be a God inspired wise way. Consider listening.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to listen with our hearts, not just our ears. May our eyes show us as much as our ears. Please inspire us with Your wisdom to see what is right, true and good as we serve 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.

Don’t Wander Away

Lent – Day 33 – During this season of Lent what are you willing to sacrifice from your life, attitude and habits to become more like Jesus?

Sensible people keep their eyes glued on wisdom, but a fool's eyes wander to the ends of the earth. Proverbs 17:24

Oh those wandering eyes—they’ll get you into trouble every time. Don’t be led astray by foolish things or let your eyes be blinded.

You must never twist justice or show partiality. Never accept a bribe, for bribes blind the eyes of the wise and corrupt the decisions of the godly. Deuteronomy 16:19

We have a wonderful friend, once a missionary in South Africa and Kenya, who is one of the most ethical people we know. His strong character would not allow him to offer a bribe in Africa whenever the nationals wanted money for favors or travel passage. When my husband Jerry went with Denzil and a few other people from our church to Peru on a Work and Witness Missions Trip, primarily to show the “Jesus” film, Denzil was again confronted with government or transportation officials demanding that a bribe be paid. Denzil stood his ground. Never accept or provide money for a bribe. That is the level of integrity that Denzil set as his standard—it is God’s standard. He is a wise and sensible person whom my husband and I admire. We haven’t been challenged like Denzil to be tested with a bribe demand, but everyone has daily challenges to their integrity. Will you make it through that intersection on the yellow light? Was the change I received back too much? Is that person flirting with me? Should I laugh at that offensive joke at the water cooler? What encounter have you endured that tested your integrity? Were you sensible and kept God’s wisdom in your mind to strengthen you against temptation?

Prayer ~ Lord God, help me keep my eyes focused on Your wisdom—on Your values and Your will that my character would become more like Jesus every day as I 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.

A Golden Glowing Shrine Within

Lent – Day 32 – As you prepare for the final week of Lent and for church on Sunday are you focusing on God and on what Jesus has done for you personally?

Wisdom is enshrined in an understanding heart; wisdom is not found among fools. - Proverbs 14:33

Enshrined. Can you imagine it? I’m a very visual person and what came to my mind when thinking of Wisdom Enshrined in an Understanding Heart was a gold statue standing within a person’s heart glistening so bright that it shone through the person’s body and clothes. Wisdom is treasured in their hearts. So precious that it glowed. Have you ever glowed within because you had something precious in your heart? Perhaps with the filling of the Holy Spirit in your life…your heart? Do you have an understanding heart that cherishes wisdom—cherishes the Holy Spirit—God Himself?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—My Lord and My God, dwell richly in my heart—give me continued deeper understanding of You—that Your wisdom would be enshrined in my heart as I live moment by moment 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

Tasty Words

Lent – Day 31 – Are you making a change in your life for Lent? Is your attitude towards God and your relationship with Him improving?

Wise words satisfy like a good meal; the right words bring satisfaction. Proverbs 18:20

When was the last time you had a really good meal? One that you didn’t walk away from feeling stuffed…or just a bit hungry? One that really satisfied you? I ate recently at Cameo Heights Mansion’s restaurant, The Vine, between the Tri-Cities and Walla Walla, Washington. The Mansion, in a setting amidst vineyards and orchards, immediately provides a relaxed atmosphere.  The Vine’s chef and server presented us with a marvelous seven course meal. Not just good, but tasty, magnificent, inspiring and even intriguing. Each course was prepared with fresh ingredients and creatively plated and served. My mouth waters at the thought of the Pumpkin-Bay Shrimp Bisque. The Fennel Dusted Lamb Chops were also very tasty. The very last “course” was a Good Bye of a delectable chocolate almond candy. What better flavor to hold your palate as the meal ended? As we concluded our evening meal at The Vine we realized that none of us felt stuffed—nor hungry. It was a perfect meal.

Now consider when you have spoken just the right words to someone and you felt really good. How long ago has that been? Were they encouraging words…or a compliment? Has someone spoken words to you that were especially encouraging or uplifting to you? Did it bring them satisfaction? Saying the right word at the right time is a real art. It takes a conscientious effort to express oneself from a tender heart. To be totally effective those words may have needed to have been preceded with prayer—to be inspired by God Himself.  

Prayer ~ Lord God, inspire me with just the right words—wise words. “Let my speech always be with grace, as though seasoned with salt, so that I will know how I should respond to each person.” Colossians 4:6 NASB. May whatever I think and say bring You glory.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Basil is my all-time favorite herb. A couple of years ago I planted lots of basil seeds and reaped a great harvest of basil plants. To save it I made a lot of pesto and froze most of that. I experimented a little and froze some with just chopped garlic and water and some with chopped garlic and olive oil. Both turned out to be tasty, but the olive oil added another dimension of flavor that is good for pesto. Traditionally pesto has basil, garlic, olive oil, and pine nuts ground together. Parmesan cheese can be added when it is served.

Basil Pesto

4 cups packed fresh basil leaves
8 cloves garlic, grated with a microplaner grater
1/2 cup pine nuts or mixture of pine nuts and walnuts
1 cup extra-virgin olive oil, divided
freshly ground Himalayan salt and freshly ground black pepper, about ½ tsp each or to taste
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese or Pecorino cheese (hard Italian sheep’s milk cheese)

Combine the basil, garlic, and nuts in a food processor or blender. Pulse or grind until coarsely chopped. Add 3/4 cup of the oil and process until fully incorporated and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

If using immediately, add all the remaining oil and process until smooth. Transfer the pesto to a large serving bowl and mix in the cheese.

If freezing, transfer to an air-tight container and drizzle remaining oil over the top. Cover with plastic wrap if container has air above the pesto. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and stir in cheese.

Enjoy with pita bread, crackers, chips or fresh veggies for a snack or appetizer. Add to soup, spaghetti sauce or salad dressings. Top chicken, steak, pasta, pizza crust or sandwich bread with pesto, or combine with mayonnaise or butter, for a tasty spread.

© 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

Mockers?

Lent – Day 30 – Only ten days left in this season of Lent. How do you see your relationship with Christ growing or changing?

A mocker seeks wisdom and never finds it, but knowledge comes easily to those with understanding. Proverbs 14:6

Solomon was pretty concerned about mockers. Did he have to endure some mocking—perhaps even from people jealous of his wisdom? Here are a few of the “mockers” verses.

How long, you simpletons, will you insist on being simpleminded? How long will you mockers relish your mocking? How long will you fools hate knowledge? Proverbs 1:22

The LORD mocks the mockers but is gracious to the humble. Proverbs 3:34

Mockers hate to be corrected, so they stay away from the wise. Proverbs 15:12

Anyone who rebukes a mocker will get an insult in return. Anyone who corrects the wicked will get hurt. Proverbs 9:7

The schemes of a fool are sinful; everyone detests a mocker. Proverbs 24:9

Mockers are proud and haughty; they act with boundless arrogance. Proverbs 21:24

Mockers can get a whole town agitated, but the wise will calm anger. Proverbs 29:8

Mockers don’t give much respect…and they get it either. They are those scorners and evil doers that are also described in the Bible. Not only do they not get respect…they get cut off from eternal life with God. As they mock others, they are mocking God’s creation, thus mocking Him. Since they’ve no respect for God they probably don’t want to live forever with Him. How about you?

Prayer ~ Lord God, if I ever have a mocking attitude, show me immediately and give me wisdom to stop that attitude immediately. Help me to be an encourager to others that they would not be mockers either. May knowledge and understanding come easily to me, my family and friends and to our neighbors. May You delight in the attitudes of our hearts and minds as we live to please You—not mocking Your or others.

© 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

Family Joy

Lent – Day 29 – Another day to contemplate what Jesus did for you as He took your sin and carried it to the cross.

A wise child brings joy to a father; a foolish child brings grief to a mother. Proverbs 10:1

Joy—the heartfelt happiness of delight that we all long to embrace in our lives with our family and friends. As a parent we all have hopes and dreams of the joyful times we spend with family members—and yet not everyone has perfect children. Solomon wrote of the joys that parents have…and don’t have.

Sensible children bring joy to their father; foolish children despise their mother. Proverbs 15:20.

It is painful to be the parent of a fool; there is no joy for the father of a rebel. Proverbs 17:21.

The father of godly children has cause for joy. What a pleasure to have children who are wise. Proverbs 23:24.

My children bring me such joy as they are growing in God’s grace and wisdom. They are great parents themselves and are raising their children in the admonition of the Lord—to seek Him first in their lives. Those grandchildren are precious in my sight…and more importantly in the Lord’s eyes.

Prayer ~ Lord, may the children of my friends and neighbors bring them as much joy as the joy You have blessed me with in my children and grandchildren. I delight in You and your plans for families.

© 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 in Correction

Lent – Day 28 – Only twelve more days in this forty days in Lent…and then Holy Week as we approach the cross with Jesus.

So don't bother correcting mockers; they will only hate you. But correct the wise, and they will love you. Proverbs 9:8

How do you feel about being corrected? It is a humiliating experience—but one from which you can grow and gain wisdom about God and about yourself.  

Have you ever had to correct someone else…other than your children or grandchildren? Mockers—those who ridicule and scoff anyone—will only reject any admonishment and the one providing the rectification. They’ve no respect for others or their advice. There is no use in even trying to correct them. Solomon says to not bother—but where there is hope, someone may come to the Lord. There is hope in the Lord…hope in wisdom. Do you have hope?  

Prayer ~ Lord, may we be accepting of correction—give us wisdom to see things as You do and be willing to change so that we live in a manner that is pleasing 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

Learn From the Wise Ants

Lent – Day 27  The time of preparation is moving along as we draw closer to the cross. Are you preparing yourself?

Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways and become wise! Proverbs 6:6

The Aesop’s Fable about the ant and the grasshopper is one of my favorites. The ant is a wise, hard-working character. God Himself gave us this example—take a lesson from the ants. Near where my family and I go camping there are a couple of huge ant mounds made of bits of bark and pine needles. We always like to check on those ant “hills” that are actually at least three feet tall. There are “highways” of ant trails that lead away from and back to the ant hills and we like to watch the ants go along those highways carrying their woodland treasures to their home. Once the kids put a marshmallow on top of their hill to see what they would do. It was still there a couple of days later. They are pretty wise insects—they want real food—not just sweets. No grasshoppers sitting around near our camp, but I’m sure they are not storing up food there the way that the ants were.

In a similar manner, watch the behavior of some teens especially during the late summer months. A wise youth harvests in the summer, but one who sleeps during harvest is a disgrace. Proverbs 10:5. Young people need to be taught work values early in life. By the time they are teens their work ethics and habits have already been deeply instilled. Teach your children well. Remember that your actions speak louder than words. Wise words bring many benefits, and hard work brings rewards. Proverbs 12:14. Hard work brings rewards, whether it is a cupboard full of food or a mind full of memory verses—God rewards those who work for Him. Learn from those hard-working ants and become wise.

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, show me more of Your wisdom that I would become a wise person—just as the ants are wise.

© 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.

Jealousy is Dangerous

Lent – Day 26  - Are you jealous of anyone or anything?

For jealousy and selfishness are not God's kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and demonic. James 3:15

For wherever there is jealousy and selfish ambition, there you will find disorder and evil of every kind. James 3:16

When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures, idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division, envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God. Galatians 5:19-21.

Anger is cruel, and wrath is like a flood, but jealousy is even more dangerous. Proverbs 27:4.

So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. 1 Peter 2:1.

Wise advice—wisdom from the Lord. It appears that evil abounds where there is jealousy and selfish ambition. Those are not found in the Lord and are indeed demonic. Those are qualities that will keep one out of the Kingdom of God…out of heaven.

What do you see in these Heavenly Clouds?

The opposite of jealousy is love and of selfishness is selflessness. Love and selflessness are qualities of Jesus Himself. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I seek Your Kingdom first and foremost in  my life—in all I do and say—with all my heart, soul and strength. Please pour out Your Wisdom on me, on my family and friends, and on my neighbors that we would live a life pleasing 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