Honor the Lord

Teach me your ways, O LORD, that I may live according to your truth! Grant me purity of heart, so that I may honor you. Psalm 86:11

Studying the Bible is the key to Honoring God.

To honor God—that is the goal of my life…my existence. It hasn’t always been. I wanted to help people and cure the world of cancer…great goal and it could have honored God along with curing people of a horrific disease, but I wanted it for my glory. Look what I did. I didn’t do that. When it got right down to figuring out how to go about that, I didn’t have the self-confidence to really pursue my dream. Along the way I’ve learned to seek God’s way for my life—and live…or try to live…according to His truth. Jesus IS the way, the truth and the life. In a discussion with His disciples He told Thomas…

Jesus told him, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me." John 14:6

Jesus is willing to teach us His ways so that we can live according to His truth. The best place to start is by reading…but not just skimming, but really studying and learning the Bible. Do you read your Bible every day? I’ve been trying to do a Daily Bible Reading, but I will admit I’m a few days behind. I’ll catch up soon. I plan to finish out this year and celebrate having read the entire Bible! Then on January 1, 2018, I’ll start again. I’ve really enjoyed this chronological study. May I challenge you to join me as I read the Bible through again? There is always something new that the Holy Spirit shows me…even if I’ve read a passage a dozen times. What has the Lord been showing you in His word? How have you applied that to your life? Are you sharing that with someone?

Prayer ~ Lord, please continue to reveal Yourself to me as I study Your Word. Teach me Your ways so that I may live according to Your truth. Give a pure heart that brings You honor and glory.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 5-8

Happy Birthday to Vicki in Heaven.

© 2017 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

God's Blessing on Israel

And I will give you a new heart, and I will put a new spirit in you. I will take out your stony, stubborn heart and give you a tender, responsive heart. Ezekiel 36:26 

Pray for all of Israel

A Request Posted in Jerusalem.

What a great promise! A new heart—tender, responsive. A new heart would be like Christ’s heart. Loving, compassionate, considerate. The new spirit will surely be an infilling of the Holy Spirit.

But, read this text in context. It is always important to understand the context of what is written. God is talking about when He will bring His people back into the land of Israel. That is just what has been happening for there for the last fifty years.

Therefore, give the people of Israel this message from the Sovereign LORD: I am bringing you back, but not because you deserve it. I am doing it to protect my holy name, on which you brought shame while you were scattered among the nations. I will show how holy my great name is--the name on which you brought shame among the nations. And when I reveal my holiness through you before their very eyes, says the Sovereign LORD, then the nations will know that I am the LORD. For I will gather you up from all the nations and bring you home again to your land. "Then I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean. Your filth will be washed away, and you will no longer worship idols. Ezekiel 36:22-25.

This is exciting. We may all want “a new heart” and that promise is given to us as we ask, like David did…Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Psalm 51:10. This promise in Ezekiel is for the Israelites who have been scattered around the world. Now they are coming back to their homeland…back to the Promised Land of Israel…back to God. May He bless them as they turn their hearts towards Him.

Prayer ~ Lord God, Bless Your people, Israel. We rejoice in their homecoming and the fulfilling of Your prophesy. They are Your people.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1-4 

© 2017 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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To the Religious Men of Athens

So Paul, standing before the council, addressed them as follows: "Men of Athens, I notice that you are very religious in every way, for as I was walking along I saw your many shrines. And one of your altars had this inscription on it: 'To an Unknown God.' This God, whom you worship without knowing, is the one I'm telling you about. He is the God who made the world and everything in it. Since he is Lord of heaven and earth, he doesn't live in man-made temples, and human hands can't serve his needs—for he has no needs. He himself gives life and breath to everything, and he satisfies every need. Acts 17:22-25 

Can a person be religious and not believe in God? Sure…even now we have many religions that don’t believe in God. In an Internet search of various sites I found that the top five religions in the world today are Christianity (33%), Islam (21%), Hindu (13%), Buddhist (6%), and Chinese religions (6%). Additional religions include Primal religions (6%), Sikhism (0.4%) and Judaism (0.2%) and then of course, there is a group people considered Non-religious (16%). Christianity and Judaism are the only ones in this list of top eight that worship God as the creator, sustainer, provider, and savior of mankind--the Messiah. Christianity is exclusive in worshipping a God who has been resurrected from the dead.

In Paul’s time the Greeks worshipped many gods and loved to debate and learn facts about them. Paul was able to teach some of the Greek leaders, as well as women and men of the community, about Jesus and His resurrection. Some laughed. A number of those listening to Paul became believers and others were eager to hear more about Jesus at a later time. This “unknown” god became a very real God to those who believed. Who is He to you? Could you have defended Jesus Christ as the “unknown” god as Paul did? What scripture would you use to persuade others to learn about Jesus?

Prayer ~ Jesus, open our eyes and hearts to opportunities to share the facts of Your death and resurrection. Help us to live our Christianity is such a way that others will be curious and want to know more about You.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 18-19

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Pleasing the Holy Spirit

Don't be misled—you cannot mock the justice of God. You will always harvest what you plant. Those who live only to satisfy their own sinful nature will harvest decay and death from that sinful nature. But those who live to please the Spirit will harvest everlasting life from the Spirit. So let's not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don't give up. Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone—especially to those in the family of faith. Galatians 6:7-10 

Plant and harvest. You get what you plant…plant tomatoes, harvest tomatoes. Plant basil, harvest basil, not wheat. That is pretty logical. There’s some essentially basic and yet wise advice about planting and harvesting in the Bible.

And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:18.

Plant the good seeds of righteousness, and you will harvest a crop of love. Plow up the hard ground of your hearts, for now is the time to seek the LORD, that he may come and shower righteousness upon you. Hosea 10:12. 

Seeds of peace reap righteousness and that results in love. Harvest righteousness…and then plant it—how do you do that? Does it grow on a bush or a tree in your heart? Righteousness is right living before God, with integrity, virtue and purity of life. That is all goodness, pleasing to the Holy Spirit—God Himself. Doing good. It warms my heart to see and hear of others, doing good. I love it when I see others in my Church family hugging and helping fellow brothers and sisters in the Lord. We naturally see lots of love sharing around this time of Thankfulness and the Remembrance of Christ’s birth, but I see it in my Church family all year around. Don’t get tired of doing good—that in itself is a blessing. So choose to keep on doing good…blessing others by pleasing the Holy Spirit. 

Prayer ~ Lord God, provide opportunities for each of us to “do good” and help us not to be misled. Open our eyes to show us what we are “planting” and “harvesting” for we want to live to please You.

Daily Bible Reading: 1 & 2 Thessalonians

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Prisoner of Sin...from the Law?

Is there a conflict, then, between God's law and God's promises? Absolutely not! If the law could give us new life, we could be made right with God by obeying it. But the Scriptures declare that we are all prisoners of sin, so we receive God's promise of freedom only by believing in Jesus Christ. Galatians 3:21-22  

Are you a captive behind this door?

A prisoner of sin?

Prisoners of sin. Do you feel like you are a prisoner—held captive by sins? Sins are actions that are disobedience to the law is some way or another. As I see it…and actually as Jesus taught…the summarizations of the Ten Commandments is…And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength.' The second is equally important: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' No other commandment is greater than these." Mark 12:30-31. Sin all boils down to breaking those Commandments. God’s promise of freedom is Jesus…or believing in Jesus Christ as the Son of God…and as our Savior. He saves us…sets us free from being prisoners of sin. What a marvelous idea…a plan…the promise for mankind.

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18

God loves us. We may feel unlovable…but He cares about us anyway. Let Him love you. Have you received God’s promise of freedom? 

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father - Thank You for Your promise of freedom. It is so simple to just believe…but like the young father  that Jesus encountered…help  my unbelief.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 17

© 2017 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Hold Your Tongue?

Dear brothers and sisters, not many of you should become teachers in the church, for we who teach will be judged more strictly. Indeed, we all make many mistakes. For if we could control our tongues, we would be perfect and could also control ourselves in every other way. We can make a large horse go wherever we want by means of a small bit in its mouth. And a small rudder makes a huge ship turn wherever the pilot chooses to go, even though the winds are strong. In the same way, the tongue is a small thing that makes grand speeches. But a tiny spark can set a great forest on fire. And the tongue is a flame of fire. It is a whole world of wickedness, corrupting your entire body. It can set your whole life on fire, for it is set on fire by hell itself. People can tame all kinds of animals, birds, reptiles, and fish, but no one can tame the tongue. It is restless and evil, full of deadly poison. Sometimes it praises our Lord and Father, and sometimes it curses those who have been made in the image of God. And so blessing and cursing come pouring out of the same mouth. Surely, my brothers and sisters, this is not right! James 3:1-10  

My tongue often gets me into trouble. I speak without thinking, voicing my opinion--maybe finishing others sentences without regard to what they're really meaning. Oops. Actually rude. Are my thoughts any more important or pertinent than others? Certainly not more creative, original or righteous than others. How does one "tame" their tongue? In the past I've struggled with some cussing. I grew up on a farm and had a friend who cussed like an old ranch hand--what a horrible habit for me to pick-up. At any rate it was still a struggle after I became a Christian and then I learned the concept of "renewing my mnd." It wasn't just my tongue than needed to be controlled--my mind needed to be renewed--sort of like rebooting your computer. God was gracious--and did just that for me. 

     - Don't use foul or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them. Ephesians 4:29. 

     - Therefore I urge you, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that you may prove what the will of God is, that which is good and acceptable and perfect. Romans 12:1-2 NASB

It says in the NLT...Don't copy the behavior of this world....

Let your mind be transformed. Be like those transformer cars or even like ancient statues that reveal a different form or character. The mind controls the body...and with God's help...the heart will be respected...and respectful. That could lead to a controlled tongue, and that is a beautiful thing--worthy of God's attention. 

Prayer - Lord - give me grace to speak kindly to others...and to love them as I love myself. Tame my tongue. Transform my heart and my mind to be pleasing to you. Daily Bible Reading: Galatians 4-6

                                           HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY - ANDREW!

© 2017 Text and Photos 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 Can You Endure?

God blesses those who patiently endure testing and temptation. Afterward they will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love him. James 1:12

        Seattle Rush Hour Traffic at a Snail's Pace

Endure. Consider how you feel when you have to wait in a long line or a slow traffic jam. I get anxious--even though scripture teaches that we should not be anxious.

     - Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. Philippians 4:6 NET

Patiently endure. When we recently visited Seattle and we're stuck in rush hour traffic--I was glad I was NOT driving. Somehow it is easier to "patiently endure" when I'm not in the drivers seat. Can that be applied spiritually? Amazingly enough when I allow Jesus to be the "driver" of my life then I'm not so anxious. Yes. Realizing that is amazing. Jesus can be in control. It is our choice--choose Jesus--choose less anxiety. 

Endurance for those who love God seems to be of utmost importance. God has promised eternal life AND a crown...to those who love Him and patiently endure testing and temptation. That is difficult. Subconsciencely we strive to be the Best...the first...at least I have found this for myself. I am after all a competitive person. Is this a test for me...to be less competitive? Yet..."I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13.. All things...whether it means resisting temptation of eating a sweet I know I shouldn't have or going somewhere earthly temptation is strong. Flee from evil and evil apperarances. God has promised not only eternal life, but a crown of life to those who love Him. Do you love God? Do you love God with all your heart soul mind and strength? Patiently endure testings and temptations. 

Prayer ~ Lord teach me to patiently endure the trials and temptations before me. 

Daily Bible Reading: Galatians 1-3

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

After a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner a dear friend, Florence, shared a favorite recipe of hers. It was famous at Commander's Palace in New Orleans.

Seafood Sauce

1 cup catsup

1/4 cup cream style horseradish sauce

1/8 to 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

Brown sugar to taste 

Mix together and serve with shrimp or any seafood.

Happy Birthday, Marv.

© 2017 Text and Photos 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 Thankful?

               And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts. Colossians 3:15-16

Rule.  What does that mean to you? With our democratic government and freedom here in the United States we don't have as strong a concept of kingship. Although we should show respect to our elected government officials,we don't bow down to a king. Does that make the idea of honoring Jesus as KING of KINGS in our heart more difficult? We all have the choice to make. Who is on the "throne" of your heart? Are we in charge...or is Jesus? Do we want to do things our way or the way that Jesus taught which is basically to love the Lord or God with all our heart..and to love our neighbor as ourselves? The choice is ours. 

It is our annual Day of THANKSGIVING. There are many passages if scripture that encourage us to be thankful.

-          Devote yourselves to prayer with an alert mind and a thankful heart. Colossians 4:2

-          Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:18

-          Since we are receiving a Kingdom that is unshakable, let us be thankful and please God by worshiping him with holy fear and awe. Hebrews 12:28

Budapest at night. Royal beauty--do you honor Christ as if He were in the in the palace--on the throne of your heart?

Worship God--respectfully. I think that includes letting Him rule in our hearts...and minds. Thankfully.

Prayer ~ Thank You Jesus...for life and Your love that permeates our hearts and minds. May all that we that we think, say and do bring glory and honor toYou and to our Heavenly Father. Personally, today I am singing with a thankful heart.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 15-16

                                                    Happy Thanksgiving to everyone!  

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Troubles?

Dear brothers and sisters, when troubles come your way, consider it an opportunity for great joy. For you know that when your faith is tested, your endurance has a chance to grow. So let it grow, for when your endurance is fully developed, you will be perfect and complete, needing nothing. James 1:2-4

                                                       Along the Rhine River.

WHEN your faith is tested your endurance has a chance to grow. Not IF your faith is tested...but WHEN. So be prepared. Your faith WILL be challenged or tested. It is like endurance is a seed planted in the ground...cared for by watering it...and providing food. Endurance if given a chance WILL grow to maturity. That's about the time we die...having become perfect and complete. Jesus was the only "perfect" individual. We can only attain His perfection when we go to live with Him forever in Heaven. I look forward to that day. For the time being...endure.

Therefore, having been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom also we have obtained our introduction by faith into this grace in which we stand; and we exult in hope of the glory of God. And not only this, but we also exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us. - Romans 5:1-5 NASB

Rejoice and be thankful...with great joy...because your endurance is growing. God has found you worthy of His attention.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Give us grace that we would express joy when we have trials and when part of our church or Christian body around the world suffers discrimination or persecution.

Daily Bible Reading: James

Happy Birthday, Barry!

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Herod Was Wormy--NOT a god.

 Now Herod was very angry with the people of Tyre and Sidon. So they sent a delegation to make peace with him because their cities were dependent upon Herod's country for food. The delegates won the support of Blastus, Herod's personal assistant, and an appointment with Herod was granted. When the day arrived, Herod put on his royal robes, sat on his throne, and made a speech to them. The people gave him a great ovation, shouting, "It's the voice of a god, not of a man!" Instantly, an angel of the Lord struck Herod with a sickness, because he accepted the people's worship instead of giving the glory to God. So he was consumed with worms and died. Meanwhile, the word of God continued to spread, and there were many new believers. Acts 12:20-24

     Give me a kingdom of worshippers--and beautiful flowers.  Is this what Herod wanted? 

Several times we read in scripture that Peter and Paul were "worshiped" by people--but the both vehemently denied that declaring that they were only human. Not Herod. Unlike Paul and Peter, Herod adored being worshipped--receiving the praise of men.  

For by the grace given to me I say to every one of you not to think more highly of yourself than you ought to think, but to think with sober discernment, as God has distributed to each of you a measure of faith.  Romans 12:3 (NET)

Think more highly of others than yourself...that is like "love your neighbor as yourself." Such wisdom. If Herod had thought to please God...instead of seeking glory from men, then God may not have struck him will illness and worms.  Ugh! We have similar choices to make. Please God or go for glory from other people. What will it be for you today?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, help us to make good choices today and choose to serve You with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. 

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 13-14

© 2017 Text and Photos 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. 

No Favoritism

…Peter replied, "I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all." Acts 10:34-36

For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. God sent his Son into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through him. "There is no judgment against anyone who believes in him. But anyone who does not believe in him has already been judged for not believing in God's one and only Son. John 3:16-18
God's plan from the beginning was to love everyone--that is the whole world--not just the Jews or not just those He created in th e a Garden of Eden...but everyone around the earth through all time and eternity. It turns out that that is an enormous number of people. He is a big God with enough love foe everyone. As Luke recorded here in the book of Acts--God doesn't have favorites. We know He has His "chosen" people--the family of Abraham--the Jews--but He doesn't love the non-Jews any less. God gave the Jews knowledge so that through the ages knowledge and understanding of Him would survive. And yet the Jews have been probably the most persecuted of all people. Peter tells us here that the message of the Good News--that Jesus is the Messiah--the Christ--the Son of God--is to bring peace to the Jews. Since He has no favorites--may we all be blessed with His peace through His Son, Jesus Christ. 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus--help us to do what is right in Your eyes--all that is kind and good. Shower us with that peace that passes all understanding.   

      And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.  Philippians 4:7 (NET)

That is God's deep abiding peace  I am filled with thankfulness for Your love, joy and especially Your peace in my life. Glory be to the Father. 

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 11-12

                               Happy Birthday, Sylvia

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Come As Soon As Possible

There was a believer in Joppa named Tabitha (which in Greek is Dorcas). She was always doing kind things for others and helping the poor. About this time she became ill and died. Her body was washed for burial and laid in an upstairs room. But the believers had heard that Peter was nearby at Lydda, so they sent two men to beg him, "Please come as soon as possible!" So Peter returned with them; and as soon as he arrived, they took him to the upstairs room. The room was filled with widows who were weeping and showing him the coats and other clothes Dorcas had made for them. But Peter asked them all to leave the room; then he knelt and prayed. Turning to the body he said, "Get up, Tabitha." And she opened her eyes! When she saw Peter, she sat up! He gave her his hand and helped her up. Then he called in the widows and all the believers, and he presented her to them alive. The news spread through the whole town, and many believed in the Lord. Acts 9:36-42  

Peter—please come as soon as possible! Dorcas was so respected and revered in her community. And she should have been for helping the poor and doing kind things for others.. What a worker for the Lord. Sewing in those days must have been hard work—no electric sewing machines and consider that their fabrics were probably much courser than ours today, and the sewing needles may not have been as strong and sharp. Hmmm. Sounds like that lady had strong fingers and gumption. Gumption—there’s a word for you. Determination. Persistence. Dedication. Yes. All of the above. Now at Dorcas’ untimely death, her church family and community were missing her. Send for Peter. Surely he can help—Jesus raised people from the dead—he can, too. And so in prayer Peter did just that. Dorcas lived again. What a rejoicing they had—a great time of Thanksgiving. We may not have had such miraculous transformations in our lives—but we can all recognize how powerful prayer can be. Relationship and communication with God has not changed in the over 2000 years since Peter prayed. God still hears our prayers. Several times Jesus taught His disciples about prayer. This one below recorded in Mark deals with faith and doubt. No doubt for Peter when it came to raising Dorcas back to life.

Then Jesus said to the disciples, "Have faith in God. I tell you the truth, you can say to this mountain, 'May you be lifted up and thrown into the sea,' and it will happen. But you must really believe it will happen and have no doubt in your heart. I tell you, you can pray for anything, and if you believe that you've received it, it will be yours. But when you are praying, first forgive anyone you are holding a grudge against, so that your Father in heaven will forgive your sins, too." Mark 11:22-25 

No sin—no doubt. These are keys to good communication with God. Are you praying directly to God or expecting Peter to “come as soon as possible” to pray for you? 

Prayer ~ Jesus, forgive me for doubting the power of my prayers. I trust you with each of my family, friends and neighbors today that You will touch their lives—healing, strengthening, and protecting them, as well as helping them to make good decisions. 

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 9-10

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Is Your Heart Christ’s Home?

Here’s part of Stephen’s sermon…
"David found favor with God and asked for the privilege of building a permanent Temple for the God of Jacob. But it was Solomon who actually built it. However, the Most High doesn't live in temples made by human hands. As the prophet says, 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. Could you build me a temple as good as that?' asks the LORD. 'Could you build me such a resting place? Didn't my hands make both heaven and earth?' "You stubborn people! You are heathen at heart and deaf to the truth. Must you forever resist the Holy Spirit? That's what your ancestors did, and so do you!” Acts 7:46-51 

God doesn’t make His home in temples made by human hands. His home is in the heart and souls of those who believe in Him as their Lord and Savior. 

I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong. Ephesians 3:16-17

Mud House built in early 1900's - Jeske Family Home

Is your heart a welcome site--or vacant and empty home?

It seems that this scripture in Ephesians is the only one that talks about Christ—God Himself—making His home in your heart. For many years I’ve contended that it is really the Holy Spirit that comes to live in our hearts—but since the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are one, I guess that is just nitpicky. God is there if we request Him to be part of our lives. He is a gentleman and doesn’t go where He is not wanted or invited. As this scripture today encourages us…don’t resist the Holy Spirit…don’t be a heathen at heart or deaf to the truth.

Jesus said to the people who believed in him, "You are truly my disciples if you remain faithful to my teachings. And you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." John 8:31-32 

Believe and be set free—free from sin. Free to understand the truth. Free to embrace the hope that Jesus gives us. Free to share His love and grace with others. That’s life—freedom to love and be loved.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You built a wonderful place in my heart—just for You. Live there and give me the grace to love others for You—not to put myself first. Daily show me more of Your truth—at a deeper depth. I praise You and thank you for Your love, mercy and creativity.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 7-8

© 2017 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Follow Advice

But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, "We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word." Acts 6:1-4

Rumblings of discontent. Have times never changed? Are there rumblings of discontent among your church? From time to time I think all churches experience that. Right now our church is rumbling—but not with discontent. Due to health issues within her family our Pastor is planning to step down as the main pastor—so our church must begin a search for a new pastor. We’re sad to say good-bye to our wonderful pastor and shepherd, her husband and sweet mama. Rumblings. Sad rumblings. 

Reenactment of Jesus teaching His Disciples

The way that the apostles handled their rumbling of discontent was wonderfully miraculous. They delegated. Wise move. That way they could focus on prayer and teaching. Those were important things to Jesus…so they must be priority to the apostles as well.

Look back at Moses time. He was having to spend a lot of time of time dealing with people issues. His father-in-law, Jethro, a Midian priest, gave Moses good advice to chose a man from each tribe—one who fears God and hates bribes—to help carry the load and thus assist to solve the people’s common disputes. See Exodus 18:13-27, with the key verse…Moses listened to his father-in-law's advice and followed his suggestions. Exodus 18:24. He followed Jethro’s advice.

At the time of Acts, the apostles didn’t want to spend their time dealing with disputes and running a food program—but instead they wanted to focus on connecting with God in prayer and teaching new believers—connecting them to God’s will and ways. Teaching them to be obedient. Obedience is the key. Listen and obey.

If you listen to these regulations and faithfully obey them, the LORD your God will keep his covenant of unfailing love with you, as he promised with an oath to your ancestors. Deuteronomy 7:12

Listen and obey. That is what is happening when a person follows wise advice. Are you willing to follow the advice of others? Of course, check to make sure it is wise advice.  Is it consistent with scripture. Does it draw you to or away from the Lord? Who gets the glory?

Prayer ~ Jesus, help us to listen with ears to hear Your words and to follow You with radical obedience.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 4-6

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

What are you serving with your turkey on Thanksgiving Day—or the evening before…or breakfast Friday morning? Here’s a quick and tasty bar that a friend recently made and I adapted to be gluten free.

Cranberry Nut Bars

2 eggs

1 cup sugar
1 cup gluten-free flour blend

1/3 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 1/4 cups Ocean Spray® Fresh or Frozen Cranberries

1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease an 8-inch baking pan. Beat eggs in a medium mixing bowl until thick. Gradually add sugar, beating until thoroughly blended. Stir in flour and melted butter; blend well. Add cranberries and walnuts, mixing gently just until combined. Spread the batter evenly in the greased pan.

Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool a bit and cut into bars. Great served warm. Good with Thanksgiving dinner or for breakfast on Black Friday. Makes 16 servings.

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Go Into Your Community…Your Region

After the resurrection of Jesus…

So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, "Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom?" He replied, "The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." After saying this, he was taken up into a cloud while they were watching, and they could no longer see him. Acts 1:6-9  

The Columbia River at Richland, Washington

What can you authenticate—endorse—corroborate about Jesus? He told His followers that they would be witnesses for Him. They would be “one who testifies” for Him (according to the Blue Letter Bible, Thayer’s Greek Lexicon). Are you one who could testify for Jesus? How much do you know about Him…about what He said and what He did? Like His disciples we are to go and tell people everywhere about Him. Jerusalem is the city where they were when Jesus was resurrected—Judea was the region—equivalent probably to each of the states in the United States. Samaria was a region north of Judea where those who were considered outcasts from the Jewish community—half-breeds lived. What would be equivalent in your life to those places that Jesus called out? Jerusalem—for me would be Richland, Washington. Judea—eastern Washington State. Samaria? Now really we don’t have towns or regions that we shun…but are there individuals with whom you don’t associate? Neighborhoods that you don’t go into because you just don’t feel safe or welcome there? How about the ends of the earth?

As the disciples asked Jesus… has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom? The answer is still the same. “The Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know.” We don’t know the hour or the day—but we still can be ready.

You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Luke 12:40 

We shouldn’t be lazy—sitting around stuffing our faces with popcorn and caramels watching something on TV that we wouldn’t watch with Jesus. Be ready…vigilant. Spreading the Good News—that Jesus IS the Lord of Lords and King of Kings. What is your comfort level with spreading this Good News? How will you tell or show others about Jesus? I blog. Let me know on this blog what you think of Jesus—is He your Lord and Savior? He is mine. Blessings~ 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, You are my Lord and Savior. Open the doors of opportunities for me to share Your Good News with others in my community and my neighborhood. I know I can do all things through You—as You give me strength. (Philippians 4:13).You said to “Go” so I will even if it is via the internet.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 1-3

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

I AM…With You Always

Jesus came and told his disciples, "I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth. Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age." Matthew 28:18-20

Baptism at the Jordan River - Israel

Each of these scriptures in Matthew and Mark is just a little different, as is the similar passage in Acts…but Jesus Christ’s message to His disciples was basically for them to “Go into the world” and “make disciples of all the nations.” Go and tell everyone…not just the Jews. Go everywhere…not just the nation of Israel. Go to the ends of the earth.

And then he told them, "Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won't hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed." When the Lord Jesus had finished talking with them, he was taken up into heaven and sat down in the place of honor at God's right hand. Mark 16:15-19

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you. And you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere—in Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 

Does it sometimes seem like the end of the earth to cross the street or to turn to someone in a check-out line at the store…and tell them about Jesus? Talking about the weather…or an upcoming holiday is always a good excuse to bring up Jesus…the creator of the universe—and thus the creator of our weather. Being aware of the emotional state of others is often made possible by the Holy Spirit. Pay attention. Sometimes people will be open about events in their lives…like a grandmother who just had a stroke…that will give you an opportunity to pray for them—right then and there. Even remarking that someone seems especially happy can open the conversation to an opportunity to praise the Lord. Be the eyes, ears, hand and feet of Jesus. Be ready to serve, assist, pray or rejoice. That is what our life in Christ is all about. Obedience. 

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—You are the I AM that spoke to Moses and sent Him to help your people in Egypt. Help us to be eyes, ears, hands and feet today. There are so many who need a loving touch or word…and we are here to honor You and do what we can to serve You by serving others. We love You…and those You have put here in our midst.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 24; John 20-21

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.

Risen From The Dead

Early on Sunday morning, as the new day was dawning, Mary Magdalene and the other Mary went out to visit the tomb. Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. "Don't be afraid!" he said. "I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn't here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you." The women ran quickly from the tomb. They were very frightened but also filled with great joy, and they rushed to give the disciples the angel's message. And as they went, Jesus met them and greeted them. And they ran to him, grasped his feet, and worshiped him. Then Jesus said to them, "Don't be afraid! Go tell my brothers to leave for Galilee, and they will see me there." Matthew 28:1-10 

  

The Empty Tomb - Jerusalem

Risen from the dead! How many people do you know who are risen from the dead? Jesus Himself raised at least three people—Lazarus, Jairus’ daughter, and a widow’s son. (John 11:17-44; Matthew 9:18-19; and Luke 7:11-15).  At Jesus’ resurrection there were graves opened and many people were resurrected with Him (Matthew 27:52-53)—a sign of First Fruits. But today, do we see people coming back to life after dying? There are some who have near death experience—in hospitals or at scenes of accidents. One of my brothers even received a huge electrical shock, had the white light at the end of the tunnel experience—and heard the voice of Jesus tell him that he had to go back. Death happens. Life happens. But no other god had died and been risen from the dead like Jesus! What a claim to His authority and power. He is the true God—living.

In the Apostles’ Creed—one that is used by most protestant churches it states that we believe in Jesus Christ who was crucified, died and was buried…and on the third day He rose again. We believe. 

Apostles’ Creed

I believe in God, the Father almighty,

creator of heaven and earth.

I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord,
who was conceived by the Holy Spirit,
born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried;
he descended to the dead.
On the third day he rose again;
he ascended into heaven,
he is seated at the right hand of the Father,
and he will come to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting. Amen.

Note that the Apostles Creed also states that we believe in the resurrection of the body—the body of the church—made up of individual. One day we will be resurrected, just like Jesus. What a glorious day that will be! I’ve had friends over the years that as we parted for the last time—moved away—we said…"I’ll see you in the air or up there." Up in the air as we are raptured or in heaven…in our resurrected bodies. Will you join us…in the air…or up there? The choice is yours. Choose Jesus as your Savior and you’ll be resurrected one day…just as He was. 

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, we praise You for Your glorious plan of redemption and salvation. We look forward to our resurrection…to be like Jesus.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 28; Mark 16

Happy Birthday, Lucy!

© 2017 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Do You Hear a Rooster Crowing?

After Jesus was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane He was taken to Roman officials and Temple priests for trial.

 Simon Peter followed Jesus, as did another of the disciples. That other disciple was acquainted with the high priest, so he was allowed to enter the high priest's courtyard with Jesus. Peter had to stay outside the gate. Then the disciple who knew the high priest spoke to the woman watching at the gate, and she let Peter in. The woman asked Peter, "You're not one of that man's disciples, are you?" "No," he said, "I am not." Because it was cold, the household servants and the guards had made a charcoal fire. They stood around it, warming themselves, and Peter stood with them, warming himself. …. Meanwhile, as Simon Peter was standing by the fire warming himself, they asked him again, "You're not one of his disciples, are you?" He denied it, saying, "No, I am not." But one of the household slaves of the high priest, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, asked, "Didn't I see you out there in the olive grove with Jesus?" Again Peter denied it. And immediately a rooster crowed. John 18:15-18; 25-27 

Rooster in Joppa - Israel

Peter—one of the greatest and most well-known disciples—denied Jesus. He said he didn’t know Him. Would you ever do the same? During the Last Supper, before Jesus arrest, Jesus told Peter that he would deny Jesus.

Simon Peter asked, "Lord, where are you going?" And Jesus replied, "You can't go with me now, but you will follow me later." "But why can't I come now, Lord?" he asked. "I'm ready to die for you." Jesus answered, "Die for me? I tell you the truth, Peter—before the rooster crows tomorrow morning, you will deny three times that you even know me. John 13:36-38.

Listen for the rooster crow. Do you hear it? Peter denied Jesus. Remember Jesus expects His followers to stand up for Him—publicly.

Everyone who acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will also acknowledge before my Father in heaven. But everyone who denies me here on earth, I will also deny before my Father in heaven. Matthew 10:32-33

Can you stand up for Jesus…today? Or will you deny Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—give me the courage to stand up for You. I love You and as You have promised to never leave me or forsake me…I promise You that I will never leave You or forsake you.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 23; John 18-19

© 2017 Text and Photos 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 Stumble

I have told you these things so that you won't abandon your faith. For you will be expelled from the synagogues, and the time is coming when those who kill you will think they are doing a holy service for God. This is because they have never known the Father or me. John 16:1-3

Another translation starts this passage saying…"These things I have spoken to you so that you may be kept from stumbling." John 16:1 NASB. Stumbling. I have fallen…just stumbled and landed on the ground a couple of times lately in my yard. Once I was sweeping leaves and the other time trying to walk around some bags of leaves and trash…and then decided to back up and find another way—but I tripped, stumbled, and fell. Kerplank! On my bottom. Ouch! That is an example of a physical stumble—but do we fall or stumble spiritually? The New Living Translation gives a suggestion of “abandoning” your faith. That would be a travesty. Jesus told His disciples…I have told you these things. What things? Always look back at the verses or thoughts prior to “these things” or “therefore” statements. I think Jesus was reminding His disciples that He loved them and that they were going to have to go through some hard times, some persecution because of their love for Him. The world hates them, but God was going to send the Holy Spirit to be their helper and comforter. That promise of the Holy Spirit was fulfilled at Pentecost.

Pelican on the Columbia River

Don't fly away...and abandon your faith.

We should accept the same encouragement from Jesus’ teaching. Don’t abandon your faith when you feel the world hates you. Hate is an emotion that “kills” a person’s character. Actually, if you look at it closely, it can damage both the person feeling the hate and the one to whom it is directed. Hate ruins relationships...and can turn inward in the person feeling that hate and anger resulting in sickness as the emotions stress that person’s internal organs. Of course, there are wrinkles that form, too, from the scowling face muscles. The person being hated may not even be distressed by the anger, but it will eat that hater alive. Jesus had already taught His disciples a very good lesson.

But to you who are willing to listen, I say, love your enemies! Do good to those who hate you. Bless those who curse you. Pray for those who hurt you. Luke 6:27-28 NLT

For those who have been physically killed by the hate and anger of the unrighteous person, like those people last week in a Texas church, may God bless and comfort their families and friends. Jesus told us that the world is going to hate us. Don’t allow that hate to cause you to abandon your faith. 

Prayer ~ Jesus, We know that You love us. God loved us so much that He sent You, His one and only Son, that whoever believes in You will have eternal life. God sent You into the world not to judge the world, but to save the world through You. (From John 3:16-17.) Thank You, Jesus, for Your love and for Your obedience to the Father.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 27; Mark 15

© 2017 Text and Photos 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.