The Kingdom of God is Among You

One day the Pharisees asked Jesus, "When will the Kingdom of God come?" Jesus replied, "The Kingdom of God can't be detected by visible signs. You won't be able to say, 'Here it is!' or 'It's over there!' For the Kingdom of God is already among you." Luke 17:20-21

Last day of October. I’m sure there are some families out there that are wondering… When will the Kingdom of God come?...because they are so oppressed with domestic violence that only the thought of Jesus return offers them any hope. Domestic violence includes emotional as well as physical abuse, sexual assault and trafficking. The problem isn’t just here in the United States. It is prevalent around the world. This may be the last day of October and the end of the Domestic Violence Awareness campaign for 2018, but unfortunately it is not the end of domestic violence.

Shirley& Bob
Vicki & Anne
October 1989

 Please continue to pray and intervene for women and children around the world who are victims of domestic violence. Personally, I am still grieving for my sister and her two daughters, along with her new husband, who were murdered almost twenty-nine years ago by her ex-husband. The ultimate domestic violence—death. But they believed in Jesus as their Savior and God was with them. The Kingdom of God was already in them.

Do you believe that the Kingdom of God is already in you? Jesus has promised…

For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. Romans 14:17

Don't you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don't fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.    1 Corinthians 6:9-10

Take a look at your own life…as I have looked at mine. Are we greedy…or thieves…or worship (follow) idols in even just little ways? We are not perfect—let’s not try to fool ourselves. Only Jesus was perfect. But we are forgiven…IF we ask for forgiveness. For those involved in abuse, I pray that the abuse will end—now—and that forgiveness and reconciliation will transform the lives of those involved. Transformed to know that they can have the Kingdom of God—now—within them when they believe in Jesus as their Savior.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, In Your mercy and love, touch the lives of those around the world involved in abuse. It may seem like a cultural element or habit, but abuse is disrespectful. There is no love there…and all love comes from You—so please protect those involved in abuse and intercede for those, especially the children. May Your love shine through those who love You and touch the lives of those who need Your love. The Kingdom of God is within us—we don’t need to look any further…or long for the future. It is here—now. You are with us and within us.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 19; Mark 10

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Friends—Be Faithful

Dear friends, I had been eagerly planning to write to you about the salvation we all share. But now I find that I must write about something else, urging you to defend the faith that God has entrusted once for all time to his holy people. Jude 1:3

Be Faithful...Encourage Your Friends
Don't Gossip, Ridicule or Reject Them

Be faithful…defend the faith that God has entrusted…to his holy people. Entrusted.  Faith delivered…assigned by God Himself. Do you feel that God has called you out to “entrust” you with faith in Him? Personally I feel so special to be a part of God’s family. Everyone theoretically will at some point in their life meet Jesus…or be told about Him. It is up to each person to choose to follow Jesus…or not. I chose to follow Jesus. So I am part of God’s family—and growing in faith…hopefully daily. There is a responsibility in belonging to God’s family…in being a Christian and sharing your faith.

But you, dear friends, must build each other up in your most holy faith, pray in the power of the Holy Spirit, and await the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ, who will bring you eternal life. In this way, you will keep yourselves safe in God's love. And you must show mercy to those whose faith is wavering. Rescue others by snatching them from the flames of judgment. Show mercy to still others, but do so with great caution, hating the sins that contaminate their lives. Jude 1:20-23

Show mercy to other Christians who are struggling in their faith—and rescue them. Encourage them in their relationship with the Lord so that they would seek Him daily, growing in His grace and mercy. Eternal life is our ultimate reward…but daily walking with Jesus gives us His peace and strength to face any challenge that life tosses our way. Challenges in life are inevitable—but with the encouragement of fellow Christians—knowing we are loved by God—can help us get through anything. One of my grandgirls’ favorite verse is…

For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13

Claim that verse for yourself…and your struggling friends, today.

Prayer ~ Now all glory to You, God. You are able to keep us from falling away and You will bring us joyously into Your glorious presence without a single fault. All glory to You for You alone are God, our Savior. All glory, majesty, power, and authority are Yours before all time, and in the present, and beyond all time! Amen. Jude 1:24-25

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 18

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Has Your Friend Betrayed You?

It is not an enemy who taunts me—I could bear that. It is not my foes who so arrogantly insult me—I could have hidden from them. Instead, it is you—my equal, my companion and close friend. ... As for my companion, he betrayed his friends; he broke his promises. His words are as smooth as butter, but in his heart is war. His words are as soothing as lotion, but underneath are daggers! Psalm 55:12-13, 20-21

Rise Above

David had a lot of grief in his life. Some of his struggles stemmed from lustful decisions he made…but other problems were not of his choosing…like this betrayal by his friend. Do you ever feel like your friends have betrayed you? That is not something I’ve had to deal with…maybe a friend has ignored me…or ridiculed or rejected an idea I thought was great—but not betrayed me—or broke promises. I think that has to do with choosing friends carefully. My friends don’t have daggers hidden in their words like David’s friend in this scripture. He is obviously overwhelmed with his troubles as he cries out to God. A new friend of mine is inundated with a series of situations that would have most people knee deep in tears—but she is taking it day by day to the Lord…and trying to stay positive even though like Job she’s lost most everything she has. She feels betrayed by family, friends and society.

Please listen and answer me, for I am overwhelmed by my troubles. Psalm 55:2

This must have been a really meaningful companion as David tells us that he enjoyed such a great fellowship with his friend. They were tabernacle…church…friends. They went to the house of the Lord together. Those are the ones you feel you can trust...who won't betray you. 

What good fellowship we once enjoyed as we walked together to the house of God. Psalm 55:14

We can assume that David recovered from this betrayal since he continued to be king and reign over Israel, but betrayal by a friend like this is deeply felt and not easily forgotten. Can you forgive a friend for betraying you?

Prayer ~ Lord God—forgive me as I have forgiven others for even small offenses. Thank you for forgiving me for my mistakes, bad attitudes and just plain sin shrouded in disobedience.

Daily Bible Reading: John 11

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Do You Call Yourself “Friend?”

Then he (Jesus) told them a story: "A rich man had a fertile farm that produced fine crops. He said to himself, 'What should I do? I don't have room for all my crops.' Then he said, 'I know! I'll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I'll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. And I'll sit back and say to myself, "My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry." But God said to him, 'You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?' Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God." Luke 12:16-21

Do you call yourself “friend” or do you even talk to yourself? The farmer in this scripture referred to himself as “friend” while he was giving himself a pat on the back for growing such an abundance of crops. He didn’t recognize that God was the one who caused that abundance.

Silos near Rosalia, Washington

Build bigger barns. That is the logical thing for this wealthy farmer to do. Store away his excess for the future. Isn't that what Joseph did for the pharaoh in Egypt? And isn't that what we do with our 401k accounts—store up for the future? Then we can lean back in our Lazy Boy recliners, watch Netflix, and have some popcorn. Eat, drink and be merry. Ahh, the easy life. But wait—we've stored up treasures here on earth—what about treasures in heaven? 

Jesus told him, "If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." Matthew 19:21

Jesus also said...

But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal. Matthew 6:20 KJV

What are you storing up in heaven? Relationships—with God the Father, with Jesus Christ, and with the Holy Spirit. Sweet relationships with other Christians. Good deeds, kind actions, pure motives, helpful initiatives, gentleness, self-control just as shown with the fruits of the Spirit. 

 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faith, gentleness, self-control. Galatians 5:22-23

So store up some kindness and goodness in heaven. Those will be a good reward here on earth, too

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, we praise you. Thank you for Your teaching about treasures and Your love for us. Looking forward to heaven...and treasures there with You.

Daily Bible Reading: John 11

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Focused Attention

As Jesus and the disciples continued on their way to Jerusalem, they came to a certain village where a woman named Martha welcomed him into her home. Her sister, Mary, sat at the Lord's feet, listening to what he taught. But Martha was distracted by the big dinner she was preparing. She came to Jesus and said, "Lord, doesn't it seem unfair to you that my sister just sits here while I do all the work? Tell her to come and help me." But the Lord said to her, "My dear Martha, you are worried and upset over all these details! There is only one thing worth being concerned about. Mary has discovered it, and it will not be taken away from her." Luke 10:38-42

Boiled Beef with Dill Gravy and Dumplings
A tasty meal that takes time.
A Martha Meal.

Jesus went to the home of His friends where He spent some time teaching and just fellowshipping with His followers, but Martha was distracted. Have you ever been distracted so that you were focusing on something about which no one else seemed to show concern? Mary was interested in only one thing—Jesus’ teaching. Martha was preparing a big meal—and she felt she needed help. She felt it was unfair for her to do all the work. Details…details…details. Don’t lose your cool, Martha. Mary has chosen well. If Martha chose a simpler meal she would have spent less time in the kitchen…and more time at the Lord’s feet. 
When you have dinner guests…what is on the menu? An elaborate meal? Or a simple meal so that you can spend more time with your guests? If Jesus were your guest, would you keep it simple so you can spend time with Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Help me to keep my life…even my meals…simple and focused on the important thing in life—You. You advised Martha: keep it simple. Mary focused on the one thing that was worthy of her attention. You.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 14-15

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Once Again…Be Ready

Be dressed for service and keep your lamps burning, as though you were waiting for your master to return from the wedding feast. Then you will be ready to open the door and let him in the moment he arrives and knocks. The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat! He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn. But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready. Understand this: If a homeowner knew exactly when a burglar was coming, he would not permit his house to be broken into. You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Luke 12:35-40

                           Are you ready?

The Hebrew people had a wedding custom in which the bridegroom had a supper with his friends—sort of a bachelor party—and then he went to the bride’s home to get her and returned to his house for a great banquet. Even if it was really late he expected his servants to be waiting for his return. This gives us the example that there is no room for laziness in the life of a believer who is waiting for Christ’s return. Be ready for that special time that Jesus has promised…His return. It may or may not happen in our lifetime…but we should “be ready” all the time. No slacking off…taking it easy. This is similar to the parable of the Ten Virgins who were waiting for the Bridegrooms return. They needed to keep their lamps lit and only five of them brought enough oil. When the unprepared young ladies returned from going to buy more oil, the door to the wedding feast was closed and they were refused entry. That is analogous to being refused entry into heaven. The lesson again…BE READY.

Be ready all the time because we don’t know when Jesus, the Son of Man, will return. This scripture tells us that it will be when we least expect it. Be ready.

            Wait for the Lord’s return eagerly—Philippians 3:20

            Crowns for all who look forward to Christ’s appearing. 2 Timothy 4:8

            Be patient as you wait for the Lord’s return. James 5:7-8

            Purify yourself. 1 John 3:3

            Keep watch—stay alert. Mark 13-32-33

            Practice faithfulness—Matthew 25:21, 23

            Preach the Word of God–2 Timothy 4:1-2

Friend, are you ready?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I am eagerly waiting for Your return. Help me to see areas in my life that I need to improve so that I can please You in all that I think, say and do. I want to be ready for Your return and to encourage others to Be Ready, too.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 12-13

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

For a worry free diet, eat like Jesus ate. His diet centered around foods of that Mediterranean area like fish, nuts, fruit, some honey, and whole grain breads. Make your desserts fresh fruits and nuts.

While dining with a ruler, pay attention to what is put before you. If you are a big eater, put a knife to your throat; don't desire all the delicacies, for he might be trying to trick you. Proverbs 23:1-3

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Humble Yourself

When Jesus noticed that all who had come to the dinner were trying to sit in the seats of honor near the head of the table, he gave them this advice: "When you are invited to a wedding feast, don't sit in the seat of honor. What if someone who is more distinguished than you has also been invited? The host will come and say, 'Give this person your seat.' Then you will be embarrassed, and you will have to take whatever seat is left at the foot of the table! "Instead, take the lowest place at the foot of the table. Then when your host sees you, he will come and say, 'Friend, we have a better place for you!' Then you will be honored in front of all the other guests. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." Luke 14:7-11 

Friend…sit in this seat of honor. Be humble. That reminds me a scripture passage in Philippians.

Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose. Don't be selfish; don't try to impress others. Be humble, thinking of others as better than yourselves. Don't look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too. You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had. Philippians 2:1-5

Don’t selfishly honor yourself and try to impress others. Think of others first…and take the seat furthest away from the head table. Choose the chair closest to the exit…or the noisy kitchen. No one wants that seat. To be humble is a very desirable quality.

The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God's help be encouraged. Psalm 69:32

For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." Luke 14:11

How can you humble yourself? Quietly look around…and as Paul said to the Philippians…think of others.

Prayer ~ Lord, please give me grace to humble myself before You and others that I would treat others the way I would personally treat You. May we exalt You above all else.

Daily Bible Reading: Luke 10

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Don’t Abandon Your Friend

Never abandon a friend—either yours or your father's. When disaster strikes, you won't have to ask your brother for assistance. It's better to go to a neighbor than to a brother who lives far away. Proverbs 27:10

Your friends may be prickly...but don't abandon them.
Prickly Pear - Utah

Treat others the way you want to be treated.

Do to others whatever you would like them to do to you. This is the essence of all that is taught in the law and the prophets. Matthew 7:12

The Golden Rule. You’d never want to be abandoned…so don’t abandon others—whether it is your friend or the friend of your parents. There is nothing sadder than being abandoned—whether it is a child, friend, spouse, parent, neighbor or a pet. A house…or farm homestead…left unattended for so many years that it is falling down is heartbreaking, too. Likely in the neglect of that house—people were forsaken, too.  

To go to a neighbor at a time of trouble, you’ve gotta have some kind of relationship with that neighbor. A relationship takes time to develop…interest, commitment, devotion. A sincere caring. That neighbor with whom you have a relationship is a friend you can turn to when disaster strikes. So Solomon has given good advice here in Proverbs. Don’t abandon your friends…turn to them.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You will work out your plans for my life--for your faithful love, O LORD, endures forever. Don't abandon me, for you made me. Psalm 138:8

Daily Bible Reading: John 9-10

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Log in Your Eye?

How can you think of saying, 'Friend, let me help you get rid of that speck in your eye,' when you can't see past the log in your own eye? Hypocrite! First get rid of the log in your own eye; then you will see well enough to deal with the speck in your friend's eye. Luke 6:42

I always thought this was a hilarious image...a log sticking out of someone’s eye. It is like a cartoon. I did a puppet story once using a log sticking out of the father’s eye—which you didn’t see until he put down his newspaper. He was giving advice…get that “speck” out of your life…that wrong thought or behavior. Then he puts down the paper…and there is the log in his eye. What a hypocrite! He had a greater sin in his life than anyone else—friends or family. Get rid of that log…sin, broken relationship, judgmental spirit, bad attitude, lust, or unforgiving spirit—whatever it may be. Then you can help some friend get that bincy, little speck out of their eye. Don’t get blind-sighted by that log.

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus, I humbly ask You to show me when and if I have a “log” in my eye. Sometimes I’m so self-centered that I don’t even see what is so obviously objectionable to You. Send me a friend who will point it out—and help me remove it from my life. Then I can help that friend with the speck in their eye.

Daily Bible Reading: John 7-8

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

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Restored Friendship

When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God's sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God's condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son. So now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God. Romans 5:6-11

Fruit from God's Garden

Our friendship with God was restored. That relationship was originally broken in the Garden of Eden when that wily serpent said “take this fruit and eat it.” We were doomed until Jesus came to earth to be the sacrifice for mankind. His death restored our relationship with God. It set things right-- We can once again walk in the Garden with God. But where is that Garden? Is it the spiritual garden of our hearts? The bond of friendship with God is a spiritual one…in our hearts. Rejoice in your new relationship with God. I “rejoice always” and give God thanks for all He has done for me…beginning with this restored relationship in my heart that gives me incredible peace.

Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again--rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do. Remember, the Lord is coming soon. Don't worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God's peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:4-7

Prayer ~ Jesus—I rejoice in Your love and sacrifice. Thank you.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 18

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

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Renewed Spirit and Body

Dear friends, we are already God's children, but he has not yet shown us what we will be like when Christ appears. But we do know that we will be like him, for we will see him as he really is. 1 John 3:2

Friends—Christian friends. John was addressing those who love God and are called His children. One day all God’s children will be like Jesus. Renewed. Does that mean our bodies will be renewed at the end of time? Remember Jesus after His resurrection. He wasn’t recognized by the disciples on the road to Emmaus. So was His physical body changed? The disciples in the Upper Room and at the Sea of Galilee recognized Him. Will our physical bodies change? Will we be our younger selves in Heaven? Some people have suggested that from stories and visions of loved ones in Heaven.

Put on your new nature, and be renewed as you learn to know your Creator and become like him. Colossians 3:10

Become like Christ.

So, as those who have been chosen of God, holy and beloved, put on a heart of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience; bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so also should you. Beyond all these things [put on] love, which is the perfect bond of unity. Colossians 3:12-14 NASB

Renewed...like a butterfly.

Paul also talks about spiritual renewal. We don’t have to wait until Christ returns for spiritual renew…it happens now every day. I think it is by choice. We are only open to spiritual growth and renewal if we study God’s word…and are open to applying it to our lives.

We know that God, who raised the Lord Jesus, will also raise us with Jesus and present us to himself together with you. All of this is for your benefit. And as God's grace reaches more and more people, there will be great thanksgiving, and God will receive more and more glory. That is why we never give up. Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day. 2 Corinthians 4:14-16

As a child of God are you seeking spiritual growth?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Create in me a clean heart, O God, And renew a steadfast spirit within me. Psalm 51:10 NASB. I look forward to a new body…as well as a renewed spirit.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 17; Mark 9

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

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Friendship in Your Home

Job continued speaking: "I long for the years gone by when God took care of me, when he lit up the way before me and I walked safely through the darkness. When I was in my prime, God's friendship was felt in my home." Job 29:1-4

Roosevelt's Home in New York

When I was in my prime…. Job’s words describing his early days…his younger years. Now he is older and struck down with devastation, loss, and hardships. He was definitely a blessed man—one who God had generously given abundant wealth with a healthy family, a productive farm, admiration of the people in his community where he helped the poor, lame and blind, and he had the council of the almighty God. God’s friendship. He had it all…and may have been a bit self-righteous. Now he’s lost it all…including the respect of those he had helped and his friends. Did he loose his friendship with God? God certainly allowed all this calamity to happen to Job. God allowed Satan to attack Job…all but his life (Job 2:6).

Do you feel like you have God’s friendship in your home? The notes in my Ryrie Study Bible say that the council of God guided Job’s home. Job realized that his fellowship with God was the center of his home. Fellowship with God. This passage in one of David’s Psalms depicts Job’s early life. Continue reading that Psalm…and you’ll see the affliction of David…and Job.

Who are those who fear the LORD? He will show them the path they should choose. They will live in prosperity, and their children will inherit the land. The LORD is a friend to those who fear him. He teaches them his covenant. My eyes are always on the LORD, for he rescues me from the traps of my enemies. Psalm 25:12-15

How can we have God’s friendship in our homes? Inviting Him into your heart…and your home is the first step. Is He welcome there?

Prayer ~ Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Psalm 25:4-6

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 16; Mark 8

© 2018 photo and text by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Rescued from the Power of Evil

Don't envy violent people or copy their ways. Such wicked people are detestable to the LORD, but he offers his friendship to the godly. Proverbs 3:31-32

Jesus offers his friendship to the godly. Can you hear that song in the back of your mind…What a Friend We Have in Jesus? He’s the bestiest friend anyone could have! That may not be the best grammar, but the message is the best! We who live to please Him…who want to walk in His ways…those who are godly—seeking God with all their heart, soul, mind and strength may be considered His friends.

Solomon offered such wise advice to not envy violent people or copy their ways. We become like those we hang out with. That’s why we tell our children and grandchildren to be careful who they choose as friends. Violent people…whether it is physical violence or an abusive tongue…are not good role models or “friends”. Consider more of Solomon’s wisdom…

The words of the godly are a life-giving fountain; the words of the wicked conceal violent intentions. Proverbs 10:11

Violent people mislead their companions, leading them down a harmful path. Proverbs 16:29

Here’s another promise from God to claim day by day. Claim it and feel the love of God protecting you. What a friend we have to rescue and protect us.

You who love the LORD, hate evil! He protects the lives of his godly people and rescues them from the power of the wicked. Psalm 97:10

Do you treat your friends like Jesus treats you?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. You direct the steps of the godly. You delight in every detail of our lives. Psalm 37:23. Thank you.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 15; Mark 7

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It is soup weather again—and time for a combination of my favorites…fish tacos and soup.

Mick’s Taco Fish Soup                                 8 servings

8 corn tortillas, cut into 1/2 inch strips

Vegetable oil for frying

Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and chili powder

2 pounds fish fillets, red snapper or cod is a good choice

¼ tsp cumin powder, or more if desired

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

2 limes, juiced, plus lime wedges for garnish

1 pablano chili (mild) or serrano chili (if you prefer-hot), chopped

3 cups vegetable broth with ½ tsp thyme, 2 bay leaves, and two cloves chopped garlic

6 cups boiling water

1 green onion, sliced, for garnish

4 ripe tomatoes, cut into chunks, for garnish

2 ripe avocados, peeled and cut into chunks, for garnish

Cilantro leaves, for garnish

Cut up the fish into pieces about 1” by 2”, sprinkle with cumin, cover with chopped chili pepper, drizzle with the lime juice and olive oil and set aside in the refrigerator to marinate about 15 minutes while you chop the green onion, tomato, and avocado.  

For the tortillas: Heat about 1/4-inch vegetable oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Cut the tortillas into 1/2-inch wide strips. Fry the tortilla strips in batches and drain them on paper towels; season with salt, pepper and chili powder while they are still hot. 

For the soup: Heat the broth, water and seasonings to boil and simmer until the meat and vegetable are in the bowls. Saute the marinated fish over medium heat for a few minutes, using the lime-oil marinate. Cook just until the fish are no longer raw, but not falling apart.

Divide the fish equally into eight servings and place each in the bottom of a large soup bowl. Top with some onion, tomato, avocado, and cilantro leaves. Ladle in the hot broth and squeeze in a lime wedge. Top with tortilla strips. Serve and enjoy.

© 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.

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Gather Friends Together with Jesus Christ

Jesus said…"I also tell you this: If two of you agree here on earth concerning anything you ask, my Father in heaven will do it for you. For where two or three gather together as my followers, I am there among them." Matthew 18:19-20

Jesus promised…He is with us when two or more are gathered together. Friends together. Gather together…and pray. He has promised to not abandon us. He is with us…ahead of us, with us, behind us…always.

Gather together.

Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:8 (& Hebrews 13:5)

Don’t be afraid. Fear is a powerful emotion.

Don't be afraid of those who want to kill your body; they cannot touch your soul. Fear only God, who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Matthew 10:28

The soul is the important thing…. It is forever. For everyone. As the Hebrew people were taught by Moses after God gave them the Ten Commandments….

These are the commands, decrees, and regulations that the LORD your God commanded me to teach you. You must obey them in the land you are about to enter and occupy, and you and your children and grandchildren must fear the LORD your God as long as you live. If you obey all his decrees and commands, you will enjoy a long life. Listen closely, Israel, and be careful to obey. Then all will go well with you, and you will have many children in the land flowing with milk and honey, just as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, promised you. Listen, O Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD alone. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. And you must commit yourselves wholeheartedly to these commands that I am giving you today. Repeat them again and again to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Deuteronomy 6:1-7

Love means doing what God has commanded us, and he has commanded us to love one another, just as you heard from the beginning. 2 John 1:6

Love God…love others. Give God the respect and love He deserves. Fear…is respect.

Sound the alarm in Jerusalem! Raise the battle cry on my holy mountain! Let everyone tremble in fear because the day of the LORD is upon us. Joel 2:1

Prayer ~ Lord God, I love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. Help me to follow Your commandments and to love those around me…as I love You and myself.

Daily Bible Reading: John 6

© 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.

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Friends Form Bonds

Then David took an oath before Jonathan and said, "Your father knows perfectly well about our friendship, so he has said to himself, 'I won't tell Jonathan--why should I hurt him?' But I swear to you that I am only a step away from death! I swear it by the LORD and by your own soul!" "Tell me what I can do to help you," Jonathan exclaimed. David replied, "Tomorrow we celebrate the new moon festival. I've always eaten with the king on this occasion, but tomorrow I'll hide in the field and stay there until the evening of the third day. If your father asks where I am, tell him I asked permission to go home to Bethlehem for an annual family sacrifice. If he says, 'Fine!' you will know all is well. But if he is angry and loses his temper, you will know he is determined to kill me. Show me this loyalty as my sworn friend--for we made a solemn pact before the LORD--or kill me yourself if I have sinned against your father. But please don't betray me to him!" "Never!" Jonathan exclaimed. "You know that if I had the slightest notion my father was planning to kill you, I would tell you at once." ... And may the LORD make us keep our promises to each other, for he has witnessed them." ... At last Jonathan said to David, "Go in peace, for we have sworn loyalty to each other in the LORD's name. The LORD is the witness of a bond between us and our children forever." Then David left, and Jonathan returned to the town. 1 Samuel 20:3-9, 23, 42

Friends form bonds. Look at the relationship of David and Jonathan, son of King Saul. Right after the shepherd boy, David, killed the giant Philistine, Goliath, David met Jonathan.

After David had finished talking with Saul, he met Jonathan, the king's son. There was an immediate bond between them, for Jonathan loved David. From that day on Saul kept David with him and wouldn't let him return home. And Jonathan made a solemn pact with David, because he loved him as he loved himself. Jonathan sealed the pact by taking off his robe and giving it to David, together with his tunic, sword, bow, and belt. 1 Samuel 18:1-4

The "Bow" in the sky was God's promise.
A covenant promise to all the people of the world.j

Giving someone your tunic or robe, belt, and weapon was a significant part of a covenant in Old Testament times. As James L, Garlow explains in his book The Covenant, the first step in making a covenant was the exchanging of robes and identities. The next step was to exchange belts and thus to exchange strength. Next was the exchange of weapons, likely hanging from the military belt, which signified a willingness to protect each other. By giving these things to David, Jonathan was making a covenant of friendship with him. Jonathan’s devotion to David was evident when he helped him escape from King Saul’s wrath. David pleaded with Jonathan not to betray him to Jonathan’s father. 

This covenant extended to their families and later after Jonathan dies, David takes care of Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth, who frequently ate at King David’s table. David kept his promise of loyalty to Jonathan. That bond extended between them and their children… forever. You can read the detail about David’s life in First and Second Samuel and in First Chronicles.  

Have you formed bonds with your friends? What hold those relationships together? Is it an unspoken promise—or have you actually verbally made a commitment with particular friends? Does this bond include a relationship with Jesus?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help me to have honest conversations with friends that allow our bonds to be strong and centered on You.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 14; Mark 6; Luke 9

© 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.

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What Does It Take To Be A Friend of God?

O our God, did you not drive out those who lived in this land when your people Israel arrived? And did you not give this land forever to the descendants of your friend Abraham? 2 Chronicles 20:7

Jehoshaphat, king of Judah, spoke to the people of Judah before the Temple in Jerusalem and prayed this prayer…this scripture…to God. He called Abraham a friend of God. Other places in the Bible note that same thing—as I wrote on October 1^st in this blog.

But as for you, Israel my servant, Jacob my chosen one, descended from Abraham my friend…. Isaiah 41:8

And so it happened just as the Scriptures say: "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith." He was even called the friend of God. James 2:23

God and Abraham didn’t start out to be “friends” but their relationship developed into a friendship. What does it take to be a friend of God? Obedience. That was what Abraham offered to his friendship with God. God offered the Promised Land…here on earth and in heaven. God showed Abraham the night sky filled with stars and said that Abraham would have that many descendants someday. Without any children at that point in his life, Abraham just had to trust God for His promise. Do you think that he may have doubted God? His wife Sarai, later known as Sarah, certainly did. She laughed. She was an old woman—and who’d thought that she could have a child? God did. Never doubt. Anything is possible with God. That takes faith to believe. "Abraham believed God, and God counted him as righteous because of his faith." So faith was part of their relationship…and their friendship.

As you ride across the desert--never stop praying.

What does it take to be a friend? Trust and faith in each other. A willingness to spend time together. God and Abraham spent time together. Imagine all that time that Abraham spent riding his camel along the rivers and across the desert from Haran to the Promised Land (see Genesis 11 and 12) as he obediently went where God told him to go. Do you think Abraham talked to God along the way? We are told to pray constantly. That is “talking” to God.

Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

You have to talk…and listen to those around you to become friends. The same thing applies to becoming a friend of God.

What does it take to become of friend of God? Spend time with Him. Be obedient to His Word and faithful to living the way He wants you to live. Like Abraham, you’ll become known as a friend of God.

Prayer ~ Lord God, continue to fill my heart, soul, mind and give me strength as I seek to know You more…and become Your friend.

Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 10

© 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.

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