Glory to the Only Wise God

Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed His plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey Him. All glory to the only wise God, through Jesus Christ, forever. Amen. Romans 16:25-27

What a great benediction that Paul gave to the Romans at the end of this letter.  Hope for all Gentiles. Hope. They can believe in Jesus as God’s Son—this was God’s plan. He kept it a secret until the time was right. The Good News of Jesus had to be given to God’s chosen people, the Israelites, before it was revealed to the rest of the world—the Gentiles, the non-Jews. What a great plan. For God so loved the world—everyone in around world for all time—that He gave (sacrificed) His one and only Son so that whoever believed in Him would have eternal life. Paraphrase of John 3:16. He didn’t establish the sacrificial system just for the Jews—but for the whole world. Some of the Jews embraced Jesus…others rejected Him.

That is still how it is today…some people embrace Jesus as God and obey Him—and others reject Him and the good news of eternal life. Paul declares that we should give glory to God for He makes us strong. Glory, glory, glory. He alone is worthy of our praise. He alone is the wise God. Do you believe and obey Him? Have you experienced His love—His grace—His glory?

Prayer ~ Glory to You, God, for You are my God and a truly wise, loving God. I feel so privileged that You have revealed Yourself to me. Open my eyes and the eyes of my family, friends, and neighbors that we would know and understand You more each day…beginning now. Glory to God through Jesus Christ. Amen.

This would have been my sister, Shirley’s, 68^th birthday.

Happy Birthday, Sis. Miss you and love you much.

© 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.

Are You in a Legal Dispute?

Be Wise - Mend Your Fences and Your Relationships

If you have legal disputes about such matters, why go to outside judges who are not respected by the church? I am saying this to shame you. Isn't there anyone in all the church who is wise enough to decide these issues? But instead, one believer sues another—right in front of unbelievers! Even to have such lawsuits with one another is a defeat for you. Why not just accept the injustice and leave it at that? Why not let yourselves be cheated? Instead, you yourselves are the ones who do wrong and cheat even your fellow believers. 1 Corinthians 6:4-8

People just seem to be ”sue” crazy. If anyone wrongs them, they take them to court. Those same people just seem to wear their feeling on their sleeve—they are so easily offended. Be sure to treat them with kid gloves or they’ll be running to their lawyer. Should we be afraid of a lawsuit? Only if we deserve it…and then we should just be ashamed of ourselves, not afraid of others. Paul is telling the folks at the church in Corinth that they shouldn’t be suing their Christian brothers. Jesus taught that we are to love one another…and is bringing a lawsuit a loving action? He also taught that we are to turn the other cheek. You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. Matthew 5:38-40. Have things really changed much since Jesus or Paul’s time? Think about your actions…how to mend broken relationships rather than retaliate.  

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, help us to consider how we would treat others the way You would treat them rather than doing everything in our won way and our won time. May we show You love in all that we 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.

What Are You Dreaming?

That night the secret was revealed to Daniel in a vision. Then Daniel praised the God of heaven. He said, "Praise the name of God forever and ever, for he has all wisdom and power. He controls the course of world events; He removes kings and sets up other kings. He gives wisdom to the wise and knowledge to the scholars. He reveals deep and mysterious things and knows what lies hidden in darkness, though He is surrounded by light. 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 2:19-23

Daniel got his wisdom from God in a vision at night—and I don’t think his vision was from some strange food he ate for dinner. Have you ever eaten something that gave you insomnia, indigestion or weird dreams? Spicy foods are reported to give people weird dreams—but if you don’t remember the dream then can you really blame it on the food? Sometimes we just can’t recall our dreams—just have a vague idea that disturbs us. It may have seemed surreal to the king, but I think that maybe King Nebuchadnezzar couldn’t remember his dream, so that is why he wanted the wise men to tell him the dream…and what it meant. Daniel did just that because God empowered him to have that ability to explain that prophetic dream.

Daniel acknowledges that the wisdom for the dream interpretation in from God who is all powerful and wise. He praise and thanks God. In verse 27 Daniel begins to explain to King Nebuchadnezzar about the mystery of the king’s dream. In verse 30 Daniel tells the king that the purpose for his ability to interpret the dream is for the king to understand it. Dreams, even after they are interpreted or explained, can be just mysterious.  King Nebuchadnezzar continued to have more dreams. Read on in Daniel for another strange story depicted in a later dream. Have you had any mysterious, prophetic or wonderful dreams lately? Eating any spicy foods that you can blame on those sleepy visions?

Prayer ~ Lord, may You give us all sweet dreams that bring You glory and honor.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel would have avoided the king’s rich foods included fatty meats, alcoholic beverages and those with hidden caffeine, like chocolate. Those rich foods are likely just what the king did eat. Food that help you sleep are those that contain tryptophan, like dairy foods, nuts, seeds, bananas, honey and eggs.  When combined with carbohydrates more tryptophans are released into the blood, so cheese and crackers for a bedtime snack. So choose your favorite cheese…like cheddar (white, yellow, sharp, mild), swiss, mozzarella, provolone, cottage cheese, puti, limburger (now that might instill some strange visions), feta, asiago, Jarlsberg, Castelo Branco, Tzfat, Anejo, or Colby or cream cheese. There are so many from all different countries in the world—and from different animals…cow, sheep, goat or yak. Crackers or toast are the same…too many to choose from. Everyone has their favorite. Enjoy a little snack. Sweet dreams.

© 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

Smile and Be Gracious

You think you already have everything you need. You think you are already rich. You have begun to reign in God's kingdom without us! I wish you really were reigning already, for then we would be reigning with you. Instead, I sometimes think God has put us apostles on display, like prisoners of war at the end of a victor's parade, condemned to die. We have become a spectacle to the entire world—to people and angels alike. Our dedication to Christ makes us look like fools, but you claim to be so wise in Christ! We are weak, but you are so powerful! You are honored, but we are ridiculed. Even now we go hungry and thirsty, and we don't have enough clothes to keep warm. We are often beaten and have no home. 1 Corinthians 4:8-11

Paul was writing to the people at the church in Corinth, specifically to the church leaders there. He was contrasting the way they were exalting themselves and their wisdom with the way the apostles were living a harsh daily life. Not even enough clothes to keep warm. It reminds me of a video I watched recently, “The Shelter” about some homeless people and how they coped…or didn’t cope with their problems. There are people who treat their pets better than homeless people on the streets live. That video gave me some real insight into dumpster diving. People joke about things they find in dumpsters, but they don’t have to live on the food and wear the clothes that they find in those garbage receptacles. Unfortunately, some homeless people do depend on dumpster diving to provide their basic necessities. They may be wondering, “Where is that God who promises to provide everything we need?” Good question. Why does He allow suffering, pain, distress? Why do people make choices to do meth or other drugs that ruin their bodies and their minds? The good mind that God gave them? Can they be rehabilitated? Many people say, "Who will show us better times?" Let your face smile on us, LORD. Psalm 4:6. What can you do to help? Can you provide food or clothing to a homeless person through your church or local mission? That may bring a smile to their face…and give them hope.

Choices. Every day we make choices…moment by moment we choose to honor God with the way we care for this temple He has given us. Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20. Even when we are in pain—from arthritis, a fall, or burned fingers, we need to still focus on God…He cares about us even when we are hurting. He can use that pain to His gain, so don’t bad mouth Him, get discouraged, or blame Him for your troubles. I recently asked a friend who has been a paraplegic for seventeen years for his wise advice to share in this blog. He said, “Always smile.” He is amazing—he has been smiling for all these years…and even before the auto accident that took his ability to walk. He just has a great attitude—but it is by his CHOICE. He chooses to put a smile on his face. He added, “When you meet people if you smile, they’re going to get to know you.” A smile sets others at ease, it encourages them, and gives them hope. Like the hope of a renewed relationship when Jacob and Esau got back together. But Jacob insisted, "No, if I have found favor with you, please accept this gift from me. And what a relief to see your friendly smile. It is like seeing the face of God! Genesis 33:10. Esau’s smile gave Jacob hope…like seeing the face of God.

May the LORD smile on you and be gracious to you. Numbers 6:25.

Prayer ~ Lord, open our eyes to see ways that we can be Your hands and feet…and may Your smile be on our faces—giving hope, encouragement and acceptance to those whose paths cross ours. May we graciously choose to smile. Bless my friend, Mel, that he would continue to smile. He is such an example of Your love and grace. Thank you for his friendship—and the wisdom that You have given 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.

Obedience is Again the Key

For the report of your obedience has reached to all; therefore I am rejoicing over you, but I want you to be wise in what is good and innocent in what is evil And the God of peace will soon crush Satan under your feet. The grace of our Lord Jesus be with you.  Romans 16:19-20

I have been impressed over and over in the last few months the relationship between obedience and wisdom. Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever! Psalm 111:10

Obedience is the key. Jesus was obedient to the Father to the point of death on the cross. Can we be that obedient? I recently heard on a radio program concerning the importance of children’s obedience to their parents. There were three rules to obedience:

1.      Do what you are told.

2.      Do it immediately.

3.      Do it with a good attitude.

Those are pretty important rules. It looks to me that these are the same things that God the Father, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit have been teaching and instructing all along. Even the Hebrew people as they wandered in the desert with Moses were told—follow the Ten Commandments that were given to them. The Israelites were continually told that if they obeyed the commands, they would be blessed and rewarded. If you follow my decrees and are careful to obey my commands, I will send you the seasonal rains. The land will then yield its crops, and the trees of the field will produce their fruit. Leviticus 26:3-4. Jesus spoke to Judas at the Last Supper…go now—do it quickly (John 13:27).

In Romans we are encouraged, by the Holy Spirit, to have a good attitude. 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. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. Romans 14:17-18.

Those three rules to obedience are good ones to teach to children at an early age…so that by the time they are teenagers, they will have obedience ingrained in their character. 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. Good advice to pay attention and follow commands or instructions.

Prayer ~ Dear God…You made me; You created me. Now give me the sense to follow Your commands. Psalm 119:73.  You have shown me again that the key is to OBEY. Jesus was obedient…and that is how I should life, too. A life of obedience. I praise You for revealing that to me, again.

© 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.

Are You Seeking God?

Only fools say in their hearts, "There is no God." They are corrupt, and their actions are evil; not one of them does good! God looks down from heaven on the entire human race; He looks to see if anyone is truly wise, if anyone seeks God. Psalm 53:1-2

Meditate on those verses. That is what David did…and it is useful for us to do the same. The Lord tells us several times throughout the Bible to meditate.

Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. Joshua 1:8 NLT

I will meditate on your majestic, glorious splendor and your wonderful miracles. - Psalm 145:5 NLT

When God looks down from heaven He doesn’t always like what He sees. He looks for good, but consider what Psalm 2 says that He does when the rulers are rebelling and planning a war against Him. "Let us break their chains," they cry, "and free ourselves from slavery to God." But the one who rules in heaven laughs. The Lord scoffs at them. Then in anger He rebukes them, terrifying them with His fierce fury. For the Lord declares, "I have placed my chosen king on the throne in Jerusalem, on my holy mountain." Psalm 2:3-6. I would not want to be the one with whom God is angry. 

Jesus tells us the importance of seeking God in His Sermon on the Mount. So don't worry about these things, saying, 'What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?' These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and He will give you everything you need. So don't worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today's trouble is enough for today. Matthew 6:31-34. Seek God’s kingdom before anything else. Put God first in your life. Seems like a wise move to me.

Prayer ~Lord, You are more important to me than anything. Help me to remember that is a choice that I make moment by moment daily. You—first.

© 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

Are You Grateful?

Give thanks to the LORD, for He is good! His faithful love endures forever. Has the LORD redeemed you? Then speak out! Tell others he has redeemed you from your enemies. For he has gathered the exiles from many lands, from east and west, from north and south. Some wandered in the wilderness, lost and homeless. Hungry and thirsty, they nearly died. "LORD, help!" they cried in their trouble, and he rescued them from their distress. ... But he rescues the poor from trouble and increases their families like flocks of sheep. The godly will see these things and be glad, while the wicked are struck silent. Those who are wise will take all this to heart; they will see in our history the faithful love of the LORD. Psalm 107:1-6, 41-43

God is good. I do give Him thanks—for all He provides for me, for my family, friends and neighbors. Peace, strength, health and healing, homes, clothes for each season, and food—not just nourishing, but every morsel bursting with flavor. He deserves gratitude and love. He created us to love Him—to have a relationship with Him.

God is our shepherd. The Lord is my shepherd…Psalm 23:1. Jesus said…I am the good shepherd; the good shepherd lays down His life for the sheep. John 10:11. That is just what Jesus did for us.

Has He has saved you—redeemed you? Redeem you from what? Bad attitude, disrespecting God Himself or others, rudeness, complacency, the past, sin or just from hell itself? Have you told anyone that He “redeemed” you? Be wise, take to heart. Be grateful for all God provides and has done for you. He loves you. Can you accept His love, rejoice and be glad?

Prayer ~ Lord, I give You THANKS for all that You continuously provide for me, my family, friends and neighbors. We are so blessed. Just as You said in Psalms 1 and 2, Blessed are those who delight in Your law and who take refuge in You. Hide us under your wing (Ruth 2:12)—like the mother hen (Matthew 23:37) and may we seek Your righteousness first in our lives (Matthew 6:33).

© 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.

Their Choices Made the Land Desolate

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

Stubborn hearts—rejecting the wise and kind words of guidance that the Holy Spirit was giving the Israelites. Just like any loving father teaching his children: be kind—play nice. But the stubborn little brats say, “No! I want to do it my way.” Hadn’t they heard of the Golden Rule? "Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you.” Matthew 7:12.  Hardening their hearts towards the Lord was not a wise thing. How often do we do that? Sometimes just a little stiffness. I want to do my own thing…my own way. Just like a three year old--or a prickly pear cactus.

Step back. Deep breath. Focus on the Lord. What do you hear Him saying to you? Justice , kindness, compassion? How will you respond? Like the Israelites—who refused to listen—or are your choices turning your heart towards God? If we don’t choose God’s ways will our land become desolate?

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

Adapted from March 27, 2015 blog.

© 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.

Love Wisdom

Acquire wisdom! Acquire understanding! Do not forget nor turn away from the words of my mouth. Do not forsake her, and she will guard you; Love her, and she will watch over you. The beginning of wisdom is: Acquire wisdom; and with all your acquiring, get understanding. Prize her, and she will exalt you; she will honor you if you embrace her. Proverbs 4:5-8

Wisdom is such a good thing. Solomon was pretty smart to ask God to give him wisdom. I, too, want all I can get. Wisdom is important for both men and women—no difference. A wise man (or woman) will hear and increase in learning, and a man of understanding will acquire wise counsel, to understand a proverb and a figure, the words of the wise and their riddles. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:5-7. Don’t be foolish. Be sure to instill in your children a love for wisdom and understanding.

Family Time Activity – Limit the use of electronic gadget and toys—that includes TV, iPad, and Gameboys. Kids need to read real books and interact with real people—not just machines. Praise them when they make wise choices—in friends and activities. When they are still preschoolers and early elementary students it is easier to help them choose their friends and arrange play dates—but as they get older they’ll start making the choice of their friends for themselves. Hopefully by that time you will have instilled in them values that will help them make good choices. Life is like a cartwheel. It takes time and practice to be really good at it. 

Draw out a map of life—maybe making a new board game of it—showing how an imaginary person makes choices every day and how good choices result in good things happening…and how bad choices in friends and activities may land that same person in jail. That person could be them someday, depending on the choices they make. Wise decisions result in good friends, good activities, fun times and all-round better living conditions. Loving wisdom is a good thing.

Lord, once again I ask that You shower me, my children and my grandchildren with wisdom and understanding. Help us to make good decisions every day.

Adapted from August 11, 2013….

Rejoice and Be Glad –

Happy 90^th Birthday Celebration for one wise lady,

Florence on Whidbey Island.

What a glorious day in the Lord!  Blessings dear one!

© 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 Wisest of Wise

Then the king appointed Daniel to a high position and gave him many valuable gifts. He made Daniel ruler over the whole province of Babylon, as well as chief over all his wise men. Daniel 2:48

Wisest of wise. That’s our man Daniel. God had gifted him with such wisdom and he responded with obedience to God. That obedience resulted in Daniel answering the king’s dream challenge. The king would have executed those wise men for not being able to interpret his dreams. Daniel saved them. One thing that is evident about Daniel is that he was not a proud or arrogant man. Even though he was the wisest of wise men at his time he was still just a humble obedient servant of God.

So how do we apply this to our lives? First if anyone lacks wisdom…ask God. If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and He will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking. James 1:5. Then in obedience we need to be like Jesus, as He said…When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in His love. John 15:10. Wisely love God, love your neighbor and yourself. Can you do that?

Prayer ~ Jesus, give us wisdom to see others as You see them. Help us to walk and live as You lived in obedience to our Heavenly Father and to You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

What is wise food? Well—we need to have food from each of the food groups everyday…carbohydrates, meat or protein foods, vegetables and fruits, dairy (calcium rich foods), and some monounsaturated fats. Probably most important is water, although most people wouldn’t consider that a food. Food nourishes and strengths our bodies—but without water our systems stop functioning. Be sure to keep hydrated during this warm summer weather. It may take more than eight glasses of water a day to satisfy your bodies need for hydration. 

This is the best time of the year for fresh fruit. Pick and serve up some fresh fruit, like these fresh grapes…still on the vine. Enjoy.

© 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.

Death Comes to All

Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind. The grave is their eternal home, where they will stay forever. They may name their estates after themselves, but their fame will not last. They will die, just like animals. This is the fate of fools, though they are remembered as being wise. Like sheep, they are led to the grave, where death will be their shepherd. In the morning the godly will rule over them. Their bodies will rot in the grave, far from their grand estates. But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of the grave. Psalm 49:10-15

Death comes to all–the wise and the foolish.

For the wise can see where they are going, but fools walk in the dark. Yet I saw that the wise and the foolish share the same fate. Both will die. So I said to myself, "Since I will end up the same as the fool, what's the value of all my wisdom? This is all so meaningless!" For the wise and the foolish both die. The wise will not be remembered any longer than the fool. In the days to come, both will be forgotten. So I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling. Everything is meaningless—like chasing the wind. Ecclesiastes 2:14-17.

Solomon was pessimistic about life and death when he wrote Ecclesiastes. All scripture is inspired by the Holy Spirit…All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful to teach us what is true and to make us realize what is wrong in our lives. It corrects us when we are wrong and teaches us to do what is right. 2 Timothy 3:16.  

Empty Boots - Snatched in Rapture or Death?

Solomon was right about one thing…we all will die someday—no matter who we are. There were a couple of exceptions. Ezekiel escaped death when God took him up into Heaven in a chariot of fire. As they were walking along and talking, suddenly a chariot of fire appeared, drawn by horses of fire. It drove between the two men, separating them, and Elijah was carried by a whirlwind into heaven. 2 Kings 2:11. And of course there was Enoch. It was by faith that Enoch was taken up to heaven without dying—"he disappeared, because God took him." For before he was taken up, he was known as a person who pleased God. Hebrews 11:5. It is likely that we will die…unless the rapture happens soon. Only God the Father knows when that will happen. Are you ready…for the rapture…or to face God in death? I’ve been told that we need to keep a short account with God. Ask for forgiveness for our sins on a daily basis…make that moment by moment. I’d call that a short account. We know when we haven’t lived up to what God expects of us…in thought, word or action. Foolish or wise—we all face the same death, but as is written in Psalm 49 we are given a hope of redemption. That redemption has been done by Jesus on the cross—the sacrifice for our sin. Are you pleasing God by the way you live? Are you walking as Jesus walked—and abiding with Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for redeeming my life and giving me hope for the future—an eternity with You. I can leave everything behind to know that as I walk in Your ways now, I will walk with You forever. I praise You and humbly serve 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.

Why Should I Fear When Trouble Comes?

Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, everyone in the world! High and low, rich and poor--listen! For my words are wise, and my thoughts are filled with insight. I listen carefully to many proverbs and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp. Why should I fear when trouble comes, when enemies surround me? Psalm 49:1-5

When the sons of Korah wrote this they were really telling those Israelites to listen up. Actually it was written to not only the Jews, but to everyone in the world. Pay attention to this wise advice. Don’t be afraid—no fear.

What are you afraid of? When I was growing up no one locked their doors—on their house or cars. I’ve noted that there are still a few people around who don’t lock the doors to their homes or cars, but for the most part, everyone locks up. We even lock the doors when we are home. We had a friend who lives in North Las Vegas who had tools stolen out of his open garage when he was in the backyard mowing his lawn. That was gutsy. He locks up tight now no matter where he is. We learned a lesson from him—lock up even when you are home. Although we don’t live in a high crime area, we still need to be cautious. That is wise action for securing our material possessions. How do we secure our spiritual treasures? Is that necessary? Jesus told us in the Sermon on the Mount…Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21. What is your heart’s desire? Are you afraid that someone will try to take away “your heart’s desire” or keep you from getting it? What is your fear? Problems, illness, trouble, death? Sounds in the dark of the night? No food, no money, no love or attention?

No fear…

The LORD is for me, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me? Psalm 118:6

And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we will not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face Him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world. Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced His perfect love. 1 John 4:17-18

Prayer ~ Lord, give us wisdom to look to You—to put our trust in You—and not to fear. You have promised to never leave us or forsake us. You are our hope and our salvation. We love you…with all of our heart, mind, soul and strength.

© 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 Leads to Salvation

You, however, continue in the things you have learned and become convinced of, knowing from whom you have learned them, and that from childhood you have known the sacred writings which are able to give you the wisdom that leads to salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Read Proverbs 8. It has a lot to say about wisdom—the qualities of wisdom, the origin of wisdom and the man of wisdom. Wisdom was established when Jesus created the heavens (verse 27), so it has existed forever! Nothing can compare with wisdom—it is better than jewels or pure gold (vs. 10-11). A person who finds wisdom finds life (v.26). That directly ties in with the 2 Timothy scripture that wisdom leads to salvation—eternal life. What could be more important? When you find wisdom—share it with your children, your grandchildren, other family members, friends, neighbors, co-workers…anyone who doesn’t know the Lord. If it is more precious than gold to you, you may want to keep it to yourself—but this is one thing of great value that you will want to share—and to hope for eternal life for all those with whom you share. Spread the wealth around.

Family Adventure Time – Kids love a treasure hunt. Make up a treasure hunt either indoors or outdoors for your children. You can bury or hide the letters that spell out W-I-S-D-O-M or wrap little treats and treasures (get some trinkets at the dollar store) in the letters W-I-S-D-O-M. Direct the children to the first letter by giving them a clue, like “look under the middle cushion of the sofa” or “find the largest truck and look for a clue on it.” With each letter give a clue to find the next letter. When they’ve found all the letters, ask them what the letters spell.  You may want to do the same for E-T-E-R-N-A-L L-I-F-E and mix up the letters. Then the children have to unscramble the letters to see the message. Read the verse together. Have them each recite a “Wisdom” memory verse.

Lord, give us wisdom and with it understanding. Open our eyes that we can see how to apply this wisdom to our lives and share it—and Your plan for eternal life—with others.

Adapted from August 8, 2013 blog.

© 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.

Jesus Gives Wisdom

Gossips in the Utah desert

Then He said to them, "Nation will rise up in arms against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes, and famines and plagues in various places, and there will be terrifying sights and great signs from heaven. But before all this, they will seize you and persecute you, handing you over to the synagogues and prisons. You will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. This will be a time for you to serve as witnesses. Therefore be resolved not to rehearse ahead of time how to make your defense. For I will give you the words along with the wisdom that none of your adversaries will be able to withstand or contradict. Luke 21:10-15 NET

From where do you get your wisdom? Your father or grandfather, Wikipedia, your daily paper, your Bible, ancient history, or your best friend? Here Jesus is telling us that in the end times He will give us wisdom. The ultimate source of wisdom—Jesus. I look forward to those end time days—even with the promised tribulations. It will be exciting to know that we are in God's planned times—with His hand on us and His words in our mouths. Wise words—witnessing for Him. Let it be! 

 Family Time - Chances are your children already have some ideas about wisdom and wise people. With your family, make a list of all the characteristics of a wise person. Here are a few to get you started: smart, good listener, honest, considerate, doesn't do foolish dumb stuff, makes good decisions, and follows God's word. Then discuss what they can do to be wiser.

Lord Jesus, we look forward to you giving us wisdom in the end-times, but we need your wisdom now—and understanding that we can share the Gospel with others today—not waiting for the end-times.

Adapted from August 7, 2013.

© 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.

Grace Through Jesus Christ

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.'" For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. John 1:14-17

Living Water - near the head of the Jordan River

Can we develop the character trait of “grace” like that of Jesus? This scripture passage tells us that “grace and truth were realized”—obtainable—through Jesus Christ. Jesus was and is full of grace and truth. Full of grace, God’s unmerited favor. Acceptance. Yes, we can show grace, like Jesus, by showing undeserved acceptance. Jesus spoke to the woman at the well—when no one else in society would speak to her—no respectful men or women. That is why she was at the well in the middle of the day. Other women had already been to the well to draw their water for the day. She could not socialize with them. Jesus spoke to her and told her who He was…the Messiah. He was the Living Water. He had not revealed that to everyone He met. He was certainly showing her undeserved acceptance—the very grace of God. Do you show such acceptance of others? How about the homeless on the street, or those begging for money? How about your own children? Do you show them that you “accept” them even if you don’t approve of their actions?

Family Activity – How do you show “acceptance” of your children…and your spouse? Do you give them hugs and kisses every day—morning and night? Do you tell them that you love them…no matter what? Does that include telling them that you love them, but don’t approve of their actions…whatever it was that they did that was not acceptable? In her book, Happier at Home, author Gretchen Rubin suggest that families “Give Warm Greetings and Farewells.” This means stopping whatever you are doing when someone enters or leaves your home and give them a hug or kiss as a warm greeting. Focusing this attention on each other for just a few moments is a great way of showing acceptance—of demonstrating God’s grace and love. Try it and see if it improves the family value of acceptance and grace in your home—and with that the level of God’s love flowing through each of you. It might just become a forever habit for your family…not just a week’s activity.

Lord God, please give us grace to accept the things we cannot change, the courage to change the things we can and the wisdom to know the difference.

Adapted from July 18, 2013…

Happy Birthday, Melissa.

We’re so glad you are a part of our family…and the Family of God! Hugs.

May God continue to bless and guide 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

Enthusiastically Repent

Those whom I love, I reprove and discipline; therefore be zealous and repent. Revelation 3:19

It is so good to be loved. I can’t imagine a world without love…but I know it is there. It is there in the homes with child abuse and neglect…it is there in that sinful sex and slave trafficking that exists around the world. Heaven help us…Lord help them.

Those of us who know the Lord Jesus as our savior are blessed to be loved, unconditionally. With that love comes the correction and discipline that John writes about in this message to Laodicea (Revelation 3:14-22). Correction and discipline are not always pleasant—actually I’ve found them to be humbling. A Christian friend of mine once corrected me…and as an adult I was at first a bit taken aback. How could anyone think that they needed to point out my flaws…much less tell me that I should change my way of treating others. Hmmph. But she was right…and later I thanked her for pointing out to me that I needed to change. That was unconditional love. God loves us just how we are, but He wants us to change and be like His son Jesus. That was how my friend was treating me. Change and do things Jesus’ way. OK. I zealously repented and changed my way. Have you ever been confronted by a friend or the Holy Spirit telling you that you need to repent and change your ways? Take a look inside of you and see how God wants you to change…to be more like Jesus. Then repent of your old ways…and ask God to help you change your ways with a zeal and enthusiasm for the Lord.

Several years ago in the back of an old Bible I had written this definition for sin that was originally from Suzanne Wesley, mother of Charles and John Wesley. “Whatever weakens your reason, impairs the tenderness of your conscience, obscures your sense of God, takes off your relish for spiritual things, whatever increases the authority of the body over the mind, that thing is sin to you, however innocent it may seem in itself.”  So by this definition, sin can be a lot of different things to different people. Ask your children what “sin” is to them. What are their sins that they need to give up…repent? 

Beach life...rocks at Folly Beach, SC

Family Summer Activity – Do your kids know what it means to repent? Gather up some palm size or smaller rocks.  Let the kids each choose one rock and then write their sin…in one or two words…on that rock. Go to a nearby ocean, lake, creek, or river and pray for forgiveness for those sins. Have the children enthusiastically throw their rocks into the water. Those sins will never float back up to the surface…they are gone forever. If possible, let them wade out into the water…and see if they can find their rock floating, drifting or swimming. Very visual and tactile experience.

Lord God, thank you for forgiving us for our sins. As you taught in the Lord’s Prayer…forgive our sins as we forgive others. So help us to forgive those who have sinned against us, too. Thank you for friends who care enough...love enough...to confront and correct us.

Adapted from July 16, 2013…

Happy 3^rd Birthday, Aaron.

Faster than the speed of lightening!

© 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

Veggies for the King’s New Wise Men

Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom. Daniel 1:20

King Nebuchadnezzar evaluated the young Jewish scholars who he’d taken captive from Jerusalem. He found Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah to be the smartest and most capable, so he put them in his personal service. What an honor for them to work for the king—but it put them in a sort of awkward position above some of the local folks. The magicians and enchanters in the king’s realm weren’t too happy to have the king relying on these young foreigners, so they plotted against them. The story of Daniel and his friends goes on—see the next few chapters in the book of Daniel. Do you think that Daniel and the other Jewish young men could attribute their success to their diet of vegetables (see Daniel 1:16)?  They certainly treated their bodies as the Temple of God—keeping it pure and holy. Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20.

Do you like vegetables? How often do you eat them?  The United States Department of Agriculture recommends that we fill half of our plate at each meal with fruits and vegetables. Within that half-plate, more than half of it should be vegetables. What are your favorite vegetables? There are such a variety—especially at this time of the year. Below is a list of vegetables to consider the benefits for your body—the Temple of God.

Prayer ~ Lord, help us to choose healthy foods to eat that would bring You honor and glory. It’s all about choice…food, thoughts, words, and actions. May these all be pleasing to You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel and his friends were used to eating a diet of vegetables—what we would consider a vegetarian diet today. No meat, no wine. Only water to drink. No smoothies. Those would probably raise their blood sugar level too high. Here’s a short list of vegetables and their benefits. What will you eat today?

Artichokes       Cholerectic – good for bile production

Asparagus        Diuretic

Aubergine        Protects fatty membrane cells, good for nerves and brain

Beet                 Decreases blood pressure; anti-cancer

Broccoli           Prevents cancer

Cabbage           Protects heart

Carrots             Protects eyes and heart

Celery              Powerful painkiller; mild diuretic

Fennel              Anti-inflammatory

Kale                 Reduces risk of cancer

Leeks               Lowers cholesterol; fights cancer

Onions             Antihistamine; anti-inflammatory; aids digestion

Peppers            Protects against cancer

Potatoes           Lowers blood pressure

Spinach            Fights cancer – particularly stomach, prostate and ovaries

Sweet potatoes Anti-inflammatory; aids digestion.

© 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, Beauty or Pride?

Son of man, sing this funeral song for the king of Tyre. Give him this message from the Sovereign LORD: You were the model of perfection, full of wisdom and exquisite in beauty. ... Your heart was filled with pride because of all your beauty. Your wisdom was corrupted by your love of splendor. So I threw you to the ground and exposed you to the curious gaze of kings. Ezekiel 28:12, 17

Whoa—wisdom isn’t everything! Pride is not a good thing. It resulted in a funeral song for the king of Tyre—death indeed. Pride goes before destruction, and haughtiness before a fall. Proverbs 16:18.  That was probably eternal death for that king. That same deadly verdict could come to anyone…king or peasant—Wall Street tycoon or farmer—Business owner or coffee hut barista. Pride puts ourselves first—not others…not God.

Beautiful people can be like the king of Tyre—exquisite and a model of perfection in their own eyes or even in others eyes—but not in God’s eyes. I’ve never been a real beautiful, nor have I ever lavishly decorated my home, so I don’t have to worry about too much pride in those areas of my life. I will admit that writing this blog and having it read in so many countries around the world (76 now) has been almost a prideful thing for me. But I realize that the real writing of this blog comes from the Holy Spirit—total inspiration from Him. I can’t take any credit for it—it just flows through my fingertips. That amazes me! How do you see the Holy Spirit working in your life? Are you prideful in any area? Your wisdom, your looks, your home, the success of your career or business? Turn it all over to the Lord—He is the one who deserves the credit—if you put Him first in your life. Priorities.

Prayer ~ Lord, help me once again to see if there are any pride filled areas in my life and to evaluate my priorities. I give You first place—on the throne of my heart. You are worthy of my praise and of kingship within my life—my goals—my very being. Thank you for who You are and where You are. My heart—Your home.

© 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 with Mercy and Love

O Sovereign LORD! You made the heavens and earth by your strong hand and powerful arm. Nothing is too hard for you! You show unfailing love to thousands, but you also bring the consequences of one generation's sin upon the next. You are the great and powerful God, the LORD of Heaven's Armies. You have all wisdom and do great and mighty miracles. You see the conduct of all people, and you give them what they deserve. Jeremiah 32:17-19

                                                                                                                            

This was Jeremiah’s prayer to the Lord when Jerusalem was under siege from the Babylon army and Jeremiah was imprisoned in the royal palace courtyard. He recognized that God has all wisdom. He is the source and sustainer of wisdom.

Power, wisdom, love. Three qualities of God that I see as intertwined and interdependent. Love without power and wisdom is just a limp handshake. Power without love and wisdom is oppressive and unjust. Wisdom without love and power is just worldly wise words flapping in the breeze. The three qualities together give God the ability to miraculously heal physically and spiritually with mercy and grace. Those who don’t respond to God’s invitation to His love and mercy suffer the resulting penalties…and miss out on the best part of God’s love—eternal life with Him. It is the best because it starts right away when someone claims Jesus as their Savior—believing in Him as God’s Son—and ends…never. Eternal life is just that—the never ending enveloping love of God. It is a wonderful feeling to know that I’ve been adopted into God’s family—forever. He will never leave me or forsake me…as He promised in Hebrews 13:5.  Have you been adopted into God’s family?

Prayer ~ Merciful Father, Holy God—I exalt You—for with Your wisdom, power and love You are above all things—emotions, worldly possessions and lofty goals. You are worthy of all praise.

Happy Birthday Blessing, Kathy K. 

May God continue to bless 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

Created and Maintained with His Wisdom

The LORD made the earth by His power, and He preserves it by His wisdom. With His own understanding He stretched out the heavens. Jeremiah 51:15

As I started to write this my husband was watching a documentary about the COSMOS—God’s creation. It is so vast and yet so minuscule. So ingenious, creative, and meticulously created. Amazingly awesome. God is so powerful…and yet humbly gentle. This verse is followed by the verses below.

Jellyfish
God's creation held together with wisdom

When He speaks in the thunder, the heavens are filled with water. He causes the clouds to rise over the earth. He sends the lightning with the rain and releases the wind from His storehouses. The whole human race is foolish and has no knowledge! The craftsmen are disgraced by the idols they make, for their carefully shaped works are a fraud. These idols have no breath or power. Idols are worthless; they are ridiculous lies! On the day of reckoning they will all be destroyed. But the God of Israel is no idol! He is the Creator of everything that exists, including His people, His own special possession. The LORD of Heaven's Armies is His name! Jeremiah 51:16-19.

Our God—the God of Israel and of the chosen ones who believe He is Jesus—is for real. He is not an idol. He is all wisdom, powerful, merciful, just, creator, redeemer, and loving. God is love… But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:8.  No need to worship a powerless idol. No need to spend our time and money on transient fixations. Our passions need to be focused on the giver of life…the giver of eternal life. God is the lover of life and the He makes life worth living—from the beginning to the end. Where do you stand with this God—the true God?

Prayer ~ All powerful and loving God…I praise You for who You are—the wise creator who keeps things going and growing with never ending love. Pure, undefiled, unrequited love. For You are Love.

Blessings and Birthday Happiness to Kathy L.

May God continue to give you His healing touch, as well as His rest and peace. 

© 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

Lord of Diversity

O LORD, what a variety of things you have made! In wisdom you have made them all. The earth is full of your creatures. Psalm 104:24

Have you looked around you and actually counted the number of different animals, especially the variety of birds, insects and spiders that we have in our region. I went for a short hike with friends over the weekend and in just an hour I saw at least six different types of birds—include some beautiful pelicans. And although we don’t have forests of trees in this part of Washington State, we have a huge variety of plants—some of which we just consider weeds. On nearby Badger Mountain where I frequently climb we can see numerous blooming plants all spring. When one group dies off, another type comes into bloom. It is so marvelous.

Badger Mt. Balsam 

When we plan a garden, that is just what we do—have different flowers bloom sequentially so that there are always flowers in blossoming. At least that is the ideal way to design a posy garden. Go beyond our area to the great oceans and we find them brimming with all sorts of wild creatures. God is so creative! Lots of diversity.

Diversity has become key word that often is used as a politically correct expression. God has a corner on diversity—the greatest variety of life goes beyond what we can imagine—even with the weird Star Wars creatures. I think I’ll just go out and enjoy God’s creation and see how many different birds and creatures I can see right in my own backyard this evening. Blessing on each of you as you relax and just reflect on God’s wisdom in His creation.

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, Thank You for the great variety of plants and animals that You created. It is like a rainbow has come alive with the many colors of plants and I find joy in the beauty of the butterflies flitting from flower to flower. The magnificent foods that You designed and that grow throughout our summer are so delightful to our eyes, and to our taste buds. The berries and melons are just scrumptious. I so appreciate and marvel at Your creativity. The diversity of life is beyond words. If this is what we have here…what will heaven be like?

© 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.