How is Your Heart?

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have heard the commandment that says, 'You must not commit adultery.' But I say, anyone who even looks at a woman with lust has already committed adultery with her in his heart. So if your eye--even your good eye--causes you to lust, gouge it out and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell. And if your hand--even your stronger hand--causes you to sin, cut it off and throw it away. It is better for you to lose one part of your body than for your whole body to be thrown into hell.  Matthew 5:27-30

Jesus began this teaching directly from the Ten Commandments in the Old Testament.
     - You must not commit adultery. Exodus 20:14
Then Jesus goes beyond the Ten Commandments to the heart of the problem. Another passage speaks to this heart issue.
     - For as he thinks within himself, so he is. He says to you, "Eat and drink!" But his heart is not with you. Proverbs 23:7 (NASB)
People back in Solomon's day when he wrote Proverbs are just like the people today. Those who think evil, do evil...and those who think good things, do good things. To lust...or not to lust? That was the question and anyone lusting...breaking any of the Ten Commandments...was headed for hell. Jesus understood mankind. Don't let your desires of your heart entice you to sin. The heart is the center of the Jewish person's life.
    - Guard your heart above all else, for it determines the course of your life. Proverbs 4:23
Jesus knew the Jewish heart...and ours.
How is your heart? Don't throw your life away.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...What a great lesson You have taught us. Continue to open my eyes...my heart...to the purity that You require. I praise You.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 4-6

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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Seek purity in your heart and life-----like this water lily.

Settle Your Differences

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
When you are on the way to court with your adversary, settle your differences quickly. Otherwise, your accuser may hand you over to the judge, who will hand you over to an officer, and you will be thrown into prison. And if that happens, you surely won't be free again until you have paid the last penny. Matthew 5:25-26

Can You "Be Still" on Your Birthday?

Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world. Psalm 46:10

This verse is my Aunt Mercedes favorite scripture passage and today we celebrate her 92nd Birthday! Happy Birthday Dear Auntie Merc! May God continue to bless and guide you--giving you His Peace, Joy, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Kindness, Gentleness, Self-Control and Love--as you continue to follow His road--His path. It has been a great walk with you...and the Lord.

Everyone has a story. Aunt Merc was an only child...who took herself to church. Her parents didn't go. Amazing. That takes gumption and dedication. She loves life, her family, her friends and Jesus of whom she has been a devoted follower for more than 80 years!

Did Jesus ever use this "Be Still" scripture in any of His teachings? It is not evident that He ever did use that scripture to teach His followers to slow down...to be still...to just be quiet and listen to and listen for the Lord. He did declare to the woman at the well that He was the Messiah--therefore declaring HImself to be God.
     - The woman said, "I know the Messiah is coming--the one who is called Christ. When he comes, he will explain everything to us." Then Jesus told her, "I AM the Messiah!" John 4:25-26

There are several scripture passages that deal with being silent or knowing God.
     - But the LORD is in his holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before him. Habakkuk 2:20
     - Be silent, O all flesh, before the LORD: for he is raised up out of his holy habitation. Zechariah 2:13
     - That men may know that thou, whose name alone is JEHOVAH, art the most high over all the earth. Psalm 83:18
     - Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Psalm 100:3

Be quiet enough to let God speak to you. Know God--Father. Son. Holy Spirit.
How do we "know" God? Get into His word...read--study--pray.
That is just what Auntie Merc has been doing for most of her life. Thank you, Auntie Merc, for being such a good example for us, for sharing your story and your life with us. We love you!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...We come before You with quiet hearts and minds....ready to receive Your words--your teaching and Your guidance. Thank You for Auntie Merc--for her long life, her happy smile and joyful attitude. Please continue to bless her.

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 48-50

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Happy Birthday, Auntie Mercedes.

© 2018 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. www..org/daily reading.        

Reconciliation

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
So if you are presenting a sacrifice at the altar in the Temple and you suddenly remember that someone has something against you, leave your sacrifice there at the altar. Go and be reconciled to that person. Then come and offer your sacrifice to God.  Matthew 5:23-24

In the Old Testament God spoke to the children of Israel. He was ready to "set things right"...to reconcile. That is a good example for Jesus' followers--including us.
     - For I am ready to set things right, not in the distant future, but right now! I am ready to save Jerusalem and show my glory to Israel. Isaiah 46:13

Don't Be a Fool

Jesus words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not murder. If you commit murder, you are subject to judgment. But I say, if you are even angry with someone, you are subject to judgment! If you call someone an idiot, you are in danger of being brought before the court. And if you curse someone, you are in danger of the fires of hell.  Matthew 5:21-22

Teaching from the Old Testament...
     - You shall not murder. Exodus 20:13 (NASB) - from the Ten Commandments.
     - Do not be eager in your heart to be angry, For anger resides in the bosom of fools. Ecclesiastes 7:9 (NASB)
Compare with another translation. Control your temper, for anger labels you a fool.  Ecclesiastes 7:9 (NLT)
Anger is NOT a good thing. Although it is a normal human reaction it can be controlled and dealt with in a constructive manner. Jesus was teaching His followers that being angry with someone--it is like murdering their character. That may land you in hell. Is it worth it?

     - Don't sin by letting anger control you. Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, Ephesians 4:26
Choose wisely--choose to control your anger--don't be a fool and let it control you!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus..Wow--what a convicting lesson on anger and murder. Show me how to control my anger....and not sin. Forgiveness seems to be a key...forgiveness of others' actions that seem offensive. Open my eyes to see people as You see them. I don't want to be a fool...or in danger of going to hell. I praise You for Your wisdom and guidance.

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 43-45

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© 2018 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. www..org/daily reading.        

Warning Sign

Words of Jesus from The Sermon on the Mount....
But I warn you--unless your righteousness is better than the righteousness of the teachers of religious law and the Pharisees, you will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven! Matthew 5:20 (NASB)

Warning. Do we need an enormous traffic signs?
   STOP

    Do Not Be a Hypocrite.
    Watch Out for Fake Righteusness
    Enter the Kingdom of Heaven Here
    True Righteous Voucher Necessary
God promises in the Book of Daniel that His Kingdom will last forever. There won't be any traffic signs directing us in the way to go. Jesus gave His sign warning mankind...live right before God. Don't be self-righteous like the Pharisees.  

     - Then the sovereignty, the dominion and the greatness of all the kingdoms under the whole heaven will be given to the people of the saints of the Highest One; His kingdom will be an everlasting kingdom, and all the dominions will serve and obey Him. Daniel 7:27 (NASB)

RIGHTEOUSNESS - living God's way. It is the only way to get into Heaven. God requires belief in His Son, Jesus Christ, and obeying His Commandments. Jesus warned His followers...and that includes us...that we must not be like the Pharisees--self-righteous--or we will never enter the Kingdom of Heaven. Are you adhering to this warning?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I hear Your warning. Help me to live humbly in a way that is pleasing to You.

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 41-42

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table
With six grams of protein per egg, eggs are a good source of protein. Frittatas are an egg dish that you can eat at Breakfast, Lunch or Supper. Here's a Salmon and Asparagus Frittata that is yummy and easy. You can use grilled (or canned) salmon and asparagus or even substitute bacon and zucchini.

Salmon and Asparagus Frittata. Serves 5-6 people -adjust recipe to serve number o guests
10-12 eggs, beaten (use ~2 eggs per person)
6-8 oz of salmon, wild caught - not color added farmed fish
1 lb asparagus
1 clove garlic chopped  (or1 tsp garlic powder)
1Tbsp sweet onion, chopped (or 1 tsp onion powder)
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp dried basil
Fresh ground salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil
Garnish - grated cheese or sliced avocado

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
Meanwhile, grill salmon (if fresh salmon is used) and asparagus for about 4-6 minutes per side.
Allow to cool a bit, then cut into bite-sized pieces.
Whip eggs in a large bowl, add seasonings, salmon and asparagus. Oil large cast iron frying pan. Pour egg mixture into pan. Bake 18-20 minutes or until middle of the frittata is completely cooked through. Top with cheese or avocado if desired.

   

© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.        

Why Did Jesus Come to Earth?

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Don't misunderstand why I have come. I did not come to abolish the law of Moses or the writings of the prophets. No, I came to accomplish their purpose. I tell you the truth, until heaven and earth disappear, not even the smallest detail of God's law will disappear until its purpose is achieved. So if you ignore the least commandment and teach others to do the same, you will be called the least in the Kingdom of Heaven. But anyone who obeys God's laws and teaches them will be called great in the Kingdom of Heaven. Matthew 5:17-19


Why did Jesus come to earth? From this passage we are told that He came to fulfill the law--to the smallest detail. The Law. The Ten Commandments.
The Old Testament gives us some clues about God's Word...and His promises as He tells us that it accomplishes forever what was planned.
     - The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out, and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it. Isaiah 55:10-11

This Little Light of Mine

From The Sermon on the Mount...
You are the light of the world--like a city on a hilltop that cannot be hidden. No one lights a lamp and then puts it under a basket. Instead, a lamp is placed on a stand, where it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father. Matthew 5:14-16

This is such an encouraging passage--I've always loved it since it is such a visual of putting the basket over the lamp. No. Put the lamp on a lamp stand so it can light up the room. Maybe another reason I like this passage is because of the kids' song. It is one of the first songs pre-schoolers learn--so it is imbedded in my head.
This Little of Mine

This little light of mine,
I'm gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I'm gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.

Hide it under a bushel? No!
I'm gonna let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I'm gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.

Don't let Satan blow it out,
I'm gonna let it shine
Don't let Satan blow it out,
I'm gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.

Shine all over [town name]
I'm gonna let it shine
Shine all over [town name]
I'm gonna let it shine.

Let it shine,

Let it shine,

Let it shine.



Let it shine til Jesus comes,

I'm gonna let it shine

Let it shine til Jesus comes,

I'm gonna let it shine

Let it shine,

Let it shine,

Let it shine.



This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine

This little light of mine,

I'm gonna let it shine

Let it shine,

Let it shine,

Let it shine.  (copyright unknown)

God gives light. He is light. We can only see God in the light--not if we are in darkness. Let Him shine in and through you...and praise Him.
     - He put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; any will see and fear And will trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:3 (NASB)
Golden Lampstands are an important part of the Temple in Jerusalem as described in the Old  Testament. Put your light on a lampstand--it probably won't be a gold one--but hold your light--the truth of Jesus--up for all to know Him.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus,You are the Light of the World (John 8:12). Shine Your light on me--illuminating Your truth...giving hope to everyone. May Your light through me.

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 35-37

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© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.        

Salt - Tasty

From The Sermon on the Mount...
You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has lost its flavor? Can you make it salty again? It will be thrown out and trampled underfoot as worthless. Matthew 5:13

Persected Rewards

From The Sermon on the Mount...
God blesses those who are persecuted for doing right, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. God blesses you when people mock you and persecute you and lie about you and say all sorts of evil things against you because you are my followers. Be happy about it! Be very glad! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, the ancient prophets were persecuted in the same way. Matthew 5:10-12

Live for Peace

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God. Matthew 5:9 (NASB)

Peace is important to God. "Peace" appears 361 times in the New Living Translation and 400 times in the old Kings James translation. That is a lot of peace, but many of those verses deal with the sacrificial peace offerings as described in Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers, as well as other books in the Old Testament. Peace is that quality and attitude where there is a freedom from stress, turbulence or anxiety. It is that feeling of prosperity, tranquility and safety. It was assumed to be the political position when the Messiah arrived, but we know that it was surely a state of mind...not a political quality when Jesus arrived on earth. Jesus was teaching that crowd on the hillside above the Sea of Galilee that they needed to be peacemakers--seeking peace. Actually, not just seeking peace for themselves, but to be peacemakers--spreading and encouraging peace with others. Here are a few verses that encourage peace.
     - Turn away from evil and do good. Search for peace, and work to maintain it. Psalm 34:14
     - In peace I will both lie down and sleep, For You alone, O LORD, make me to dwell in safety. Psalm 4:8 (NASB)
     - The LORD will give strength to His people; The LORD will bless His people with peace. Psalm 29:11 (NASB)
     - Those who love Your law have great peace, and nothing causes them to stumble. Psalm 119:165 (NASB)
     - For the sake of my brothers and my friends, will now say, "May peace be within you." Psalm 122:8 (NASB)
     - Her ways are pleasant ways And all her paths are peace. Proverbs 3:17 (NASB)
     - When a man's ways are pleasing to the LORD, He makes even his enemies to be at peace with him. Proverbs 16:7 (NASB)
     - A time to love and a time to hate; A time for war and a time for peace. Ecclesiastes 3:8 (NASB)
     - LORD, You will establish peace for us, since You have also performed for us all our works. 
Isaiah 26:12 (NASB)
     - And the work of righteousness will be peace, and the service of righteousness, quietness and confidence forever. Isaiah 32:17 (NASB)
    - For you will go out with joy and be led forth with peace; the mountains and the hills will break forth into shouts of joy before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. Isaiah 55:12 (NASB)
These verses encourage us to seek peace--to pursue it. I certainly want peace in my life. How about you?

And those who are peacemakers will plant seeds of peace and reap a harvest of righteousness. James 3:18
God blesses those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9

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. So then, let us aim for harmony in the church and try to build each other up. Romans 14:17-19

Claim that promise of being a peacemaker--and you will be a son or daughter of God.

The LORD lift up His countenance on you, And give you peace. Numbers 6:26 (NASB)

Prayer ~ Lord God, where there is contention and strife with others...give me grace to help them to solve their differences...to seekYour peace in their lives.

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 27-29

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© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.        

Pure Heart?

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God. Matthew 5:8 (NASB)

Are You Merciful?

From The Sermon on the Mount....
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy. Matthew 5:7 (NASB)

Merciful. Those who show mercy, kindness, compassion, forgiveness and tenderness. That is just being loving--showing love--as in the very basis of Jesus' teaching...love one another. Jesus was giving His disciples and followers a lesson in other words...mercy...love.
     - You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:18 (NASB)

The lemon tree represents compassion and empathy. These lemons were growing near the ConCafe in Lisbon, Portugal.

Additional teaching that may have been on Jesus mind as He taught on how to treat others with kindness and mercy are listed in these verses in Psalms and Proverbs.
     - With the kind You show yourself kind; with the blameless You show Yourself blameless....Psalm 18:25 (NASB) 

     - The merciful man does himself good, but the cruel man does himself harm. Proverbs 11:17 (NASB)

One thing I really like about the church I attend is that everyone is so loving. It is just heartwarming to see so many people hugging each other--truly interested in each others life, family, friends, projects and careers. During this flu season it is an opportunity to share germs---ugh--but mostly it is goodness, kindness, mercy and love. That is a demonstration of the Fruits of the Spirit. Be merciful by allowing the Holy Spirit to work in and through you.
     - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law. Galatians 5:22 (NASB)
Are you merciful?

Prayer ~ Lord God, help me to be merciful to others--really showing them that I care about them. Jesus--You have been such an example to us--greatest love of all showing mercy beyond all comprehension. Thank you.  

Daily Bible Reading: Genesis 22-24

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

To honor my son, Mike--whose birthday was yesterday--here is his favorite recipe.

Eggs Benedict 
Poached Eggs on English Muffin with meat, covered with Hollandaise Sauce




Eggs Benedict has been a family favorite in our home for over forty years! My husband and I used to have Eggs Benedict on the weekend regularly at a local restaurant when we were first married. When he was relocated in his job, our new community didn’t have any restaurants with Eggs Benedict on the menu—so I learned to master Hollandaise Sauce, the key ingredient to Eggs Benedict. Timing is essential. Prepare the Hollandaise Sauce, heat the meat, toast the muffins and then poach the eggs. 

      Assemble in the following order:

      English Muffins, toasted

      Meat (Canadian Bacon, warmed) 

            (or other meat such as thinly sliced smoked salmon (lox) served cold, regular bacon, or turkey meat)

      Cheese, if desired, cheddar, white cheddar, dill havarti or swiss

      Sliced Vegetables (tomato or avocado), optional 

      Poached Eggs (1 or 2 per person)

      Hollandaise Sauce
Garnish with paprika or chopped chives




Poached Eggs – Use a specialty egg poaching pan or poach the eggs yourself. Add a tablespoon of white vinegar to a quart of water, bring to a boil. Gently add the eggs (one or two per person) to the water and simmer until the whites of the eggs are set. Remove from the water with a slotted spoon. Serve immediately. 




Healthy Hollandaise Sauce – serves 4

3/4 cup low-fat plain Greek yogurt
4 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
3 egg yolks
4 Tbsp butter, melted
1/4 tsp salt
1 pinch fresh ground pepper or cayenne pepper

Thoroughly mix yogurt, lemon juice, and egg yolks.
Heat in a double boiler over simmering water, stirring frequently, until sauce has thickened, about 10 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in salt, butter, and pepper.

Enjoy for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.        

Hungry for Righteousness?

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:6 (NASB)

Be Gentle

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Blessed are the gentle, for they shall inherit the earth. Matthew 5:5 (NASB)

Do You Mourn?

From The Sermon on the Mount...
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Matthew 5:4

Spiritual Need

From The Sermon on the Mount...
God blesses those who are poor and realize their need for him, for the Kingdom of Heaven is theirs. Matthew 5:3

Psalm 24 - Relationship with a Pure Heart

Relatonship

You must worship no other gods, for the LORD, whose very name is Jealous, is a God who is jealous about his relationship with you. Exodus 34:14

Temptation on the Mountain

Next the devil took him to the peak of a very high mountain and showed him all the kingdoms of the world and their glory. "I will give it all to you," he said, "if you will kneel down and worship me." "Get out of here, Satan," Jesus told him. "For the Scriptures say, 'You must worship the LORD your God and serve only him. Then the devil went away, and angels came and took care of Jesus. Matthew 4:8-11

 Mount Hermon 

Don't Test God

Model of the Temple - Jerusalem 

Then the devil took him to the holy city, Jerusalem, to the highest point of the Temple, and said, "If you are the Son of God, jump off! For the Scriptures say, 'He will order his angels to protect you. And they will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone.' Jesus responded, "The Scriptures also say, 'You must not test the LORD your God.' Matthew 4:5-7

Jesus was being confronted by the devil at the tallest point in Jerusalem. Remember that they were in the Judean desert and now immediately in Jerusalem. Did the devil just whisk Jesus away from the desert to the Holy city...or did Jesus walk? We don't know. It might be interesting to see how someone would depict that scene if they were to make a movie of the temptations. Note that the devil is misquoting scripture. Matthew Henry, a minister and author in the 1600's, has given a thorough and comprehensive review of this chapter, just like his evaluation of all the other books of the entire Bible in his commentary. See that in the Blue Letter Bible web site. Matthew Henry points out that the evil, cunning devil wanted Jesus to throw Himself down from the Temple so that He would die--but then used the promises that God gave in Psalms...
     - For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go. They will hold you up with their hands so you won't even hurt your foot on a stone. Psalm 91:11-12
Even satan knows God's word...and uses or misuses it. He didn't use the entire verse, leaving out  wherever you go. By leaving out those words he infered that God's angels will not protect Jesus or us  everywhere. Not true. As long as we are following God's will--His direction--then we are assured ofHis promise to be under His protection. Additionally, we must be very careful that we handle God's word correctly not misusing it.

The devil was tempting Jesus, thus tempting God. Jesus retort was that we are not to tempt God. Jesus quote from the Old Testament...
     - You must not test the LORD your God as you did when you complained at Massah. Deuteronomy 6:16
Since Jesus didn't get caught up in the issue of angel's protection, but addressed the testing God issue,   I preceive the greatest lesson we learn from Jesus' second temptation is that we are not to test God. How often do we do that? Do we say...Lord, if You will do this or that for me...I'll follow Your way. Actually that is backwards. It should be...Lord, I am following Your way, please...send Your angels to protect me...or whatever.

Prayer ~ Lord, You are awesome and wise above all. Thank You for this lesson on temptation that we can learn more about You and Your plan for each of us...for mankind that we would be able to live to please You...day by day...moment by moment.   

Daily Bible Reading: Job 29-31

© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.                                                                                   

Live by God's Word - Not On Bread Alone

During that time the devil came and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become loaves of bread." But Jesus told him, "No! The Scriptures say, 'People do not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.'  Matthew 4:3-4

Jesus was in the wilderness for forty days. Can you imagine how hungry and thirsty you would be going without food AND water for forty days? How long can a person survive without water or food?

After reviewing several websites it seems that a person could exist for several hours to several days without water, but it is impossible to predict precisely how long anyone can survive due to many variables involved including ambient temperature, health conditions, age, and activity level--such as exercising. Survival without food is another scenarios that has many variables, but people gave been known to survive 21-40 days fasting from all food.

Consider that it would have been hot at any time of the year that Jesus would have spent 40 days in the Judaean desert. The daytime temperatures vary from 20.5 C in January to 39.7 C in July (that is 68.9 F to 103.5 F). Their rainfall varies from 0 to 9 mm (0.35 inches) each month. That is very dry! And little if anything grows there--so Jesus would not have had much food available to Him on which to  just nibble.

Forty Days - Forty Years

After His baptism...
Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the wilderness to be tempted there by the devil. For forty days and forty nights he fasted and became very hungry.  Matthew 4:1-2

Baptism

Baptism the  Jordan River

Don't You Understand?

"Don't you understand yet?" Jesus asked. Matthew 15:16

The disciples were always asking for an explanation to Jesus' parables and teachings. Can't you just hear Jesus saying..."Really, guys, don't you get it? OK. I'll explain this to you. Listen up. Pay attention and try to understand"
From the Old Testament we see Isaiah using "listen" in his prophesy concerning Israel in the end time. Listening is a key to understanding anything--especially God's words.
     - "Listen to me, all who hope for deliverance--all who seek the LORD! Consider the rock from which you were cut, the quarry from which you were mined. Yes, think about Abraham, your ancestor, and Sarah, who gave birth to your nation. Abraham was only one man when I called him. But when I blessed him, he became a great nation. The LORD will comfort Israel again and have pity on her ruins. Her desert will blossom like Eden, her barren wilderness like the garden of the LORD. Joy and gladness will be found there. Songs of thanksgiving will fill the air. Listen to me, my people. Hear me, Israel, for my law will be proclaimed, and my justice will become a light to the nations. My mercy and justice are coming soon. My salvation is on the way. My strong arm will bring justice to the nations. All distant lands will look to me and wait in hope for my powerful arm. Look up to the skies above, and gaze down on the earth below. For the skies will disappear like smoke, and the earth will wear out like a piece of clothing. The people of the earth will die like flies, but my salvation lasts forever. My righteous rule will never end! Listen to me, you who know right from wrong, you who cherish my law in your hearts. Do not be afraid of people's scorn, nor fear their insults." Isaiah 51:1-7


Listen. How can we understand if we don't listen? In this Isaiah passage God was speaking to the nation of Israel...but He he was also addressing anyone who knows right from wrong. We just need to "listen." Listening to God's word is always a wise action. This reminds me that I need to be "reading" His word every day--listening for understanding. It is so easy to fall away from a daily devotional habit. Oh, I can read a verse or two--especially as I write this blog...but it is harder to keep up my Daily Bible Reading as I read the Bible through this year and journal. How are you doing in this New Year with your Daily Bible Reading and journaling? As you listen to God's word--studying Jesus teachings...what is He telling you? Do you understand?

Prayer ~ Lord, as we read Your Word help us to understand. Give us wisdom and fill us with Your joy as we understand. We give You praise and are filled with thanksgiving as we seek You and listen to Your word.

Daily Bible Reading: Job 14-16

© 2018 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. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading.                                                                                   

Questions?

Jesus was always asking people questions.
    - "Don't you understand yet?" Jesus asked. Matthew 15:16
    - But Jesus knew their (the Pharisees) evil motives. "You hypocrites!" he said. "Why are you trying to trap me? Matthew 22:18
     - Jesus knew what they were thinking, so he asked them, "Why do you question this in your hearts? Luke 5:22
  - Then Jesus asked them, "Didn't you ever read this in the Scriptures? 'The stone that the builders rejected has now become the cornerstone. This is the LORD's doing, and it is wonderful.                                           to see.' Matthew 21:42
  - Then he (Jesus) asked them, "But who do you say I am?" Peter replied, "You are the Messiah. Mark 8:29

Show Me Mercy

A psalm of David. Declare me innocent, O LORD, for I have acted with integrity; I have trusted in the LORD without wavering. Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. For I am always aware of your unfailing love, and I have lived according to your truth. I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. I hate the gatherings of those who do evil, and I refuse to join in with the wicked. I wash my hands to declare my innocence. I come to your altar, O LORD, singing a song of thanksgiving and telling of all your wonders. I love your sanctuary, LORD, the place where your glorious presence dwells. Don't let me suffer the fate of sinners. Don't condemn me along with murderers. Their hands are dirty with evil schemes, and they constantly take bribes. But I am not like that; I live with integrity. So redeem me and show me mercy. Now I stand on solid ground, and I will publicly praise the LORD. Psalm 26:1-12

May God's Mercy Shine in Your Life

David is encouraging us to live with integrity--a pure heart. That is a good way to start the new year. Show me mercy, Lord...and I will publically praise You. There is no higher honor we can give the Lord than to show our respect by publically praising Him.

As I write this I am reminded of a man of integrity who attended my church. Bill Lucke went to be with our Lord earlier this week. He will be remembered as a "man of integrity" because he was honest, true, considerate, generous and a loving example in the way he treated his family and friends. My heartfelt sympathy goes to his wife, Nancy, and to all of his devoted family--and extended family of close friends. May the Lord show them mercy and give them His peace.

Stand on solid ground...spiritually grounded in God's Word. That is a goal for today...and every day in this new year. There is a wonderful song about standing on holy ground that was written in about 1979 by Geron Davis. We've often sung the chorus during Sunday services over the past twenty some years that we have attended the Richland Nazarene church.
Holy Ground chorus :
     We are standing on Holy Ground
     And I know that there are Angels all around.
     Let us praise Jesus now
     For we are standing in His presence
     On Holy Ground.

Are you praising Jesus now? Are you standing on Holy Ground?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I am in awe of You--as Creator, as Servant, as Friend, as Sacrifice, as my Lord and God. I stand on Holy Ground--only because You have consecrated it.  
Daily Bible Reading - Job 6-9

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table
How are you doing with your New Year's resolutions and diet? Looking for a good way to prepare vegetables? Have you tried roasted veggies?

Roasted Veggies
Cover a large cookie sheet with parchment paper. Heat oven to 450 degrees.
Choose one cup of raw vegetable per person for the list below:
 Asparagus
 Broccoli
 Cauliflower
 Mushrooms
 Sweet Potatoes
 Carrots
 Sweet Onion
Cut veggies into bite sized pieces.Place veggies on cookie sheet and sprinkle with olive oil. Roast for about 20 minutes or until browned. Sprinkle with freshly ground salt. Enjoy knowing that you are eating healthy.

©2018 Photo and text 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 www.blueletterbible.org/dailyreading

Can Anything Good Come From Nazareth?

When Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt. "Get up!" the angel said. "Take the child and his mother back to the land of Israel, because those who were trying to kill the child are dead." So Joseph got up and returned to the land of Israel with Jesus and his mother. But when he learned that the new ruler of Judea was Herod's son Archelaus, he was afraid to go there. Then, after being warned in a dream, he left for the region of Galilee. So the family went and lived in a town called Nazareth. This fulfilled what the prophets had said: "He will be called a Nazarene." Matthew 2:19-23

It was predicted that the Messiah would be born in Bethlehem, come out of Egypt and be a Nazarite.
 Bethlehem - Micah 5:2. Fulfilled in Matthew2:1-6
 Egypt - Hosea11:1. Fulfilled in 2:23
 Nazareth - Isaiah 11:1 and Isaiah 53:3. Fulfilled in Matthew 2:23
     - "Nazareth!" exclaimed Nathanael. "Can anything good come from Nazareth?" "Come and see for yourself," Philip replied. John1:46
See for yourself. Search the scriptures for the prophesies and the completion of those predictions. If you're convinced yourself, then you will be able to share those facts with others. I recently read an article about a Jewish man who was always taught by his grandparents that the New Testament Bible of the Christians was evil lies, but when he read it for himself he discovered that it was written about Jews, by Jews, for Jews. He became a believer in Jesus as the Messiah. His Messiah. Soon after that he discovered that his father also became a believer. Something good did come out of Nazareth. Jesus the Messiah. He came for the Jews...and for the Gentiles. Is He your Messiah?

Camel Crossing- at the Judean desert- Israel

Prayer – Lord God, this is the beginning of a new  year...and another chance to learn about You--and share the truth that You are the Messiah. Shalom to all who read this.

Bible Reading: January 4 - Job 1-5

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 
All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise notedBiblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading

What Motives You?

I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you find integrity there. You know I have done all this with good motives, and I have watched your people offer their gifts willingly and joyously. 1 Chronicles 29:17

What motivates you? Money? Is it your paycheck--putting in an honest day or week's work for a fair wage?  Money. Does it put a roof over your head, clothes on your back and send your kids to college?Sure it does--but that money belongs to and comes from the Lord--doesn't it?
     - "No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money."  Luke 16:13

Bits of old coins in Israel

What motivates you? Love? Unfailing love? Knowing that God loves you...and that He will never leave you or forsake you. As David wrote...
     - Then David continued, "Be strong and courageous, and do the work. Don't be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD God, my God, is with you. He will not fail you or forsake you. He will see to it that all the work related to the Temple of the LORD is finished correctly." 1 Chronicles 28:20
Be strong and courageous...know God is always with you--within you because you are the temple of God. He is for you.
     - The LORD directs our steps, so why try to understand everything along the way? Don't trap yourself by making a rash promise to God and only later counting the cost. A wise king scatters the wicked like wheat, then runs his threshing wheel over them. The LORD's light penetrates the human spirit, exposing every hidden motive. Unfailing love and faithfulness protect the king; his throne is made secure through love. Proverbs 20:24-28

What motivates you? The choice is up to each of us. Choose today whom you will serve.
 What motives  you? Money or God?
I choose God. He is my motivation.

Prayer – You are my true motivation Lord--Help me to apply Your teachings as motivation in my life.
Bible Reading: January 3 - Genesis 8-11

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 
All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT) unless otherwise notedBiblical search from Blue Letter Bible - http://v3.blueletterbible.org/search.cfm. www.blueletterbible.org/daily reading

Beginnings

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him, and apart from Him nothing came into being that has come into being. In Him was life, and the life was the Light of men. The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness did not comprehend it. John 1:1-5 (NASB)

Plans for the New Year 2018

For which one of you, when he wants to build a tower, does not first sit down and calculate the cost to see if he has enough to complete it? Luke 14:28 (NASB)

Happy New Year - 2018!
Have you made any resolutions for this New Year? Jesus was always asking questions. In this passage in Luke He asked the crowd following Him about making plans--calculating the cost. There is always a cost besides just the materials when someone is doing a project. Costs like time, energy, stress, and spiritual value. Do you hear Jesus asking you if you are making plans? He has plans for you.
     - For I know the plans that I have for you,' declares the LORD, 'plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope. Jeremiah 29:11 (NASB)
     - Make it your goal to live a quiet life, minding your own business and working with your hands, just as we instructed you before. 1 Thessalonians 4:11