Banquet With The King

Daily Devotional focusing on spiritual "food" at the King's Banquet Table. In 2024 this blog will explore verses to meditate on as we examine our "choices" daily, pursuing a deeper relationship with God as we grow in Christian maturity. This web page has had over 230,000 page views by people in over 135 different countries who are seeking God through His Word. God has promised if you seek Him, you will find Him. May you be blessed reading Banquet With The King.

Friday, November 30, 2018

Are You Walking on the Highway to Holiness?

Because we have these promises, dear friends, let us cleanse ourselves from everything that can defile our body or spirit. And let us work toward complete holiness because we fear God. 2 Corinthians 7:1

These promises…. Sometimes we have to look back at the previous verses to see just what Paul…or another author…was saying. What promises?

And what union can there be between God's temple and idols? For we are the temple of the living God. As God said: "I will live in them and walk among them. I will be their God, and they will be my people. Therefore, come out from among unbelievers, and separate yourselves from them, says the LORD. Don't touch their filthy things, and I will welcome you. And I will be your Father, and you will be my sons and daughters, says the LORD Almighty." 2 Corinthians 6:16-18

God has promised to be our Father—that we will be His sons and daughters. What a great promise! I can’t image anything greater. For Him to live and walk among us—what a privilege and a joy! All He wants for us to do is separate ourselves from unbelievers…at least that is what He was asking the church at Corinth to do. We can minister to non-believers, but not be a part of them…of their way of life…following their idols. There in Second Corinthians Seven, Paul is teaching that we should cleanse ourselves and work toward complete holiness out of respect for God. How are you doing with that? Are you called to Holiness? Isaiah gives a great picture of this Highway of Holiness.

And a great road will go through that once deserted land. It will be named the Highway of Holiness. Evil-minded people will never travel on it. It will be only for those who walk in God's ways; fools will never walk there. Isaiah 35:8

God shares His holiness with us…as we walk in obedience to Him as Paul did.

We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. 2 Corinthians 1:12

Although the verse in Matthew below talks about seeking God’s righteousness…it applies to right living before God…in His holiness.

Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. Matthew 6:33

People seeking God at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem.

Seek God and His Kingdom first in your life. Good advice…and that came from Jesus Himself.

Prayer ~ Jesus, You told us to Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and You will give us everything we need. Matthew 6:33. I’m trusting You for that. Help others to see this promise…and seek You first in their lives. Show them how to get rid of idols…drugs and anger…and provide for them the basic things that they need in life. How do we help the destitute…the forgotten?

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 5-8

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Time to start thinking about Christmas goodies. This is one of my sister’s favorites that she made especially for our folks…and all the adults enjoyed them. Grandma shooed the kiddos away. Those were grown-up only goodies. Eat in moderation.

Bourbon Balls

2 Tbsp powdered cocoa

1½ powdered sugar

1 cup broken or chopped pecans

1/3 cup bourbon

2 Tbsp light corn syrup, or agave syrup

2 ½ cups finely crushed vanilla wafers

Sift together cocoa and one cup of the powdered sugar. Combine bourbon with syrup and sir into sugar-cocoa mixture. Add crushed vanilla wafers and pecans. Mix thoroughly and roll dough into smooth balls. Sprinkle with remaining powdered sugar. This will make 5-6 dozen depending on the size of the balls.

I think I’ll make some of these soon—to honor my sister, our folks and Vicki, who would have been 43 years old today. If she were here Grandma wouldn’t shoo her away from the goodies for grown-ups.

Happy Heavenly Birthday to Vicki Marie~

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

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Only 25 Days Until Christmas

Thursday, November 29, 2018

Enjoy Your Grandchildren!

May you live to enjoy your grandchildren. May Israel have peace! Psalm 128:6.

As I’ve talked to friends I’ve realized that not everyone remembers their grandparents. Some just didn’t live that long. Even my youngest brother probably doesn’t have many memories of our paternal grandfather, although he remembers going to Granddad and Grandma’s house after kindergarten until Mom or Dad could pick him up. He was six when Granddad died. Our family lived only a couple of miles from those grandparents, but we really didn’t spend a lot of time together. We were too noisy…or at least I was too noisy. I went over to Granddad and Grandma’s house once a week after school and I as I got bigger I helped Grandma with gardening, weeding and cleaning projects. She always had something for me to do. I even painted the entire house outside one summer. I was slow—so it took me the entire summer. I was one of 16 grandchildren…so why was I painting the house alone? Eventually one of my brothers and Dad got involved—just to get the project done! I like to think that Grandma enjoyed having my help.

Enjoy your grandchildren. What do you like to do? One of my favorite times this past year was taking three of my grands on a wildflower adventure. We identified at least twenty different wildflowers while hiking on a nearby mountain. We only went partway up the mountain since I told Julia—who was barely three—we’ll only hike until you are halfway tired so we can make it back down to the car. She was a great trooper. Never complaining! It was a fun morning! I also love doing baking projects, creating crafts and painting with my grandchildren. They love to “play” the piano…and just play with puppets, cars and toys, too. And of course, they love to build Legos with Grandpa. Summertime is for the sandbox, digging in the dirt and climbing trees at my house—and then we can always head for the nearby park with swings and slides or go to the River for floating or kayaking. I hope that we’re creating wonderful memories for them. Alongside those are some special times of church activities and just attending church together…and always reading Bible stories. Yes. I enjoy all of my grandchildren. They bring joy to my life…and I have hope for their future. A future with a growing relationship with the Lord. That is what life is all about.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, continue to work in the lives of my grandchildren—blessing them with a deeper knowledge, understanding and a desire to know You more. May You give each of my friends and neighbors a great relationship with their grandchildren…and with You. You are the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6).

Daily Bible Reading: 1 Corinthians 1-4

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

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Only 26 Days Until Christmas

Wednesday, November 28, 2018

God’s Promise to 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

Israeli Flag flying over the Sea of Galilee.
Flying over the nation of Israel.

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.

Read this text in context. God is talking about when He will bring His people back into the land of Israel. That is what has been happening for the last seventy 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.

A clean heart will renew our relationship with the Lord…and with others around us. What a great “gift” at the beginning of this Christmas season. Good relationships.

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: Acts 18-19

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

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Only 27 Days Until Christmas

Tuesday, November 27, 2018

Harvest What You Plant

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

Did you harvest tomatoes?

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.

And don't forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. Hebrews 13:16

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

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

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Only 28 Days Until Christmas

Monday, November 26, 2018

Prisoner of Sin…of 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 these ancient anchors holding you captive in 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 summations 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

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

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Only 29 Days Until Christmas

Sunday, November 25, 2018

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 mind." 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

This verse in the NLT says...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 Birthday Andrew!

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

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Only 30 Days Until Christmas

Saturday, November 24, 2018

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

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 driver’s 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.

Purity of Endurance--Like a Crown

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. Subconsciously 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 appearances.

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 testing and temptations.

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

Daily Bible Reading: Galatians 1-3

Happy Birthday, Marv

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

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Only 31 Days Until Christmas

Friday, November 23, 2018

Are Troubles Coming Your Way?

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

Meet Trouble

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: Acts 15-16

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Since Thanksgiving is over…and we are all looking forward to the next big holiday…Christmas…it is time to reevaluate our diet…or eating and drinking habits again. I’m trying out a few recipes to add to my routine repertoire—as we all have favorites that we repeat time and again. New favorites that are particularly healthy are good. I’m considering the Paleo Diet since I have found that my body is just healthier—less arthritis pain and more energy with a wheat-free or grain-free eating plan. I’m also reducing sugar, and restricting, if not totally eliminating, dairy products.

Still the most important part of my diet is water. Clean, clear water. It seems most refreshing when it is cold, but I have been reading from multiple sources than room or body temperature water is best--especially at the beginning of the day. Help your body flush out the toxins. Water--plain and pure--is best for that rather than any beverage, coffee or even herbal tea. So drink up. I am.

Do you take fresh clean water for granted? We just turn on the tap and there it is. What about people in areas where there is not fresh water? Some children can't even go to school because they have to spend their time carrying water from a well miles from their village. As you are considering year end giving think about families who don't have the luxury of fresh water in places like India, Pakistan and Thailand. World Vision and Global Gateway Network are reliable organizations to administer money for well drilling, literacy and homes for orphaned children. God provides so generously for us--so we can help others. Think of others as you sip some clean clear water.

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

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Only 32 Days Until Christmas

Thursday, November 22, 2018

Be Thankful…and Peaceful

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 to You and to our Heavenly Father. Personally, today I am singing with a thankful heart.

Daily Bible Reading: James

Happy Birthday, Barry!

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

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Only 33 Days Until Christmas

Wednesday, November 21, 2018

The People Were Not Herod’s Friends

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

Do you think you are more beautiful than this butterfly?
Do you think more highly of yourself than others?

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 worshiped—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)

Thinking 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 with 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

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

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Only 34 Days Until Christmas

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

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

Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese garden - Manito Park
Spokane, Washington
Are we crossing over the bridge...into the Garden of Eden?

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 the 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 for 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

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

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Only 35 Days Until Christmas

Monday, November 19, 2018

Pray for the Peace of Jerusalem

PRAY

Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper. O Jerusalem, may there be peace within your walls and prosperity in your palaces. For the sake of my family and friends, I will say, "May you have peace." For the sake of the house of the LORD our God, I will seek what is best for you, O Jerusalem. Psalm 122:6-9

Peace. There are 361 verses on peace in the New Living Translation. That is almost enough for a verse a day of just peace! Peace…harmony, reconciliation, calm, goodwill, quiet, stillness, tranquility, contentment or serenity. It is a state of mind that is not stressed. Or can you feel peace even when stressed? If Jesus is in control of your life…then there will be peace. Breath in—breath out. Life in…stress out. Let go of it and let God rule. Yes. That does bring peace.

But peace in itself can be an elusive thing. We can’t have peace just for the sake of peace. Even Jesus didn’t claim that He came to give peace.

Do you think I have come to bring peace to the earth? No, I have come to divide people against each other! Luke 12:51

Jesus came to stir things up. God doesn’t want us to love our family or friends more than we love Him. He has declared that He is a jealous god. We must take up our cross and follow Jesus (Matthew 10:38) not following our own goals and desires—but giving up what we want to follow Him and His ways. Can you do that?

As we’re getting ready to celebrate the Advent and Christmas season soon, remember the verse…

For a child is born to us, a son is given to us. The government will rest on his shoulders. And he will be called: Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Prince of Peace…that is Jesus--our Messiah. He brings contentment into our lives and gives us a serenity—that we can choose to pass on to others. Peace is a wonderful gift to receive and one that is worth giving to others. How can we give that to others? Tell them about Jesus and what He has done in your life. Let them experience His peace, love and joy for themselves. Seek His peace—seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. So family and friends around the world...and in Jerusalem—May you have peace.

Prayer ~ Jesus, I trust you with each of my family, friends and all of Jerusalem today that You will touch their lives—healing, strengthening, and protecting them, as well as helping them to make good decisions and giving them Your peace.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 9-10

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

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Only 36 Days Until Christmas

Sunday, November 18, 2018

Don’t Gossip or Speak Against Your Friends

Who may worship in your sanctuary, LORD? Who may enter your presence on your holy hill? Those who lead blameless lives and do what is right, speaking the truth from sincere hearts. Those who refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Those who despise flagrant sinners, and honor the faithful followers of the LORD, and keep their promises even when it hurts. Those who lend money without charging interest, and who cannot be bribed to lie about the innocent. Such people will stand firm forever. Psalm 15:1-5

Hollyhocks in Israel
Who can worship on the Lord's Holy Hill?

Refuse to gossip or harm their neighbors or speak evil of their friends. Is that how someone would describe you? It is so easy to get caught up in gossip. A conversation may start about the weather—that is always a safe topic and one about which everyone has an opinion. But soon the chatter may go to what so and so is doing…how they treat their husband, children, parents, neighbors, co-workers, friends or church family. Is that a good conversation which will bring glory to God? I think not. Don’t get involved. In his great wisdom Solomon wrote some good advice about gossiping in Proverbs.

A gossip goes around telling secrets, but those who are trustworthy can keep a confidence. Proverbs 11:13 (Be that trustworthy friend.)

A troublemaker plants seeds of strife; gossip separates the best of friends. Proverbs 16:28

(Plant seeds of encouragement to grow in your friendships.)

Others may accuse you of gossip, and you will never regain your good reputation. Proverbs 25:10 (Don’t gossip—so you won’t be accused of it.)

One of my favorite verses encourages everyone to think about good things. That is the best thing to do—for yourself and for your family, friends and neighbors.

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8

Think about the good and what is pleasing to the Lord. That is my goal for today…for every day. What about you?

Prayer ~ Jesus, You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. I am determined not to sin in what I say. I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you. I am praying to you because I know you will answer, O God. Bend down and listen as I pray. Show me your unfailing love in wonderful ways. By your mighty power you rescue those who seek refuge from their enemies. Psalm 17:3-7

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 7-8

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

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Only 37 Days Until Christmas

Saturday, November 17, 2018

Restored Relationships

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

Friends. Friendships. Relationships. You can’t have one without the other. No relationship with God, with Jesus, with the Holy Spirit…or with any people is without some level of love and friendship. Even in a strained relationship there is a physical or emotional attachment.

The Western Wall - known as The Wailing Wall
Jerusalem
Praying for Restoration of Peace in Relationships

Restore—that is a great word. There are so many times that things…people’s health, fortunes, belongings, relationships, walls, and the Temple…are restored in the Bible. I love it when Job’s friends think that his problems stem from sin. If only they could see like we do that Job’s tribulations exist because of Satan’s attack…not Job’s sin or attitude. At one point Job’s friend Eliphaz just tells him to straighten out his life.

If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored—so clean up your life. Job 22:23

Has there been a time in your life when you have had something restored? Did you ask God for help…for that restoration? Or did you see God at work in that change? Was there a person…a friend…who helped you in reestablishing a relationship, like Jesus did in reinstating mankind’s relationship—individually and corporately—with God? What a friend we have in Jesus. Are you a friend like that to someone…or is someone a friend like that to you? Like Job’s friend said…return to the Almighty. Make sure your relationship with God is in good condition. Then as Paul wrote to the church at Rome…now we can rejoice in our wonderful new relationship with God because our Lord Jesus Christ has made us friends of God. Rejoice—celebrate your relationship with God.

Prayer ~ Jesus, Thank you for restoring to me the joy of Your salvation, and helping me to be willing to obey You. Psalm 51:12.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 4-6

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

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Only 38 Days Until Christmas

Friday, November 16, 2018

Beloved…Love One Another

Dear friends, let us continue to love one another, for love comes from God. Anyone who loves is a child of God and knows God. But anyone who does not love does not know God, for God is love. 1 John 4:7-8

Years ago my daughter sang this scripture in a kids’ drama “Psalty” at the Sheppard Air Force Base Chapel in Wichita Falls, Texas. Memorizing scripture to music is such a good idea and the kids didn’t even realize that was what they were doing as they sang the songs for the musical. It was a fun story—encouraging love and acceptance while it was teaching children how to worship Jesus from their hearts. Such a good faith building experience…and my daughter sings those same songs with her children now.

Beloved, let us love one another....

The Heart of Love

What is more important than love? Nothing. Love is the most important thing in life—and God is love. I remember my Mom telling me that…God is love. She was a loving person—showing God’s love by caring about others. Listening and loving. How do you show your love to others? If you’ve read or heard of the book The 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman and Ross Campbell you know that we each feel and show love in five basic ways, thus the five languages. Physical Touch. Words of Affirmation. Quality Time. Gifts. Acts of Service. These can be applied to adults, children and teens.

We learn love from our family and friends…and this is a time of the year that we are thankful for them and for God…for everything.

Dear brothers and sisters, we can't help but thank God for you, because your faith is flourishing and your love for one another is growing. 2 Thessalonians 1:3

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. In addition…let me think of ways to motivate myself and others to acts of love and good works. Hebrews 10:24.

Daily Bible Reading: Acts 1-3

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Only 39 Days Until Christmas. Time to start thinking about Fruit Cake! Years ago I made a fruitcake that had to be soaked in brandy for 60 days. It was very strong! I don’t think I ever tried that again…ever.

My Mom always made fruitcake cookies at Christmas time—mostly I think for her friends and bridge club, but for my Dad, too. He really enjoyed them. A few years ago I was going through her recipe cards and found her recipe…a bit yellowed and stained with age. Here it is for you to try out…and enjoy if you like fruitcake.

Fruitcake Cookies

4 cups flour, sifted

1 tsp soda

1 tsp salt

1 cup vegetable shortening

2 cups brown sugar, packed

2 eggs

2/3 cup buttermilk or sour milk

1 cup chopped pecans

1 cup candied cherries, cut in quarters

2 cups dates, cut up

2 4-oz cans (1 cup) candied fruits and peels

Red or green candied cherries as garnish (optional)

Mix flour, soda and salt. (Mom sifted again—but just stir together well.) In another bowl cream shortening, add sugar and eggs. Beat until light and fluffy. Add buttermilk and flour. Add nuts, cherries, dated and candied fruit. Mix well. Chill dough for several hours.

Drop by teaspoonfuls about 2 inches apart on lightly greased (or parchment covered) cookie sheet. Top each cookie with a half of candied cherry. Bake at 375 degrees for 8 – 10 minutes. Make 8 dozen cookies.

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

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Only 39 Days Until Christmas