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.

Saturday, July 31, 2021

As Sweet as Honey

Meditate on kind words.

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

I grew up with honey bee hives…several supers…on our farm, so we always had lots of honey. The bees were a necessary pollinator for our alfalfa crop and fruit trees. My Dad had the bee keeper’s outfit with a netted wide brimmed helmet type hat and thick leather gloves that he wore with long pants and long-sleeved shirt or coveralls. He had a smoker that he used to pump smoke into the hives to stun the bees before he opened the hives up to check on them…or to collect the honey. Yum! Nothing better than chewing a chunk of fresh honey comb filled with sweet honey. Dad would cut the comb off the racks and put in new combs for the bees to fill up. It was much neater than the bees making their own comb. You’d think that they would be organized about that, but in reality, they were messy builders. We slowly heated the honey comb in a big canning pot to melt the honey out of the comb and poured into large glass jars to store all year long. It keeps forever. Later in life I had friends who spun their honey out of the comb. Things change. Farmers now use leaf cutter bees which are even better pollinators for alfalfa, but there is no bonus of the sweet honey.

God’s words are as sweet as honey to me. They last all year—actually like the honey, forever. I savior their flavor…and love to share them with my family and friends…and readers of this blog.

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

Kind words…the kind that you want to hear and speak to others. If we apply God’s word to guide our lives in obedience to Him then we will be blessed with wisdom and understanding. Are you seeking and using God’s words to influence your choices in life? Choose His sweet words—they are even sweeter than honey.

Prayer ~ 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. ... Your laws are my treasure; they are my heart's delight. I am determined to keep your decrees to the very end. Psalm 119:108-109, 111-112 Thank You, Lord. I rejoice in discovering new truths about You.

Verse of Salvation ~ We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love. Romans 5:3-5

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question: Name seven things we’ll see…or won’t see…in Heaven.

. God.

I heard a loud shout from the throne, saying, “Look, God's home is now among his people! He will live with them, and they will be his people. God himself will be with them.” Revelation 21:3

2 2. We won’t see anything evil or those who don’t believe in Jesus as their Savior.

Nothing evil will be allowed to enter, nor anyone who practices shameful idolatry and dishonesty—but only those whose names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life. Revelation 21:27

   3.  We won’t see any oceans.
           Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth, for the old heaven and the old earth had disappeared. And the sea was also gone. Revelation 21:1
   4.      No tears, death or sorrow.

He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there will be no more death or sorrow or crying or pain. All these things are gone forever. Revelation 21:4

5. 5. No Temple.

I saw no temple in the city, for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are its temple. Revelation 21:22

6. 6. Walls around Jerusalem are made of precious stones and the streets are made of gold.

The wall was made of jasper, and the city was pure gold, as clear as glass. The wall of the city was built on foundation stones inlaid with twelve precious stones: the first was jasper, the second sapphire, the third agate, the fourth emerald, the fifth onyx, the sixth carnelian, the seventh chrysolite, the eighth beryl, the ninth topaz, the tenth chrysoprase, the eleventh jacinth, the twelfth amethyst. The twelve gates were made of pearls—each gate from a single pearl! And the main street was pure gold, as clear as glass. Revelation 21:18-21

7. 7. No sun or moon.

And the city has no need of sun or moon, for the glory of God illuminates the city, and the Lamb is its light. Revelation 21:23

Bible Trivia Question for next week ~ What gave Samson his strength? How did he lose it?

Shirley & Bob
Anne & Vicki

Happy Heavenly Birthday to my sister, Shirley.
Rest in Peace…hopefully we’ll see you soon - as Jesus returns for us!

Think sweet, not sour

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, July 30, 2021

Are Your Words Pleasant?

Meditate.

Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the LORD will be joyful. The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive. Proverbs 16:20-21

Are your words to others pleasant? If so, you are a good witness for the Lord. Pleasant words are persuasive. That is a good thing. Mean words drive others away. How can you tell others about the Lord if you offend them with your words or actions?

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

When I dig into God’s word, I find such wonderful truths and secrets that God has for us. Kind words just open the doors to more understanding.

Yet when I am among mature believers, I do speak with words of wisdom, but not the kind of wisdom that belongs to this world or to the rulers of this world, who are soon forgotten. No, the wisdom we speak of is the mystery of God—his plan that was previously hidden, even though he made it for our ultimate glory before the world began. But the rulers of this world have not understood it; if they had, they would not have crucified our glorious Lord. That is what the Scriptures mean when they say, "No eye has seen, no ear has heard, and no mind has imagined what God has prepared for those who love him." But it was to us that God revealed these things by his Spirit. For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God's deep secrets. No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. 1 Corinthians 2:6-12

God shows us such amazing things. Search His word today for yourself and draw closer to Him as you bask in His glory and love. It is there…hiding in your Bible…just waiting for you to discover all that He has for you.

Swan at Swan Lake, Sumter, SC
Hide me in the shadow of your wings.

Show me the mysteries of Your Word, Lord.

Prayer ~ Lord God… 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. Guard me as you would guard your own eyes. Hide me in the shadow of your wings. Psalm 17:5-8

Verses of Salvation ~ So get rid of all evil behavior. Be done with all deceit, hypocrisy, jealousy, and all unkind speech. Like newborn babies, you must crave pure spiritual milk so that you will grow into a full experience of salvation. Cry out for this nourishment, now that you have had a taste of the Lord's kindness. 1 Peter 2:1-3

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone. Have some fish stew with that bread…but don’t stew about your relationship with God or with others. In doing a little research on fish stew on the internet I found that there are Fish Stew recipes from countries all around the world…Greece, Brazil, Italy, Moroccan, Basque, Mediterranean, Normandy, Portuguese, Spanish, Jamaican, simple and quick fish stews including at least one from North Carolina. You can Google and pick a country to try one that appeals to your taste and smell (assuming you don’t have COVID and can smell and taste!) in flavors that you love.

Here’s a quick and easy one with which to start. Add the flavors like fennel, cumin, cayenne pepper, rosemary, or even dill to suit your taste.

Quick and Easy Fish Stew – adapted from Pinterest, Food Network and my own cooking attempts

Serves four.
1½ pounds filet fish – use what is available to you…rockfish, cod, mahi mahi, salmon, red snapper
Olive Oil – 6 tablespoons
Garlic 1-3 cloves grated
Onion – 1 white, yellow or sweet, finely chopped
Celery – 3 ribs, chopped
Oregano – pinch or 1 twig fresh, minced
Thyme – pinch or 1 twig fresh, minced
Bay leaves – 3 whole
Tomatoes – fresh or canned - 2 cups peeled and chopped
Green pepper – optional – 1 – chopped
Mild chili peppers – optional – seeded and chopped
Tomato paste – 2 teaspoons
Tabasco sauce – 1 shake or 1/8 teaspoon
½ cup dry white wine
1 cup water
1 cup chicken broth or fish stock
Parsley – ½ cup, chopped or snipped – last minute garnish
Green onions – 2 chopped – last minute garnish
Optional additions to suit your tastes:
1 cup chopped clams
Mussels or butter clams -1 pound in the shell, well washed
Shrimp – 1 pound thawed, if frozen

Crab - for a special occasion

Sauté the garlic, onion, celery and peppers in the olive oil until tender. Add the desired herbs (except the parsley and green onion), tomatoes, wine, water and broth. Simmer for about one hour. Add the fish and any other optional meats. Add the parsley and chopped green onions. Cook about 5 minutes, until the fish flakes easily. Remove the bay leaves. Serve with a nice grainy roll, cornbread, rice and/or tossed salad.

Think pleasant, not 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

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Thursday, July 29, 2021

Are You Ready?

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Meditate.

A servant of the Lord must not quarrel but must be kind to everyone, be able to teach, and be patient with difficult people. 2 Timothy 2:24

Jesus was the ultimate servant. Remember how He washed the disciples’ feet during their last Passover meal together (read John 13:1-20) and told them that He gave them an example as He washed their feet and they should do the same. He was kind and patient with His disciples as He taught them one last time.

I have given you an example to follow. Do as I have done to you. I tell you the truth, slaves (servants) are not greater than their master. Nor is the messenger more important than the one who sends the message. John 13:15-16

Being a servant of the Lord is actually an honor—who else would be better to serve? Selfishly, not ourselves. Rather, we can serve the Lord by serving others. Do you know what the Lord expects of you? It is time to dig into His word and get prepared. Jesus said several times to be ready.

You also must be ready all the time, for the Son of Man will come when least expected. Matthew 24:44

The servants who are ready and waiting for his return will be rewarded. I tell you the truth, he himself will seat them, put on an apron, and serve them as they sit and eat! He may come in the middle of the night or just before dawn. But whenever he comes, he will reward the servants who are ready. Luke 12:37-38

And a servant who knows what the master wants, but isn't prepared and doesn't carry out those instructions, will be severely punished. Luke 12:47

Are you ready? Do you know what God expects of you? Are you doing that…and growing closer in your relationship with the Lord?

Hiking on Candy Mt.
Be prepared.

Prayer ~ Lord, this is such an immense responsibility—to know what You want…and to do it! Help me to not only see specifically the path that You have set before me, but just as You have promised Israel that You will brighten the darkness and smooth out the path ahead of them (Isahiah 42:16)…please do this for me, and for my family, friends and neighbors. I want to see You more clearly and be ready for Your return, Jesus. I trust Your promises and know that you will return. Let it be.

Verses of Salvation ~ Hear me as I pray, O LORD. Be merciful and answer me! My heart has heard you say, "Come and talk with me." And my heart responds, "LORD, I am coming." Do not turn your back on me. Do not reject your servant in anger. You have always been my helper. Don't leave me now; don't abandon me, O God of my salvation! Psalm 27:7-9

Think servant, not self-centered

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, July 28, 2021

Think Compassion, Not Indifference

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Meditate. Compassion and tenderhearted.

Get rid of all bitterness, rage, anger, harsh words, and slander, as well as all types of evil behavior. Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. Ephesians 4:31-32

…be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you. This reminds me of the Golden Rule…Treat others the way you want to be treated. Jesus shared this with His followers during the Sermon on the Mount. Read it in different translations of the Bible for more insight and conviction.

For you will be treated as you treat others. The standard you use in judging is the standard by which you will be judged. Matthew 7:2

Fish and Loaves mosiac in Israel
Near the Sea of Galilee and the Mt. of Beatitudes
Jesus fed 5,000 and then 4,000 men and
their family...bread and fish.

Consider how compassionate Jesus was as He healed, taught and lived among His disciples and other supporters. He was obedient to His Father and treated others the way He Himself would have wanted to be treated. He fed over 9,000 men and their families, healed the blind, lame and those possessed with demons. He even raised people from the dead. That was what His Father wanted Him to do. We may not have those same gifts of the Spirit that Jesus had, like raising people from the dead and healing them, but we can obediently be compassionate to others—especially other Christians. Paul wrote this letter to the church at Ephesus—to the Christians—the believers. So his admonishment to get rid of bitterness and those other evil feelings and to…Instead, be kind to each other, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you…applies to Christians today, too. Do you feel that you are tenderhearted and compassionate to other Christians…forgiving them if they have wronged you? Or are you just indifferent to others? Think about that…and how your relationship with other Christians impacts your relationship with the Lord. We must forgive others if we want God to forgive us.

Prayer ~ Lord God, open the eyes of my heart to see others around me, especially Christian brothers and sisters, as You see them. Help me to be tenderhearted and compassionate towards them—obediently loving them as You would.

Verse of Salvation ~ Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God's right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory. Colossians 3:1-4

New life in Christ is salvation. It is a gift from God, not something that anyone can earn.

Think compassion, not indifference

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, July 27, 2021

Give Generously

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Meditate. What and how do you give?

As the Light of the World shines into your heart...
may you generously give of your
time
talents
money
and...love.

Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. Good comes to those who lend money generously and conduct their business fairly. Such people will not be overcome by evil. Those who are righteous will be long remembered. They do not fear bad news; they confidently trust the LORD to care for them. Psalm 112:4-7

When was the last time you loaned money or anything to someone? Did you do it willingly or grudgingly? Consider that everything really belongs to the Lord.

Remember this—a farmer who plants only a few seeds will get a small crop. But the one who plants generously will get a generous crop. You must each decide in your heart how much to give. And don't give reluctantly or in response to pressure. "For God loves a person who gives cheerfully." And God will generously provide all you need. Then you will always have everything you need and plenty left over to share with others. As the Scriptures say, "They share freely and give generously to the poor. Their good deeds will be remembered forever." 2 Corinthians 9:6-9

Give generously—whether it is a gift or a loan. It belongs to God anyway…so just let go…and let God bless others. Build your relationship with God as you obediently serve Him.

Prayer ~ Lord, thank you for this reminder that everything is Yours. Let me share generously with others. Most importantly, give me boldness to share You, the Gospel of Good News, with others that they will have eternal life and live in obedience to You.

Verses of Salvation ~ So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don't be ashamed of me, either, even though I'm in prison for him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News. For God saved us and called us to live a holy life. He did this, not because we deserved it, but because that was his plan from before the beginning of time--to show us his grace through Christ Jesus. And now he has made all of this plain to us by the appearing of Christ Jesus, our Savior. He broke the power of death and illuminated the way to life and immortality through the Good News. 2 Timothy 1:8-10 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Think generous, not stingy

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

Monday, July 26, 2021

Are You Taking Advantage of Yourself With Interest Payments?

Meditate.

Show your fear of God by not taking advantage of each other. I am the LORD your God. If you want to live securely in the land, follow my decrees and obey my regulations. Then the land will yield large crops, and you will eat your fill and live securely in it. Leviticus 25:17-19

Love your neighbor as yourself. That pretty much sums up not taking advantage of each other. If you respect God, then you’ll respect others…and yourself. I know that is pretty trite, but ideally that is how life should work. It just isn’t that way. Everyone is out for a buck…for the almighty dollar. Workers work…and get paid…and then spend their money. Problem is a lot of people overspend their money. They’ve taken advantage of themselves and in the process allowed others to take advantage of them, too. Interest rates on credit cards are enormously outrageous. By getting so hung out to dry…and overwhelmed by debt…are people getting their eyes off God and focusing on money as their idol? Did they ever have their eyes on God to begin with?

Obey the sign.
Don't cross the fence into danger.
Obey God.

Sign posted in Israel near Mt. Hermon.

It is time…while there is still time…for us to seek God, with all of our heart, soul, mind and strength. In doing so may our relationship with God grow and mature. Jesus admonished His followers to be ready for His return. That hasn’t happened in the last two thousand years…but it could happen in our lifetime—and we’ve been forewarned. Be ready. Are you spiritually prepared? Not just by believing…but by being obedient to God’s word…to how He expects you to submit to His ways. Obedience is the key.

Prayer ~ Lord, my desire for my dear brothers and sisters in Christ—as well as for myself: May we be joyful. Grow to maturity. Encourage each other. Live in harmony and peace. Then You, my dear God of love and peace, will be with us all. From 2 Corinthians 13:11. Help us to be obedient…to make wise choices with Your standards in mind. Personally, I want to live to please You…eternally.

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

Think giving, not taking

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

Sunday, July 25, 2021

Find Peace by Finding God

Meditate. Do you have peace in your life?

Peace be with you. Your friends here send you their greetings. Please give my personal greetings to each of our friends there. 3 John 1:15

John was writing to the Christians throughout Asia Minor from Ephesus where he was living. This could have been after the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 AD when all the Christians, as well as the Jews, would have been dispersed. This same message written in John’s letters would be applicable to Christians today.

Be peaceful...not prickly.
Prickly Pear Cactus
Utah desert

Peace be with you…. Please give my personal greetings to each of our friends there. It’s so like Christians to send greetings to each other—much like prayers across the miles to Christian friends around the world. Peace. That feeling of harmony, tranquility and calmness that only God can provide. No war—that is peace, too, whether it is with individuals or nations. Yes…my desire for everyone is for peace. Peace in their heart and soul. Many churches allow people to greet each other during the service with a greeting of peace. During this stressful time…add greatings of joy and love. Love one another. There is only one commandment greater than that…Love God.

Love God—and show it by spending time with Him. Read His word today…not just because it is Sunday…but because you want to know Him better. Find peace by finding God.

Prayer ~ Lord, let the peace that comes from You, Christ, rule in our hearts. For as members of one body we are called to live in peace. And always be thankful. From Colossians 3:15

Verse of Salvation ~ How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of the messenger who brings good news, the good news of peace and salvation, the news that the God of Israel reigns! Isaiah 52:7

Think peace, not war

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, July 24, 2021

Choose Wisely

Meditate. Think wise not foolish thoughts.

I thought, "Wisdom is better than foolishness, just as light is better than darkness. For the wise can see where they are going, but fools walk in the dark." Yet I saw that the wise and the foolish share the same fate. Both will die. So I said to myself, "Since I will end up the same as the fool, what's the value of all my wisdom? This is all so meaningless!" For the wise and the foolish both die. The wise will not be remembered any longer than the fool. In the days to come, both will be forgotten. So I came to hate life because everything done here under the sun is so troubling. Everything is meaningless--like chasing the wind. Ecclesiastes 2:13-17

Wise and foolish people share the same fate. Both will die. It is meaningless like chasing after the wind. When I was a kid…about six or seven years old...we would chase dust devils—whirlwinds that would come across the fields and into our yard. We’d run inside to see if it was really calm inside. Stupid. We’d be covered with dust and sometimes weed seeds. Dirt in our eyes and mouth. Ugh! Chasing after the wind is not a very smart activity.

Consider the quality of life before death for the wise and the foolish. Those who are wise may chose to have wholesome foods and activities—whereas the foolish may chose to have foods and habits, like smoking, that cause their bodies to become diseased and deteriorate. The foolish are often reckless, lack common sense and reject God and His ways. Here are some scriptures that may help us focus on the contrast between wisdom and foolishness.

- And this is what he (God) says to all humanity: 'The fear of the Lord is true wisdom; to forsake evil is real understanding.'" Job 28:28

- Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom. Praise him forever! Psalm 111:10

- Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline. Proverbs 1:7

Choose for yourself. Be wise or be foolish.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Help me to always wisely choose to think, do and say that which is… true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. To think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. From Philippians 4:8.

Verses of Salvation ~ But you must remain faithful to the things you have been taught. You know they are true, for you know you can trust those who taught you. You have been taught the holy Scriptures from childhood, and they have given you the wisdom to receive the salvation that comes by trusting in Christ Jesus. 2 Timothy 3:14-15

Bible Trivia Answer to the Question: Where do we first see the Trinity together?

In Genesis 1:2 The Spirit was with God, hovering over the waters, but we don’t specifically see the Father and the Son. In Genesis 1:26 it says…"Let Us make mankind in Our image…." In John 1:1 it reads, “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things came into being through Him….” So Jesus was in the beginning with God…and the Spirit…when everything was created. So we can see the Trinity together in the beginning.

Bible Trivia Question for next week ~ Name seven things we’ll see…or won’t see…in Heaven.

Think wise, not foolish

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, July 23, 2021

God Blesses Those Who Are Hungry Now

Meditate. How are you “hungry”…physically or spiritually?

Then Jesus turned to his disciples and said, "God blesses you who are poor, for the Kingdom of God is yours. God blesses you who are hungry now, for you will be satisfied. God blesses you who weep now, for in due time you will laugh. What blessings await you when people hate you and exclude you and mock you and curse you as evil because you follow the Son of Man. When that happens, be happy! Yes, leap for joy! For a great reward awaits you in heaven. And remember, their ancestors treated the ancient prophets that same way. What sorrow awaits you who are rich, for you have your only happiness now. What sorrow awaits you who are fat and prosperous now, for a time of awful hunger awaits you. What sorrow awaits you who laugh now, for your laughing will turn to mourning and sorrow. What sorrow awaits you who are praised by the crowds, for their ancestors also praised false prophets. Luke 6:20-26 (Underlined for emphasis.)

This may have been Luke’s version of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount that as recorded in chapters five through seven of the book of Matthew. Jesus words recorded on hunger there are…

God blesses those who hunger and thirst for justice (or righteousness), for they will be satisfied. Matthew 5:6

Hunger is such a driving force. When you are hungry…whether for food, for fellowship with family or friends, for a reading a good book, for time with God, or for joy in your life…you are focused on that one thing that will satisfy your desire. In Jesus words we are promised when we hunger for righteousness—that right living, whatever is right or just and conforms to the will of God—we will be satisfied. We won’t have to search any longer. That is good. Ask and you will receive. In this passage there are “promises” that are not very encouraging:

Sorrow awaits…the rich…the fat and prosperous…those who laugh…those who are popular and those who praised false prophets.

Sorrow. Don’t we have enough of it without being promised more? Joy and sorrow. Those contrasts are repeated in the Old and New Testaments. Below are three examples. First is from the book of Esther when the days of Purium were established for the Jews when they celebrated a wicked scheme turned into good. In the book of Isaiah the millennial kingdom is prophesied with the joy and prosperity that will occur in the land of Israel at that time. Lastly, below, are the words of Jesus to His disciples when they asked about His return. Read all of these scriptures in context to fully grasp their meaning and significance.

- He told them to celebrate these days with feasting and gladness and by giving gifts of food to each other and presents to the poor. This would commemorate a time when the Jews gained relief from their enemies, when their sorrow was turned into gladness and their mourning into joy. Esther 9:22

- Those who have been ransomed by the LORD will return. They will enter Jerusalem singing, crowned with everlasting joy. Sorrow and mourning will disappear, and they will be filled with joy and gladness. Isaiah 35:10

- So you have sorrow now, but I will see you again; then you will rejoice, and no one can rob you of that joy. John 16:22

No one can rob you of that joy. What a great promise. It is good to remember that joy can be experienced even in times of mourning as in the Isaiah 35:10 scripture. Consider when you’ve experienced joy in your life. Would it have meant as much if not contrasted with a hardship or sadness?

Is your relationship with the Lord characterized by joy? Does time spent with Him make your day a better one? For me, my attitude is always better when I’ve spent time with Jesus. I think I need more of Him…even now.

Pray for Peace for Jerusalem.
...as seen in Israel.

Prayer ~ Jesus, fill my heart and life with Your joy—that it may overflow. As You told Your disciples…I have loved you even as the Father has loved me. Remain in my love. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in his love. I have told you these things so that you will be filled with my joy. Yes, your joy will overflow! This is my commandment: Love each other in the same way I have loved you. There is no greater love than to lay down one's life for one's friends. John 15:9-13

Verses of Salvation ~ The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is upon me, for the LORD has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to comfort the brokenhearted and to proclaim that captives will be released and prisoners will be freed. He has sent me to tell those who mourn that the time of the LORD's favor has come, and with it, the day of God's anger against their enemies. To all who mourn in Israel, he will give a crown of beauty for ashes, a joyous blessing instead of mourning, festive praise instead of despair. In their righteousness, they will be like great oaks that the LORD has planted for his own glory. They will rebuild the ancient ruins, repairing cities destroyed long ago. They will revive them, though they have been deserted for many generations. Foreigners will be your servants. They will feed your flocks and plow your fields and tend your vineyards. You will be called priests of the LORD, ministers of our God. You will feed on the treasures of the nations and boast in their riches. Instead of shame and dishonor, you will enjoy a double share of honor. You will possess a double portion of prosperity in your land, and everlasting joy will be yours. Isaiah 61:1-7 (Underlined for emphasis.)

Friday’s Feasting at the King’s Table

We can’t live on bread alone. Have a couple of scrambled egg and bacon with that bread. Scrambled eggs are like a comfort food…good anytime of the day.

Think laughing, not mocking

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

Thursday, July 22, 2021

Life is Short

Meditate. Consider the life God has given you.

Hear my prayer, O LORD! Listen to my cries for help! Don't ignore my tears. For I am your guest—a traveler passing through, as my ancestors were before me. Leave me alone so I can smile again before I am gone and exist no more. Psalm 39:12-13

Life is short. There is no doubt about that. Oh, some people may live to be over one hundred years old—one of my Dad’s cousins is 101, but most of people’s life span in the US is 76 years for men and 81 years for women. For other countries, it is similar…Germany 80 years, Portugal 79 years, Canada 81 years, Russia 70 years. We are but travelers passing through this land as a guest of God. Everything we have is from Him.

…. What do you have that God hasn't given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it were not a gift? 1 Corinthians 4:7

Blueberries in my backyard.
Perfectly sweet.

Enjoy God’s gifts here on earth. I am continually reminded…and thankful…for the bountiful variety of foods He so creatively has provided for us, especially at this time of the year with the marvelous fruits and vegetables. Ahhh. Pass that bowl of blueberries, plums and cherries.

Are you grateful for your existence here? How is your relationship today with God?

Prayer ~ Thank You Jesus for my very existence…and for amazing variety of plants and animals that You created. I am grateful for being alive here on earth as I pass through this lifetime…and for all that You have provided…food, water, shelter, family, friends…and all that we require just to exist. When I exist no more here…then I will be with You, forever in eternity.

Verse of Salvation ~ God, for whom and through whom everything was made, chose to bring many children into glory. And it was only right that he should make Jesus, through his suffering, a perfect leader, fit to bring them into their salvation. Hebrews 2:10

Think smiling, not sad

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, July 21, 2021

Can You Laugh at Famine or Destruction?

Meditate. Consider how you trust the Lord…day by day.

But consider the joy of those corrected by God! Do not despise the discipline of the Almighty when you sin. For though he wounds, he also bandages. He strikes, but his hands also heal. From six disasters he will rescue you; even in the seventh, he will keep you from evil. He will save you from death in time of famine, from the power of the sword in time of war. You will be safe from slander and have no fear when destruction comes. You will laugh at destruction and famine; wild animals will not terrify you. Job 5:17-22

Hide me under your wing.
Safe and Secure

Eliphaz, a sympathetic older friend of Job’s, gave him some advice. He recognized the goodness of God…and how God wants the best for us. God disciplines those He loves—but in His correction He also compassionately cares…by bandaging, healing, helping and protecting us. Can you imagine laughing at destruction, famine or wild animals? Times ahead may involve all of those. Yet remember in Psalm 91 how God is depicted as a bird hiding its young under its wings, protecting them. That is just how God will treat us…rescuing us from seven disasters. We will have no fear when destruction comes. What a great promise. Hang onto to that one…and encourage others as you see the day approaching…the day of destruction…the day of Christ’s return.

- Seek the LORD, all who are humble, and follow his commands. Seek to do what is right and to live humbly. Perhaps even yet the LORD will protect you—protect you from his anger on that day of destruction. Zephaniah 2:3

- The day of the LORD is near, the day when destruction comes from the Almighty. How terrible that day will be! Joel 1:15

It would be hard to laugh at famine or destruction…it might even be traumatic or distressful to laugh at famine or destruction, but the Lord God Almighty has promised to protect us and provide for us. You can trust Him. Live humbly. That is just how God wants us to live…humbly before Him. Can you do that?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, You lived a humble life—always seeking to do the Father’s will. Help me to live in the same way that brings You joy and we can happily laugh together. Where is there joy in life when there is destruction or famine?

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "God is great!" Psalm 70:4

Think happy, not unhappy

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, July 20, 2021

The Lord is Great!

Meditate. Consider your relationship with the great and mighty Lord. He loves you—you are worthy to admire and exalt Him.

But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "The LORD is great!" Psalm 40:16

The Lord is great! There is no doubt about that…in my heart, soul, and mind. Those who love the Lord—and experience salvation will not only praise the Lord…today…but will continually praise the Lord in eternity. May He be exalted, magnified, praised and worshipped. Actually, it tells us in Revelation that every living creature will praise the Lord in eternity.

And then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and in the sea. They sang: "Blessing and honor and glory and power belong to the one sitting on the throne and to the Lamb forever and ever." Revelation 5:13

LEGO creation by grandson, Isaac
Pharoh's army trying to cross the Red Sea.

The Lord is great! Miriam, the sister of Moses, sang about exalting the Lord after the Hebrew people had passed safely through the Red Sea on dry ground and then the Lord allowed Pharoh’s army to be drowned by that same sea (Exodus 15:21). The Lord protected His chosen people. Throughout the Old Testament, God protects His people and they praise Him. Consider Joshua, Samuel, David, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah and other prophets.

The Lord is great…and greatly to be praised! When David brought the Ark of the Covenant to the Tent at Jerusalem, he praised the Lord. Read about this in 1 Chronicles chapters 15 and 16. It was a time of celebration.

Give thanks to the LORD and proclaim his greatness. Let the whole world know what he has done. Sing to him; yes, sing his praises. Tell everyone about his wonderful deeds. Exult in his holy name; rejoice, you who worship the LORD. Search for the LORD and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given, you children of his servant Israel, you descendants of Jacob, his chosen ones. He is the LORD our God. His justice is seen throughout the land. Remember his covenant forever--the commitment he made to a thousand generations. 1 Chronicles 16:8-15

How will you praise the Lord today? Can you envision yourself one day standing at the Thrones in Heaven, praising the Father, Son and Holy Spirit?

Prayer ~ Lord, You are great and greatly to be praised. There are no other gods like You. I honor You and love You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength. I look forward to an eternity of praising You.

Verse of Salvation ~ The LORD is my strength and my song; he has given me victory (salvation). This is my God, and I will praise him—my father's God, and I will exalt him! Exodus 15:2

Think praise, not punishment

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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What characteristics of Jesus do you see in your life...in the lives of your children and grandchildren?

Monday, July 19, 2021

Do You Need to Reconcile or Get Reacquainted with Jesus?

Meditate. What doesn’t the Lord know?

The LORD knows people's thoughts; he knows they are worthless! Joyful are those you discipline, LORD, those you teach with your instructions. You give them relief from troubled times until a pit is dug to capture the wicked. The LORD will not reject his people; he will not abandon his special possession. Judgment will again be founded on justice, and those with virtuous hearts will pursue it. Psalm 94:11-15

What doesn’t the Lord know? David tells us here that God knows people’s thoughts. Nothing about you is too personal that God doesn’t know it. David goes on to talk about those you teach…disciple. Who are you discipling? It has long been my mantra that everyone should be mentored and should be mentoring someone else. That is really what discipling is all about. Consider how Jesus discipled those who were following Him. He continually taught them…mostly about His Father…but about how people should live and treat each other. He often taught in parables…like the famous Prodigal Son, who returned home after squandering his inheritance. Lesson: the Father is always willing to accept and forgive. Jesus taught that we are to love God…with all our heart, soul, mind and strength, as was taught in Deuteronomy, and we are to love our neighbors as ourselves, see Leviticus 19:18. These two statements sum up the Ten Commandments. But you may say that we don’t live under the Law. Still those commandments are guidelines for life today. Discipling others may need to include learning those commandments. Mostly I think that discipling would be living a Godly life before others…being an example…and meeting others at their point of need. Sometimes that is just listening and helping them to see that God loves them…no matter what. Do you believe that for yourself? How is your relationship with God? Do you need to reconcile or get reacquainted with Jesus? Now is the time to do that…better now than never or when it is too late.

Haystack Rock - Cannon Beach, Oregon
Let Jesus be the Rock in your life.
Then let His light shine in you.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, I humbly come before You considering that I need Your forgiveness once again for my attitude. Help me to be a good example for those You have brought into my life. May they see and feel Your love flowing through me to them

Verse of Salvation ~ But may all who search for you be filled with joy and gladness in you. May those who love your salvation repeatedly shout, "The LORD is great!" Psalm 40:16

Think excellent, not worthless

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

A devotional for everone...not just parents.