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.

Wednesday, June 30, 2021

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Meditate. Consider the changes in your live and how you’ve adapted.

Do you want to build some bigger silos?

Then he said, "Beware! Guard against every kind of greed. Life is not measured by how much you own." Then he 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 12:15-21

This is the last day of June…now the year 2021 is half gone. What will you make of the next six months? It is up to you. We all have choices to make…or to procrastinate and not make! Those choices can be real turning points in our lives. What will you choose today—whom will you choose to serve? Will you build bigger barns and then eat, drink and be merry? Jesus’ advice, as recorded here by Luke…a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God. How’s your relationship with God these days?

Prayer ~ Lord God, I am taking a lesson from the ants and learning from their ways. I want to become wise! Though they have no prince or governor or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter. From Proverbs 6:6-8. Spiritually I want to gather up “food” and store it in my heart for the tough times ahead. Then I can eat, drink and be joyful—praising You all day long.

Verse of Salvation ~ 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. Isaiah 51:5

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

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Tuesday, June 29, 2021

Time and Commitment

Meditate. Consider the amount of time you spend with the Lord.

Walking on a South Carolina beach.

The earth is the LORD's, and everything in it. The world and all its people belong to him. For he laid the earth's foundation on the seas and built it on the ocean depths. Who may climb the mountain of the LORD? Who may stand in his holy place? Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the LORD's blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Psalm 24:1-5

A right relationship with God their Savior. Do you have that right relationship? How do you get that? Time and commitment. Sounds simple. Spend time with the Lord every day. Time reading His Word…time praying. If you give a tithe of ten percent of your money back to the Lord, can you give ten percent of your time back to Him, too? OK…let’s not get legalistic about this, but do you think it should be ten percent of your waking hours—not ten percent of each 24-hour day. The waking hours…16 hours a day would mean that 96 minutes of tithe time. One hour and thirty-six minutes. That is a long time for most people. How long do you spend in any relationship with any family or friends on a daily basis? You likely eat meals with someone, but is it quality time that is spent really focusing on each other’s lives? How are your relationships with those family members and friends?

This scripture passage focuses on everything belonging to the Lord question and asks a question about who can stand before the Lord…in His holy place? This side of the cross all ground can be holy ground…where we meet the Lord, not just the Holy of Holies in a Temple that once stood in Jerusalem. Who can stand in His holy place? David answers that with… Only those whose hands and hearts are pure, who do not worship idols and never tell lies. They will receive the LORD's blessing and have a right relationship with God their savior. Pure hearts and hands. Those who don’t worship idols or lie. Pretty specific. It goes along with the commandment that we should love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul and mind…and our neighbor as ourself. Loving God would mean to worship Him only…not an idol. If we love ourselves and our neighbor, there would be no lies involved—not even those little white ones. Purity before the Lord…and ourselves.

Back to those 96 minutes. Can you do it? Try it for one day—maybe break it up into three parts of 30-32 minutes each. Morning, midday and evening? Just think…when you drink eight glasses of water, you don’t drink it all at one time. So maybe “drinking” in God’s word would be best done in smaller sips so that you could meditate on it. Just a thought. I consider my blogging time my time with the Lord…and sometimes a spend hours blogging…reading different scriptures. I pray for others…but I know I could improve on that too—more focused time. Let this be a mid-year challenge. Let us draw closer to the Lord and build a deeper relationship with Him. All it takes is time and commitment.

Prayer ~ Lord…May I receive the Your blessing and have a right relationship with You, my savior. From Psalm 24:5.

Verses of Salvation ~ Did God's people stumble and fall beyond recovery? Of course not! They were disobedient, so God made salvation available to the Gentiles. But he wanted his own people to become jealous and claim it for themselves. Now if the Gentiles were enriched because the people of Israel turned down God's offer of salvation, think how much greater a blessing the world will share when they finally accept it. Romans 11:11-12

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

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Monday, June 28, 2021

Focus on God’s Word

Meditate. Reread all of Psalm 119. Consider what the Lord is saying to you through that Psalm and how you can apply it to your life.

Joyful are people of integrity, who follow the instructions of the LORD. ...Be good to your servant, that I may live and obey your word. Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions. ... Give me understanding and I will obey your instructions; I will put them into practice with all my heart. ... Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word. ...Remember your promise to me; it is my only hope. ... Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. ... Give discernment to me, your servant; then I will understand your laws. ... O LORD, I have longed for your rescue, and your instructions are my delight. Psalm 119:1, 17-18, 34, 37, 49, 105, 125, 174

We just finished looking at Psalm 119, written in a format that each line with a section begins with a letter of the Hebrew alphabet as an alphabetic acrostic. We lose something in the translation. Can you imagine describing the Lord and your relationship to Him almost poetically in each of several stanza starting with the same letter of our alphabet? Describe God using the letter A: Awesome, Astonishing, Almighty, Adventurous, Anchor, Available, Authoritarian, Adoring, All-knowing.

Ezra, as he wrote Psalm 119, focused on God’s word and understanding it. He repeatedly pleaded with God to allow him to know His sweet words, help him keep his attention on God’s commandments, and to fight his enemies. He expresses his love for God’s word. Like Ezra, I love God’s word—I love to dig into it and see the relationships between Old and New Testament passages. What do you see that you identify with and can apply to your life?

Model of Herod's Temple in the city of Jerusalem.

In a Bible study group I’ve been studying the books of Ezra and Nehemiah who returned from the exile to Babylon to rebuild the Holy Temple and the walls surrounding Jerusalem. I see the Temple as representative of the Temple we have in our hearts for the Holy Spirit. Do you need to rebuild the Temple in your heart as a home for the Holy Spirit?

Prayer ~ Lord…just as was written in a psalm of the descendants of Korah. Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, everyone in the world! High and low, rich and poor--listen! For my words are wise, and my thoughts are filled with insight. I listen carefully to many proverbs and solve riddles with inspiration from a harp. Why should I fear when trouble comes, when enemies surround me? They trust in their wealth and boast of great riches. Yet they cannot redeem themselves from death by paying a ransom to God. Redemption does not come so easily, for no one can ever pay enough to live forever and never see the grave. Those who are wise must finally die, just like the foolish and senseless, leaving all their wealth behind. The grave is their eternal home, where they will stay forever. They may name their estates after themselves, but their fame will not last. They will die, just like animals. Psalm 49:1-12. I have no fear of death when You are with me, Lord—and You have promised to always be with me. Thank You.

Verses of Salvation ~ Understand this, my dear brothers and sisters: You must all be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to get angry. Human anger does not produce the righteousness God desires. So get rid of all the filth and evil in your lives, and humbly accept the word God has planted in your hearts, for it has the power to save your souls. James 1:19-21 (Underlined for emphasis.)

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Start your mid-year with a family devotional focusing on God's word.

Sunday, June 27, 2021

Baa, Baa, Black Sheep

Meditate. Are you ever like a lost sheep?

ת‎ [Taw] O LORD, listen to my cry; give me the discerning mind you promised. Listen to my prayer; rescue me as you promised. Let praise flow from my lips, for you have taught me your decrees. Let my tongue sing about your word, for all your commands are right. Give me a helping hand, for I have chosen to follow your commandments. O LORD, I have longed for your rescue, and your instructions are my delight. Let me live so I can praise you, and may your regulations help me. I have wandered away like a lost sheep; come and find me, for I have not forgotten your commands. Psalm 119:169-176

I have wandered away like a lost sheep; come and find me…. Ezra is pleading with the Lord. Do you sometimes feel like a lost sheep, too? More is written by the prophet Ezekiel about lost sheep, the Israelites, God’s chosen people. God will care for His sheep.

Sheep in Israel

As surely as I live, says the Sovereign LORD, you abandoned my flock and left them to be attacked by every wild animal. And though you were my shepherds, you didn't search for my sheep when they were lost. You took care of yourselves and left the sheep to starve. Therefore, you shepherds, hear the word of the LORD. ... "For this is what the Sovereign LORD says: I myself will search and find my sheep. I will be like a shepherd looking for his scattered flock. I will find my sheep and rescue them from all the places where they were scattered on that dark and cloudy day. I will bring them back home to their own land of Israel from among the peoples and nations. I will feed them on the mountains of Israel and by the rivers and in all the places where people live. Yes, I will give them good pastureland on the high hills of Israel. There they will lie down in pleasant places and feed in the lush pastures of the hills. I myself will tend my sheep and give them a place to lie down in peace, says the Sovereign LORD. Ezekiel 34:8-9, 11-15

The Israelites are compared with sheep in the prophesies from God through Jeremiah.

"My people have been lost sheep. Their shepherds have led them astray and turned them loose in the mountains. They have lost their way and can't remember how to get back to the sheepfold. ... "The Israelites are like sheep that have been scattered by lions. First the king of Assyria ate them up. Then King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon cracked their bones." Jeremiah 50:6, 17

God is pictured as the great shepherd in the well known Psalm 23.

The LORD is my shepherd; I have all that I need. He lets me rest in green meadows; he leads me beside peaceful streams. He renews my strength. He guides me along right paths, bringing honor to his name. Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me. You prepare a feast for me in the presence of my enemies. You honor me by anointing my head with oil. My cup overflows with blessings. Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever. Psalm 23:1-6 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Remember the parable that Jesus told about a lost sheep and the importance of that one sheep to the shepherd. God sees each of us as that one sheep…at some point in our lives. He doesn’t want anyone to perish.

If a man has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders away, what will he do? Won't he leave the ninety-nine others on the hills and go out to search for the one that is lost? And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he will rejoice over it more than over the ninety-nine that didn't wander away! In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father's will that even one of these little ones should perish. Matthew 18:12-14

Are you ever like that lost sheep? Do you need God to find you? Call out to Him. If you seek Him, you will find Him.

Prayer ~ Lord, I am seeking You, while I can find You. I’m calling on You now while You are near. From Isaiah 55:6. You are my shepherd…I am following You. Lead in Your way…everlasting. Thank You. I praise You.

Verses of Salvation ~ The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving. The LORD gives his people strength. He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. Save your people! Bless Israel, your special possession. Lead them like a shepherd, and carry them in your arms forever. Psalm 28:7-9

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Saturday, June 26, 2021

Do You Praise the Lord Seven Times a Day?

Meditate. Where do you find peace in God’s word?

ש‎ [Shin] Powerful people harass me without cause, but my heart trembles only at your word. I rejoice in your word like one who discovers a great treasure. I hate and abhor all falsehood, but I love your instructions. I will praise you seven times a day because all your regulations are just. Those who love your instructions have great peace and do not stumble. I long for your rescue, LORD, so I have obeyed your commands. I have obeyed your laws, for I love them very much. Yes, I obey your commandments and laws because you know everything I do. Psalm 119:161-168

As seen in Jerusalem.

I will praise you seven times a day because all your regulations are just. Seven times a day? Only Seven?! In Isaiah’s prayer for Jerusalem he says…

O Jerusalem, I have posted watchmen on your walls; they will pray day and night, continually. Take no rest, all you who pray to the LORD. Isaiah 62:6

Pray continually. Paul taught the same thing to the church at Thessalonica when he was giving them advice on Christian conduct.

See that no one pays back evil for evil, but always try to do good to each other and to all people. 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 5:15-18 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Ezra give us good advice here beyond praising and praying. Obeying. That is the ultimate key in living to please God. By obeying God’s commandments, laws, instruction…all of His words…we will live in such a way that will give us peace. Peace, joy, love…isn’t that what we are all ultimately seeking?

Prayer ~ I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13

Verse of Salvation ~ May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation—the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:11

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question: What was the attitude of Christ?

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. Though he was God, he did not think of equality with God as something to cling to. Instead, he gave up his divine privileges; he took the humble position of a slave and was born as a human being. When he appeared in human form, he humbled himself in obedience to God and died a criminal's death on a cross. Philippians 2:1-8 (Underlined for emphasis.)

We are not God, nor will we ever be a god...but we still need to have a humble attitude like Christ.

Bible Trivia Question for next week ~ What was “The Hand Writng On The Wall?” When did that happen? What was written? What did it mean?

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Friday, June 25, 2021

Protect My Life as You Promised

Meditate. What is love?

ר‎ [Resh] Look upon my suffering and rescue me, for I have not forgotten your instructions. Argue my case; take my side! Protect my life as you promised. The wicked are far from rescue, for they do not bother with your decrees. LORD, how great is your mercy; let me be revived by following your regulations. Many persecute and trouble me, yet I have not swerved from your laws. Seeing these traitors makes me sick at heart, because they care nothing for your word. See how I love your commandments, LORD. Give back my life because of your unfailing love. The very essence of your words is truth; all your just regulations will stand forever. Psalm 119:153-160

Protect my life as you promised. I cling to the promises that the Lord has made. Promises are important. As I’ve mentioned recently, my favorite promise is that the Lord will never leave me or forsake me. Somehow that is really significant to me—not that I’ve ever felt abandoned or rejected. My folks really wanted a son, and the doctor told them that I was going to be a boy…but I wasn’t, so I always thought I was a disappointment to them. They didn’t reject me, and they had two sons after I was born, but still I just felt not totally loved. I wasn’t their favorite. But I learned early in life by the song, Jesus love me. And I always felt that my Grandmothers loved me. I was named after one and the other one put up with me visiting after club meetings once a week for several years. I was a noisy kid—but I was always welcome. That is love.

Yesterday I was working in my yard for a couple of hours in the morning…before it got really hot. As I worked I contemplated what love really is. We know that God is love from 1 John 4:8. The classic description of love in the Bible tells us that love is…

Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable, and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never loses faith, is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstance. Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will become useless. But love will last forever! ... Three things will last forever—faith, hope, and love—and the greatest of these is love. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8, 13

But on my anniversary I was deep in thought about love…how it starts and continues…and sometimes stops. I think there is a romantic element—sometimes even lustful that sparks that love…or is sparked by love, yet I recall asking my sister just before she was getting married, “How do you know if you really love someone?” She said that it was when you knew you cared more about that other person than yourself. Hmmm. We are supposed to love our neighbor…those around us, not necessarily next door…as ourselves. Well—what about people who don’t love themselves, those with low self-esteem? What about people who have arranged marriages…or marry out of some way of escape. I was thinking of my paternal grandparents. My grandmother came over to the US alone on a boat from Odessa, Russia at the age of fourteen. Her money was stolen as she slept and she became an endured servant to the family who helped her when she arrived in New York and traveled across the country to Washington State where her sister already lived. As the story goes, a young man saw her working so hard for those people and he offered to marry her. Her knight in shining armor! Then she worked for him. My grandparents were married for over 50 years and had six children. Grandma was always busy…working…in her kitchen, house, garden…cleaning, cooking, baking, canning, sewing, crocheting, planting or weeding. It was Grandma who taught me what weeds are…the curse of the ground. So as I weeded my yard, I thought of her…and love. Her life was protected by God…mine is, too.

Prayer ~ LORD, don't hold back your tender mercies from me. Let your unfailing love and faithfulness always protect me. Psalm 40:11

Verse of Salvation ~ This is what the LORD says: "At just the right time, I will respond to you. On the day of salvation I will help you. I will protect you and give you to the people as my covenant with them. Through you I will reestablish the land of Israel and assign it to its own people again. Isaiah 49:8

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

Near the headwater of the Jordan River.
Israel

We must have water.

We can’t live on bread alone. We must have water. Be sure to drink enough water to stay hydrated during this HOT time of the summer. Keep your water pure and uncontaminated. We need to drink at least eight glasses of water…more when it is hot and we’ve been outdoors. Don’t get dehydrated. If you are outside and feel hot, drink more water, seek shade or go indoors. Place a cool washcloth on your forehead, or take a cool shower to cool your body down if you have gotten overheated. Take care of your body…it is the Temple of the Holy Spirit. Take care of your heart and your head…as well as your body.

Spiritually, seek the Living Water that Jesus offers. Anyone who believes in me may come and drink! For the Scriptures declare, 'Rivers of living water will flow from his heart.' John 7:38

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

Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188.

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Thursday, June 24, 2021

Do You Rise Early?

Meditate. Rise early and hear God's voice in His word.

ק‎ [Qoph] I pray with all my heart; answer me, LORD! I will obey your decrees. I cry out to you; rescue me, that I may obey your laws. I rise early, before the sun is up; I cry out for help and put my hope in your words. I stay awake through the night, thinking about your promise. In your faithful love, O LORD, hear my cry; let me be revived by following your regulations. Lawless people are coming to attack me; they live far from your instructions. Psalm 119:145-152

Jesus rose early to pray…to connect with His Father. He put His hope and trust in the guidance that God gave Him. Remember all the times He said that He didn’t speak for himself…but for His Father.

I don't speak on my own authority. The Father who sent me has commanded me what to say and how to say it. And I know his commands lead to eternal life; so I say whatever the Father tells me to say. John 12:49-50

Don't you believe that I am in the Father and the Father is in me? The words I speak are not my own, but my Father who lives in me does his work through me. John 14:10

What great examples Jesus and Ezra were for us. What time do you get up to spend with the Father before you start your day? I get up usually when I wake up—but rarely before the sun is up. Starting my day blogging gets me into God’s word…I live for His instruction, too, like Ezra. There is so much to study in God’s word. My husband and I follow a couple of Bible teachers on YouTube that talk about Bible prophesy and just the Bible in general. Our Small Group is doing a chronological study of Ezra and Nehemiah that just makes it come alive in our discussions. Why is it that some retired people are bored? I have so much to do that there just isn’t time to do everything I want to do! I’m also in the midst of writing and illustrating a children’s Bible storybook. Such fun. I guess I need to rise early and cry out for help from the Lord on that so I can get it finished this summer!

Ballon Rally at Prosser, Washington
Rise up early.

Do you rise early, before the sun is up, and spend time in prayer with the Lord? It would be great for your relationship with Him. I know I need to do more of that…get up early and pray. I do put my hope in His word.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus…I trust You and the Father God who sent You. For when I see You, I am seeing the one who sent You. You came as a light to shine in this dark world, so that all who put their trust in You will no longer remain in the dark. From John 12:44-46. Thank You for being a light in the darkness of this world—and for guiding us to the Father. I trust and love You with all of my heart, soul and mind. Please continue to guide and direct me with Your instructions…that came from the Father.

Verse of Salvation ~ LORD, give me your unfailing love, the salvation that you promised me. Psalm 119:41

Happy Anniversary to my Hunny! Forty-nine…and counting.

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

Is Your God Stone or a Risen Being?

Meditate. Think about the attributes of God.

Tsadhe - O LORD, you are righteous, and your regulations are fair. Your laws are perfect and completely trustworthy. I am overwhelmed with indignation, for my enemies have disregarded your words. Your promises have been thoroughly tested; that is why I love them so much. I am insignificant and despised, but I don't forget your commandments. Your justice is eternal, and your instructions are perfectly true. As pressure and stress bear down on me, I find joy in your commands. Your laws are always right; help me to understand them so I may live. Psalm 119:137-144

Do you worship a god with a golden dome?

Do you worship a God whose tomb is empty?

This Psalm expresses some great values of God and His word. He is righteous, fair, perfect, trustworthy, eternal, just, true, right and honest (keeping promises). Jesus has been called the Word of God…and thus all of these qualities also apply to Him. Our God…Father, Son and Holy Spirit…is an awesome God. People that worship other gods may think that their god is great…but only our God, Jesus, was actually raised from the dead and is still living. That sets our God apart from others. They are merely images now in stone or metal that are venerated by those who have been taught to believe in that tradition. Taught. That is the key. Everyone needs to be taught about their god…or God. We need to be discipled…or need to disciple others. I think that it is rare that anyone truly learns about God on their own. Sure, once we have been introduced to God, we read and study His word and develop our relationship with Him, but someone initiates that awareness of our Creator, our sustainer, our Savior…our God.

Remember that Jesus told His disciples…and us…to go and make disciples of all the nations (see Matthew 28:19). How do you introduce someone to God? Do you say…I’d like you to meet a friend of mine? Have you noticed the variety of flora (plants) and fauna (animals) in our world (neighborhood)—let me tell you about the Creator? Where will you be going when you die?

There are lots of options that you can use to “introduce” others to our God.

…you must worship Christ as Lord of your life. And if someone asks about your Christian hope, always be ready to explain it. But do this in a gentle and respectful way. Keep your conscience clear. Then if people speak against you, they will be ashamed when they see what a good life you live because you belong to Christ. 1 Peter 3:15-16 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help me to live a life worthy of You…that whether someone asks me or not they can see that my hope is in You. May my life be a reflection of You.

Verses of Salvation ~ All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is by his great mercy that we have been born again, because God raised Jesus Christ from the dead. Now we live with great expectation, and we have a priceless inheritance—an inheritance that is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay. And through your faith, God is protecting you by his power until you receive this salvation, which is ready to be revealed on the last day for all to see. 1 Peter 1:3-5

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

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

Parenting Day By Day - Daily Devotional for Building Character

Available as an e-book or paperback at Amazon.com

Tuesday, June 22, 2021

Do You Want to be Taugtht?

Meditate. Focus on God's word.

פ‎ [Pe] Your laws are wonderful. No wonder I obey them! The teaching of your word gives light, so even the simple can understand. I pant with expectation, longing for your commands. Come and show me your mercy, as you do for all who love your name. Guide my steps by your word, so I will not be overcome by evil. Ransom me from the oppression of evil people; then I can obey your commandments. Look upon me with love; teach me your decrees. Rivers of tears gush from my eyes because people disobey your instructions. Psalm 119:129-136

Ezra was so focused on God’s word as he wrote this Psalm. God’s word is precious to me…and I presume that it is important to you or you wouldn’t even be reading this. It is good to have some comradery around the world. Did you know that this blog is read daily by people in several different countries? Last month I noted that there were 459 page views from individuals in eighteen various countries. This month we are nearing those figures and we still have more than a week before the end of the month. It is so encouraging to know that people are searching for the Lord and hopefully finding Him in the scripture passages in this blog.

I agree with Ezra…God’s laws, commands, decrees and instructions are wonderful. As humans we need His guidance in our lives as we live to please Him. What child doesn’t need some direction from their parent? God is our parent…our Heavenly Father. He gives us as much instruction as we want…as we search for Him. Without training we flounder hopelessly—like the rebellious Hebrew children in the Exodus from Egypt…and at other times that drove them away from God and into exile. Consider the verse that encourages parents as they prepare their children for life. The right path…the right way to live.

Kim and Amelia...hiking Badger Mt.
Direct them..take them by the hand
on the right path.
Lead them in the paths...
of righteousness.

Direct your children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. Proverbs 22:6

Without that training or direction the child not only is disobedient their parents, but to God as well. Their life may seem wonderful at times, but is hopeless in the end. Think about children or teens that you’ve known whose babysitter was the TV; left to fend for themselves while their parent(s) worked or partied; not encouraged to choose good friends, have hobbies, play sports, or go to church. Disobedient parents generally have disobedient children. Do you want to be taught...and to teach others?

Like Ezra…ask God to look on you with love and instruct you mercifully in His ways.

Prayer ~ Lord God, train me as Your child and look on me with Your love that everything I think, say and do would be pleasing to You. Please pour out Your wisdom on me that I would not only understand Your guidance, but apply it to my life as I seek to serve others for You.

Lord, I continue to pray for a healing touch for those who are in our thoughts and concerns. May You in Your mercy answer our prayers—for we, like the centurion, have faith that You can and will provide restored health (Matthew 8:5-13).

Verses of Salvation ~ Show us your unfailing love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation. I listen carefully to what God the LORD is saying, for he speaks peace to his faithful people. But let them not return to their foolish ways. Surely his salvation is near to those who fear him, so our land will be filled with his glory. Psalm 85:7-9

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

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Monday, June 21, 2021

Are You Blessed with Discernment?

Meditate. Do you love God's word?

ע‎ [Ayin] Don't leave me to the mercy of my enemies, for I have done what is just and right. Please guarantee a blessing for me. Don't let the arrogant oppress me! My eyes strain to see your rescue, to see the truth of your promise fulfilled. I am your servant; deal with me in unfailing love, and teach me your decrees. Give discernment to me, your servant; then I will understand your laws. LORD, it is time for you to act, for these evil people have violated your instructions. Truly, I love your commands more than gold, even the finest gold. Each of your commandments is right. That is why I hate every false way. Psalm 119:121-128 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Are you blessed with discernment? Do you understand God’s laws, commands, and guidance in such a way that you can judge issues and apply God’s word? It is a discerning person who can wisely see God’s truth when others cannot. It is a true gift of the Spirit.

I do love God’s word…His commands more than gold, even the finest gold. I’m not much of a jewelry wearer…but I do have some favorite rings and earrings that I cherish. One ring that I got in Israel has scripture on it…a favorite one to which I often cling. “I will never leave you or forsake you.” It is found in several places in the Bible, including Deuteronomy 31:8 and Hebrews 13:5. The New Living Translation uses “abandon” instead of “forsake”…but it is still the same assurance. God won’t neglect us.

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

That gives me such a feeling of hope and encouragement. The Almighty One…our powerful God…the creator…the resurrected Savior…the ultimate Judge…cares about me!

I feel the same way about God…and my husband. After I got my scripture ring, I felt convicted that I needed to tell God that I would “never leave” Him or “forsake” Him…and then I felt the need to express the same thing to my husband. My pledge to him…“I will never leave you or forsake you.” We’ve spent nearly forty-nine years together—that is a great milestone! I’ve lots of friends who have had fifty years together…or soon will have that. Other friends and associates just didn't make it in their marriages. With the divorce rate statistics of 40% in 1972 and only 27% now (according to the CDC vital statistics of the Public Health Service), many of us have done well with our commitment to each other. In my family I feel blessed. It could have turned out very disappointing…but faithful, wise discernment on our parts has kept God in our marriage…and in our family. That is the key.

Prayer ~ Lord God, thank you for blessing us and for Your promise to never leave us or forsake us. You are an awesome God…always worthy of our praise and adoration. I confess to You that life hasn’t always been easy…and I’ve made some poor choices along the way…but You’ve blessed me anyway. As David wrote… “The LORD is my strength and shield. I trust him with all my heart. He helps me, and my heart is filled with joy. I burst out in songs of thanksgiving." Psalm 28:7

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD gives his people strength. He is a safe fortress for his anointed king. Save your people! Bless Israel, your special possession. Lead them like a shepherd, and carry them in your arms forever. Psalm 28:8-9

Save all your followers, Lord…and bless Israel in this time of distress…and always.

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

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Sunday, June 20, 2021

Honor Your Father

Meditate. How will you honor your father…or his memory?

[Samekh] I hate those with divided loyalties, but I love your instructions. You are my refuge and my shield; your word is my source of hope. Get out of my life, you evil-minded people, for I intend to obey the commands of my God. LORD, sustain me as you promised, that I may live! Do not let my hope be crushed. Sustain me, and I will be rescued; then I will meditate continually on your decrees. But you have rejected all who stray from your decrees. They are only fooling themselves. You skim off the wicked of the earth like scum; no wonder I love to obey your laws! I tremble in fear of you; I stand in awe of your regulations. Psalm 119:113-120

Divided loyalties is something that God truly does not like especially if it is associated with mixing idol and God worship.

Oregon Pacific Coast
Are you tossed about like these waves?

But when you ask him, be sure that your faith is in God alone. Do not waver, for a person with divided loyalty is as unsettled as a wave of the sea that is blown and tossed by the wind. James 1:6

You must never set up a wooden Asherah pole beside the altar you build for the LORD your God. And never set up sacred pillars for worship, for the LORD your God hates them. Deuteronomy 16:21-22

It’s easy to get caught up in a form of idol worship…like putting a TV program before “God” time. What matters most to you in life…food, sports, YouTube, Netflix, Prime or some other TV program, electronics, travel, your appearance, clothes, shoes, cars, motorcycles, toys, books, comics, or God? How we spend our time generally shows our devotion and what is really important to us. Today, Father’s Day, the important thing should be to honor our fathers. That can begin with honoring our Heavenly Father, too. Solomon reminds us of what is import to God and family in these passages in Proverbs.

There are six things the LORD hates—no, seven things he detests: haughty eyes, a lying tongue, hands that kill the innocent, a heart that plots evil, feet that race to do wrong, a false witness who pours out lies, a person who sows discord in a family. Proverbs 6:16-19

My son, obey your father’s commands, and don’t neglect your mother’s instruction. Keep their words always in your heart. Tie them around your neck. When you walk, their counsel will lead you. When you sleep, they will protect you. When you wake up, they will advise you. For their command is a lamp and their instruction a light; their corrective discipline is the way to life. Proverbs 6:20-23

God instructed Moses to have the Israelites honor their parents. It is the first commandment after how we are to honor God first in our lives…and it is the only commandment with a promise. Additionally, there were strict…death…results if a person didn’t honor their parents.

Honor your father and mother. Then you will live a long, full life in the land the LORD your God is giving you. Exodus 20:12

For instance, God says, 'Honor your father and mother,' and 'Anyone who speaks disrespectfully of father or mother must be put to death.' Matthew 15:4

How are you showing respect and honor to your father today?

Prayer ~ Lord, help me to honor my father…and my mother…today.

Verse of Salvation ~ Help us, O God of our salvation! Help us for the glory of your name. Save us and forgive our sins for the honor of your name. Psalm 79:9

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

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Saturday, June 19, 2021

Is Your Path Well Lighted?

Meditate. ‎Are you trying to walk in the dark...or searching for the light?

נ [Nun] Your word is a lamp to guide my feet and a light for my path. I've promised it once, and I'll promise it again: I will obey your righteous regulations. I have suffered much, O LORD; restore my life again as you promised. LORD, accept my offering of praise, and teach me your regulations. My life constantly hangs in the balance, but I will not stop obeying your instructions. The wicked have set their traps for me, but I will not turn from your commandments. Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart's delight. I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. Psalm 119:105-112

Clay lamp like those used in Biblical times.
Light my way, Lord!

God’s word instructs us in the path to go…illuminated by Him. Jesus is called The Word in John 1:1. Additionally, Jesus said He was the Light of the World. He is that lamp to guide my feet…as well as my heart, soul and mind, giving me strength to press on. Giving me strength to obey.

Prayer ~ LORD, accept my offering of praise. You are an awesome God—knowing everything. I praise You for Your wisdom and gracious sharing of even just a little glimmer of that wisdom, giving me understanding of Your word…and of You. I treasure You…as well as Your laws. I want to continually and intentionally obey what You have taught me based on Your Commandments and application of Your laws through Your teachings in the New Testament. Your grace is sufficient for me.

Verses of Salvation ~ I praise God for what he has promised; yes, I praise the LORD for what he has promised. I trust in God, so why should I be afraid? What can mere mortals do to me? I will fulfill my vows to you, O God, and will offer a sacrifice of thanks for your help. For you have rescued me from death; you have kept my feet from slipping. So now I can walk in your presence, O God, in your life-giving light. Psalm 56:10-13

Rescued from death…into eternal life.

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question ~ Who will see Jesus when He comes again? Who will bow down to Him?

Look! He (Jesus) comes with the clouds of heaven. And everyone will see him--even those who pierced him. And all the nations of the world will mourn for him. Yes! Amen! Revelation 1:7

Let all the world look to me for salvation! For I am God; there is no other. I have sworn by my own name; I have spoken the truth, and I will never go back on my word: Every knee will bend to me, and every tongue will confess allegiance to me." The people will declare, "The LORD is the source of all my righteousness and strength." And all who were angry with him will come to him and be ashamed. Isaiah 45:22-24

Bible Trivia Question for next week ~ What was the attitude of Christ?

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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Friday, June 18, 2021

Sweet Words – Sweet Fragrance

Meditate. Are you sweet smelling to those around you?

מ‎ [Mem] Oh, how I love your instructions! I think about them all day long. Your commands make me wiser than my enemies, for they are my constant guide. Yes, I have more insight than my teachers, for I am always thinking of your laws. I am even wiser than my elders, for I have kept your commandments. I have refused to walk on any evil path, so that I may remain obedient to your word. I haven't turned away from your regulations, for you have taught me well. How sweet your words taste to me; they are sweeter than honey. Your commandments give me understanding; no wonder I hate every false way of life. Psalm 119:97-104

Sweet words. Have you ever tasted sweet words…or bitter words? Compare and contrast these scriptures about sweet and bitter words. Have either of those ever come from your mouth?

Kind words are like honey--sweet to the soul and healthy for the body. Proverbs 16:24

O God, listen to my complaint. Protect my life from my enemies' threats. Hide me from the plots of this evil mob, from this gang of wrongdoers. They sharpen their tongues like swords and aim their bitter words like arrows. They shoot from ambush at the innocent, attacking suddenly and fearlessly. They encourage each other to do evil and plan how to set their traps in secret. "Who will ever notice?" they ask. Psalm 64:1-5

What can you do to make sure that your words are the kind, sweet words that honor God and yourself?

Pray? Think before you speak? Look at some scripture about controling your mouth (example James 1:26). Bridle your tongue.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help me to think before I speak…and to honor You in all that I think, say and do. As Paul prayed for the Colossians, I pray for my family, friends and those reading this blog…

So we have not stopped praying for you since we first heard about you. We ask God to give you complete knowledge of his will and to give you spiritual wisdom and understanding. Then the way you live will always honor and please the Lord, and your lives will produce every kind of good fruit. All the while, you will grow as you learn to know God better and better. We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy, always thanking the Father. He has enabled you to share in the inheritance that belongs to his people, who live in the light. Colossians 1:9-12

Verse of Salvation ~ But thank God! He has made us his captives and continues to lead us along in Christ's triumphal procession. Now he uses us to spread the knowledge of Christ everywhere, like a sweet perfume. Our lives are a Christ-like fragrance rising up to God. But this fragrance is perceived differently by those who are being saved and by those who are perishing. To those who are perishing, we are a dreadful smell of death and doom. But to those who are being saved, we are a life-giving perfume. And who is adequate for such a task as this? 2 Corinthians 2:14-16

Are you a sweet-smelling fragrance to those around you?

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone.

What is your favorite meal of the day…and what do you like to eat? I’ve been trying to do the 16/8 Food Limiting Times (FTL) to restrict my food intake and thus loose weight. One of my brothers has been very successful with this fasting food routine and has lost 70—that’s right seventy—pounds. He looks and feels great. For both of us breakfast is an important meal of the day and we’ve found that just eating it four to ten hours later than usual is still good. Now mind you, I am NOT eating my favorite blueberry pancakes with peanut butter! Eggs are healthy and one of those when I am breaking my fast time is tasty whether it is fried, scrambled or in an omelet. Omelets are great when they include bacon, asparagus, spinach, mushrooms and cheese, even goat cheese. Add a little pesto on top and I’ve got such a wonderful meal that just thinking about it makes my mouth water. So what is on your plate as you begin breaking your fast—whether 8 or 18 hours? What do your scales tell you that you need to do today? Eat hearty or push yourself away from the table? Maybe my arms will get stronger as I push myself away from the table more often!?

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

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