June 16 – Encourage Others That The Lord Will Reward Them

May the LORD reward your work, and your wages be full from the LORD, the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to seek refuge. Ruth 2:12 

Boaz has seen how hard Ruth worked gleaning in the fields and he heard how she was caring for her mother-in-law, Naomi. By speaking to her, he was encouraging her to continue taking such good care of Naomi…and that God would provide and protect them. Ruth was a Moabite who had married Naomi’s son—but he had died. Ruth left Moab with Naomi, declaring that Naomi’s God would be her God. Naomi and her family must have shared a great testimony of their God for Ruth to learn about Him and want Him to be her God, too. Now Boaz is reminding her that she has refuge under God’s wing. What a comforting and encouraging statement…just like the mother hen who gathers her little chick under her wings and protects them (see Luke 13:34). Encourage others as Boaz encouraged Ruth to keep on keeping on. Don’t give up.  

 

Training Tip – Give your children a task to do…like weeding the garden or flower beds, picking up nails after a construction project, washing windows, or dusting. Encourage them to do their best at the job. Hard work is worthwhile. Proverbs 14:23 Contemporary English Version. Encourage them while they are working… “Good Job.” Thank them for doing their best work…as if working for the Lord. Sometimes the best work is done when the parents work alongside of the children. 

Lord, hard work is worthwhile, especially if we are encouraged by others or we are encouraging others. You have provided good examples for us…now help us to live by these examples and be encouraging to others.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

 

June 15 – Encouragement – Treat Others Like the Lord

But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. All the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me something to drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; naked, and you clothed Me; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.' Then the righteous will answer Him, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You something to drink? And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? When did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?' The King will answer and say to them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.' Then He will also say to those on His left, 'Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.' Then they themselves also will answer, 'Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?' Then He will answer them, 'Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.' These will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life. Matthew 25:31-46

In this lengthy passage Jesus encourages us to take care of our Christian brothers and sisters. Did you notice the phrase: one of these brothers of Mine? Even if they are strangers, they may be Christians—so care for them just as you would take care of Jesus’ own needs. This reminds me of a verse that talks about working…doing daily tasks or your job… Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men….Colossians 3:23. Whether it is visiting someone who is sick, taking food, providing clothing or working, we need to treat others like we would treat Jesus himself.

Imagine how it feels to be hungry and know that others have food they could give you—but they don’t. How discouraging. In His great Sermon on the Mount Jesus taught…In everything, therefore, treat people the same way you want them to treat you, for this is the Law and the Prophets. Matthew 7:12. This is known as the Golden Rule and was taught by Jewish rabbis even before Jesus time…and in many cultures today. It is truly a value by which to live. Is someone needing food, clothes, shelter, a listening ear, or a friendly smile? Give generously. Provide for others with a good attitude…not expecting anything in return and likely you’ll be blessed as in this verse in Luke…Give, and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure -- pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return. Luke 6:38. 

Training Tip – Encourage your children to encourage others in the family, then friends, neighbors, classmates and even strangers, if you are with them. As they see you encouraging and caring for others, they will learn that is the right thing to do…and they’ll do it, too. 

Lord Jesus, just as Paul taught in 2 Timothy 2:24, help me, my children and my grandchildren to “be kind to everyone.” Open my eyes to see people as You see them and to treat them as I would treat You personally.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 14 – End Time Confidence

Now, little children, abide in Him, so that when He appears, we may have confidence and not shrink away from Him in shame at His coming. 1 John 2:28 

By this, love is perfected with us, so that we may have confidence in the day of judgment; because as He is, so also are we in this world. 1 John 4:17  

Long ago…well forty years was a long time ago…I thought that Jesus would rapture us all during my lifetime! That may still happen, but there were a lot of possibly false teaching in the early 1970’s that focused on Christ’s eminent return. It didn’t happen then and hasn’t happened yet. God’s timing is not our timing. But do be ready for as it says in 1 Corinthians 15:52…in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet; for the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we will be changed. I still find that incredibly exciting…in the twinkling of an eye we will be changed…and go to stand at the throne of God. Read Matthew 24 for more insight from the Lord about His return. A couple of verses focus on being ready…Therefore be on the alert, for you do not know which day your Lord is coming. ... For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:42, 44. Be ready. What does that mean? Physically it won’t make much difference—our bodies will be changed—hurrah! Spiritually being ready means to be in constant prayer—prayed up so that there is nothing that you haven’t talked to the Lord about…sins or just attitudes. Are you ready? 

Training Tip – Pretend with your children that you are going to go on a trip. Ask them what they should pack or do to get ready to go? Pack up a bag and then go from one room of your house to another room and pretend that is your destination. Then unpack your bags. Did you forget anything? How about toothbrushes? Those are essential no matter where you are. Make a list of things of those forgotten things and remind your kids that next time you go on a trip, check the checklist! 

Briefly tell your family about Jesus coming back and how He wants us to be ready. What should they do to be ready for a trip with Jesus?

Lord – Help us confidently prepare for life everyday that we may share Your love with others…and help us to be prepared for Your return.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Name some foods that begin with the letter B: bananas, beets, bratwurst, broccoli, and black beans. Which do you think would be my one-year old granddaughter’s favorite food? Black beans!

Not everyone knows how to cook black beans from scratch. Most of us just open a can, rinse, heat and serve.

 

Take 1 cup of black beans, sort and rinse them. The dried beans could have little rocks in them or broken beans. Use only the whole beans. Rinse them well and then cover them with water and soak them overnight. If it is warm in your home, place them in the refrigerator to avoid fermentation. Then drain and add 4 cups of water in a heavy saucepan. Bring to a boil and cook on low heat for about 2 hours or until the beans are soft. You may add about 1 tablespoon oil and some salt to the water if desired. More water may need to be added during the cooking time if the water level gets low as the beans absorb the water, or it is evaporated in the process. These beans are high in protein, fiber, iron, manganese and an antioxidant called anthocyanins. They can be used in salads, chili, stews, casseroles…or as Lydia love them—eatting them just plain. Enjoy them soon!   

Happy 1^st Birthday, Lydia! 

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 13 – Stand Tall in His Confidence

Having confidence in your obedience, I write to you, since I know that you will do even more than what I say. Philemon 1:21

 

We have confidence in the Lord concerning you, that you are doing and will continue to do what we command. 2 Thessalonians 3:4

 

Confidence in the Lord can result in confidence in yourself and others. Knowing that the Lord is in control—that He loves us gives us confidence. Focus on His love—His willingness to give up His life to bring us into reconciliation with our Heavenly Father—His Father. That is love. When you think about Jesus’ love doesn’t it just make you want to stand taller? Take a deep breath and exhale. Feel the love of Jesus and just feel yourself sit or stand straighter. Sometimes when we tell others that Jesus loves them, they feel unworthy—but Jesus didn’t die in vain. If they confess their sins, they are worthy. Just as it says in Romans 10:9…that if you confess with your mouth Jesus as Lord, and believe in your heart that God raised Him from the dead, you will be saved….Saved from your past sins, saved from your present sins, saved from your future sins…saved from hell and the power of Satan. Saved from yourself? From your lack of confidence? Have confidence in the Lord and stretch that into continued confidence in yourself. Don’t give up…the Lord didn’t go to the cross in vain…He didn’t rise from the dead without hope…or ascend into Heaven for nothing. You are worthy of His love. Be obedient to His commandments—His teachings. Stand tall for a purpose. The love of the Lord overflowing from your heart.

 

Training Tip – Pray with your family about issues that they may be facing, even obedience to you…and ask God to give them confidence. Confidence to do what is right, to follow God’s way, and to be obedient.

 

Can you think of a way for your children to encourage one another or someone else to have confidence in themselves…or in the Lord? One way on these hot summer days may be to take them swimming…and encourage them to do their best dive. It may be helpful for them to encourage each other as they dive. Rate them against only themselves and hold up score cards after each dive. If possible video record several of their dives so that they can see for themselves how they are doing…and that they have improved. Seeing an improvement should give them more confidence. Give them a prize or award for their best dive.

 

Lord, Just as Paul wrote to Philemon, on behalf of the run-away slave Onesimus, have confidence in my obedience to you, since you know that I will do even more than what you say. Philemon 1:21  

 

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 12 – Confidence in You

Great is my confidence in you; great is my boasting on your behalf. I am filled with comfort; I am overflowing with joy in all our affliction. ... I rejoice that in everything I have confidence in you. - 2 Corinthians 7:4, 16 

In the Sound of Music, Maria sings a song with the lyrics…

I have confidence in sunshine

I have confidence in rain

I have confidence that spring will come again

Besides which you see I have confidence in me

Even though she is apprehensive about taking care of seven children, she exudes confidence—and that gives her confidence. That is the same confidence about which Paul writes to the church in Corinth. He has confidence in them which is spoken of with rejoicing. 

Confidence begins with…a positive commitment to a situation. An enthusiastic encouragement, like that given by Paul, is uplifting to a person or group receiving the encouragement—and gives joy to the one giving the support.   

Training Tip – Again, encourage your children, even in some small way, to be confident in something they are doing. Since it is summertime and there are fewer activities happening in their lives right now—create an opportunity for them to challenge them to have confidence. 

Lord – Therefore let us draw near with confidence to the throne of grace, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 11 – Speak with Confidence

Now as they observed the confidence of Peter and John and understood that they were uneducated and untrained men, they were amazed, and began to recognize them as having been with Jesus. ... And now, Lord, take note of their threats, and grant that Your bond-servants may speak Your word with all confidence…. Acts 4:13, 29 

Praying, asking the Lord to give them confidence, Peter and John received the thing for which they had asked. Confidence. Confidence is that value that helps us to rely on the Lord for all things and gives us the strength to keep on going forward in the direction that we are call because God is leading us. It makes us aware that we are only responsible for being obedient—not for the results. Although we are always responsible for our own actions.  The end result of what God is calling us to do or say will be governed by Him.

 

We can see such a great example of this in Peter.  He was impulsive, like when he got out of the boat to walk on the water to Jesus (Matthew 14:27-31), but he also denied Jesus and didn’t stand us for what was right when Jesus was on trial and crucified. After Jesus’ resurrection and ascension, Peter is filled with the Holy Spirit and preaches to a group of Jews from many nations in Jerusalem to celebrate the Festival of Pentecost. Three thousand souls were saved that day (Acts 2:41) As Peter goes on in his ministry to the Jews he doesn’t assume that God has just gifted him with a great speaking ability. Now Peter asks God for confidence and is again empowered to preach. He didn’t ask for riches or for the persecution that they faced to be taken away. No, he just asked for confidence, sometimes translated as boldness. That “boldness” is the very thing for which Peter is best remembered. In Acts he spoke with confidence for the Lord—boldness. That is the very thing many Christians ask for now. We want to be like Peter—bold and confident that what we say will lead others to Christ. 

Training Tip – In a study described in the book The Outliers: the Story of Success by Malcolm Gladwell it was found that children from upper class families were more assertive and had more confidence in dealing with adults and taking charge of their circumstances. An example of this was a child who was going to the doctor for a routine check-up. His mother asked if he had any questions for the doctor and then role played him asking the doctor about bumps under his arm. She was teaching him that he has the right to speak up. When the boy talked to the doctor about his concern he spoke to the doctor directly and the doctor carried on a conversation with him directly, not going through the boy's mother as is typically seen. That child reasons and negotiates and jokes with adults, including his parents. Lower class children don’t interact with adults in this way and haven’t been taught a sense of entitlement that will help them succeed. 

Do you want your children to be assertive and have confidence in themselves? Deliberately teach them to speak up and stand up for themselves. Encourage them to question what is going on around them—at school, church, and in your neighborhood or community. Help them by role-playing situations in which they may initially feel uncomfortable. This may be useful for getting them ready for the first day of school, first day in a new school if you have moved, visiting the doctor, dentist, or anytime they have to get up in front of others, like a dance recital or giving a speech. Encouragement with a gentle tone, not badgering them to make them do something perfectly. Perfect isn’t as important as them learning to take control of the situation or just feeling comfortable in a new environment. Encourage—encourage—encourage. That is the key to healthy confident children who want to seek the Lord for themselves. 

Lord – As it says in Proverbs 14:26…In the fear of the LORD there is strong confidence, and his children will have refuge. Give us refuge from the persecution that may be around and before us and give us the boldness of Peter to speak Your words of salvation to others for salvation in Christ is the most important thing in this world.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 10 – Ask in Confidence

This is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 1 John 5:14

He will hear us. That is repeated over and over. Seek. Ask. Knock. Have confidence that He will hear your prayers and answer them. Of course whatever you ask for needs to be in God’s will. He won’t give you a million dollars to be tossed around like play money. He will give you peace, joy, love, strength, courage…and other things like confidence. As many people know He provides for our everyday needs and some of our wants…sometimes beyond our expectations. Have confidence—He does hear our prayers.

Training Tip – Teach your children the song, Seek Ye First.

Seek ye first the kingdom of God
And His righteousness;
And all these things shall be added unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!

Ask, and it shall be given unto you;
Seek, and you shall find.
Knock, and it shall be opened unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!

Man shall not live by bread alone,
But by every word
That proceeds out from the mouth of God.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!
Source: http://www.hymnal.net 

Explain the scripture But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:33. What things? The previous verses tell us about those things. Do not worry then, saying, 'What will we eat?' or 'What will we drink?' or 'What will we wear for clothing?' For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. Matthew 6:31-33. Seek God’s kingdom—which is a spiritual kingdom…and can be right within your very heart and soul, if you ask God. Righteousness—right living before God—is only available through God’s gift of grace. We can’t be righteous on our own. 

Lord God, Your kingdom is above all things and I long to worship You with all my heart, soul, mind and strength first. May the joy of the Lord fill us all as we seek and serve You.

 

Happy Birthday, Mary Lee!

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 9 – Creative

Do not neglect the spiritual gift within you, which was bestowed on you through prophetic utterance with the laying on of hands by the presbytery. Take pains with these things; be absorbed in them, so that your progress will be evident to all. Pay close attention to yourself and to your teaching; persevere in these things, for as you do this you will ensure salvation both for yourself and for those who hear you.  1 Timothy 4:14 -16

Creativity is being resourceful and imaginative using the best of the goods and talents we have been given to serve the Lord. What a great virtue for which to strive. Jesus, as creator of this world, has got to be at the very height of creativity! There are so many intricate details in cells that we can’t even see…and the grandeur of the mountains and the massive display of stars in the night sky are totally awe inspiring. No one can out create Him! We can only hope that His creativity flows through us. I have experienced that creativity flow many times. One time in particular I was doing some watercolor postcards from scenes of our Easter drama. A talented engineer in our church had brilliantly created a dove that came down from the ceiling on a wire right to Jesus’ (an actor’s) hand. It was a very dramatic effect—awesome. As I was doing a watercolor depicting that flying bird, the paint just seemed to flow across the paper creating the white dove (blank paper) outlined by a variegated blue sky. Very striking. It inspired me to continue to create more watercolor postcards depicting various Easter themes or objects—crown of thorns, stone rolled away, and unopened jars of spices. 

Have you ever felt that imaginative creativity flow through you? Maybe it wasn’t a drawing or painting, but something that you wrote, a speech that you gave or prayer you prayed. When you are at peace with God, filled with the Holy Spirit…working together…as in 1 Corinthians 6:1… And working together with Him, we also urge you not to receive the grace of God in vain…creative things will happen. Whenever possible live in peace, just as Paul wrote… Finally, brethren, rejoice, be made complete, be comforted, be like-minded, live in peace; and the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11. May that peace bring you creativity.

Training Tip – Most kids love to be creative—how about yours? While the weather is nice take some time for some real fun messy creativity. Let your kids finger paint outside. Last summer I had a sort of Grandma’s Camp one day. One of our activities was finger…well, actually hand-painting. I put up rolls of paper on the fence and let the kiddos dip their fingers and then hands into paint and create their own masterpieces. It was fun. We also washed some towels and clothes in an old fashioned wash basin with a washboard.

It is good to read kids stories or create stories together and then let them illustrate those tales. Some kids will be more creative with the stories and others more creative with the illustrations. Either way it will create fun memories and build stronger relationships. And relationships are what life is all about.

Lord Jesus, You are an awesome creator and we humbly acknowledge that even our most glorious creations pale in comparison to Yours. Help us to continue to seek to be more creative and to be inspired by the beauty that You have so wonderfully made.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 8 – Reliable Walk

For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all power, according to His glorious might, for the attaining of all steadfastness and patience; joyously giving thanks to the Father, who has qualified us to share in the inheritance of the saints in Light. Colossians 1:9-12

Walk in a manner worthy of the Lord—reliable. Prayer is a powerful thing. God gives us the ability to access Him through our prayers—and He is all powerful, so that opens doors to more power for us. Jesus said…Until now you have asked for nothing in My name; ask and you will receive, so that your joy may be made full. John 16:24. Simply ask—pray. Just as Paul wrote to the Colossians, I have not ceased to pray for you and ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding. Do you know that even if I don’t know you…I do pray for you as you read this blog? I ask God to bless you with understanding and wisdom…and joy as you apply His word to your life.

Larry McCall in his book Walking like Jesus Did asked “Who do you want to be like when you grow up spiritually?” What a great question.  Of course we’d hope the answer would be to be more like Jesus as we mature spiritually. Are you striving for that? How’s your progress? Who is holding you accountable? Find someone who is seeking to know Jesus more deeply and hold each other accountable as you walk in a manner worthy of the Lord. Jewish people have the custom of studying scripture in the presence of others—a haverim. The principle that Jesus told His disciples when He taught them about prayer can apply to anytime we are focusing on Jesus…Again I say to you, that if two of you agree on earth about anything that they may ask, it shall be done for them by My Father who is in heaven. For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst. Matthew 18:19-20. Imagine that Jesus is with you now. We are gathered at our computers, studying His word, seeking to know Him better, and praying that He will bless us with answers to our earnest prayers. Jesus is here.  

Training Tip – Do your children know that concept that Jesus is with them always? Read the scripture in Matthew 18:19-20 and in Hebrews 13:5 (I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you) to them and talk about how Jesus is always with us…when we are awake, asleep, playing soccer or baseball, riding in the car, playing, or praying. Set an extra place at your table tonight…and don’t be too surprised if the children share their food with Jesus!

What verses have your children memorized? Help your children memorize verses about God, His creation, His love for us, and their responsibilities—loving others and obeying. Make flash cards and practice the verses (one verse per week) in the morning and evening. Here’s a short list you may want to include:

Genesis 1:1- In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.

Psalm 19:1 - The heavens declare the glory of God.

Psalm 139:14 - I am wonderfully made.

Deuteronomy 6:5 - You shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

Matthew 22:39 - You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

1 Corinthians 10:31 - Whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Colossians 3:20 - Children, be obedient to your parents in all things.

1 John 4:7 - Beloved, let us love one another, for love is from God; and everyone who loves is born of God and knows God.

Psalm 118:24 - This is the day which the LORD has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it.

Matthew 18:20 - For where two or three have gathered together in My name, I am there in their midst. 

Lord God, You are awesome and we worship You. Help us to walk and live in a way that is pleasing to You and may we be more like Jesus everyday. Thank you that You are always with us and that You hear our prayers.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 7 – Heart Check-Up

Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy. But to me it is a very small thing that I may be examined by you, or by any human court; in fact, I do not even examine myself. For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted; but the one who examines me is the Lord. 1 Corinthians 4:1-4

The Lord gives us a heart check-up regularly to see if we are emulating His characteristic of reliability. Are we reliable to Christ, to our spouses, parents, family, friends, neighbors…even to other drivers on the streets? If we stay in our lane, obey the speed limit, watch out for other cars and trucks and don’t get smashed up, we are reliable drivers and our insurance company may even reward us with lower premiums. But how do we “stay in our lane” when it comes to our relationships with others? Like Paul was writing here to the people in Corinth, I am not conscious of anything I’ve done wrong. But we must look deeper…allow our Lord to examine our heart and see if there be any is any sin in me…any wicked ways.

You have tested my thoughts and examined my heart in the night. You have scrutinized me and found nothing wrong. I am determined not to sin in what I say. I have followed your commands, which keep me from following cruel and evil people. My steps have stayed on your path; I have not wavered from following you. Psalm 17:3-5 NLT

The Lord examines our hearts. Who are we accountable to besides the Lord? Ourselves? Our family and friends? May we follow God commands and be found trustworthy—reliable. 

Training Tip – Give your child a small task to do…one that may not be his or her usual job. Then go away and check later to see if they have done what they were asked to do. If they have…praise them for being reliable and doing what they were asked to do. If they didn’t do it…give them another chance, but explain the concept of being reliable…doing what is asked or expected. Then when you check on them again, hopefully they’ll have done the task and you can reinforce the reliability concept with great praise and hugs.  

Lord Jesus, thank you for holding us accountable, for examining our hearts and lives. May we truly not go off Your pathway—but to live in ways that please You, following Your commands. 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

What food do you love to eat? I ask my family and friends this often. I just want to please them.

Today let’s feast on a summertime comfort food…Rhubarb. Rhubarb is a family favorite that goes way back in my family. We had a big patch of rhubarb that grew next to our pump house when I was a kid. It was always over producing nice stalks of rhubarb for us and we had our fill of rhubarb pie, rhubarb cobbler and rhubarb pudding every summer. Recently a friend asked if I’d ever had rhubarb tapioca pudding. I’m sure I did. My mom could find amazing ways to fix rhubarb. Here’s what I found on Food.com, modified it to match what my Mom made. It’s as good as her creation! Enjoy! 

Rhubarb Tapioca Pudding

4 cups fresh rhubarb, chopped into 1/2-inch or smaller pieces

Juice from ½ lemon

1 cup sugar

6 tablespoons quick-cooking tapioca

1/4 teaspoon table salt

1 tsp cinnamon

½ tsp each nutmeg and cardamom - optional

2 cups water

2 cups strawberries, greens removed, sliced

Topping of whipped cream, cream or vanilla ice cream 

Sprinkle the rhubarb with lemon juice and sugar and then put in the fridge overnight. In a saucepan mix together all except strawberries and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring often, until rhubarb begins to release its juices.  Reduce heat and simmer until rhubarb is tender, about 3 minutes. This can be prepared in the microwave stirring every three minutes until the tapioca is cooked.  The tapioca will thicken as it cool for about 20 minutes. Add strawberries. Top with whipped cream, drizzle with plain cream or serve with vanilla ice cream. You could serve this over pound cake for a special birthday treat.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 6 – Trust and Rely on the Lord

Who is among you that fears the LORD, that obeys the voice of His servant, that walks in darkness and has no light? Let him trust in the name of the LORD and rely on his God. Isaiah 50:10 

God is reliable. He is always there…He is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow. He doesn’t change. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever. Hebrews 13:8. That is comforting. We can rely on Jesus…on God to be there for us 24-7 and to always hear our prayers…and praises. You can trust Him with your deepest fears…but you don’t have to fear Him. Respect God—that is what that words “fear the Lord” means here. Obey His voice, His words. How do you know His words? Read your Bible. If you don’t have a copy of the Bible, you can easily access it on-line. A couple of my favorite Bible web sites are the Blue Letter Bible at www.blueletterbible.org and the Bible Gateway at www.biblegateway.com. Both are searchable sites and you can rely on them to give you God’s word in the translation you like to read best.  

Training Tip – Kids love darkness, adventure and flashlights. Take them for a walk in the dark. I know…it is way after their bedtime before it gets dark now. So you may want to save this adventure for wintertime or maybe you can find a really dark place to go for a walk together. You could just blindfold them and then step away from them, reassuring them that you will be nearby. Step away from them and call them to come to you one step at a time, listening to your voice and following it. If they bump into each other or something keep calling them to obey your voice and come to you. When they get to you talk about how they obeyed your voice…your directions. Explain that they trusted you…and that is what we have to do with God. Trust Him. So then tell them that Jesus lights the way for us to find God the Father…and then give them a flashlight and let them shine the way home. 

Lord – Just like it says in Psalms 40:3…You put a new song in my mouth, a song of praise to our God; I hope that many will see it, fear (respect God) and will trust in You as their LORD. Thank you for never changing and that we can rely on You to always be the same.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 5 – Reliable Friends

Many will say they are loyal friends, but who can find one who is truly reliable? Proverbs 20:6 NLT

King David had a reliable friend. Jonathan. Jesus had twelve friends that many would have thought were loyal to Him…but when it came down to real challenges…He stood alone. Alone as He was beaten. Alone as He was crucified. Alone. His “friends” were not reliable. Judas betrayed Him to the Jewish priests and Peter denied Him. Are you a reliable friend to your friends? Are you a reliable follower of Jesus Christ? 

Training Tip – Are you a good example of reliability to your children? When you say that you’ll pick them up after school, are you always the last parent to get there? By your actions are you teaching your children to be reliable? Do some role playing and have them “pick you up” after school or a sporting event.” Are they reliable and on time?

Are your children “reliable” friends to their friends? Have them make a list of their friends…or you make the list if they are too young to write or spell. Which ones on that list do you or they consider loyal? Are they loyal to their friends—not being critical of them.

Lord Jesus, You along are worthy of our hearts desire and we long to worship You. You are a good example to us of the loyalty you showed with Mary, Martha and their brother Lazarus. They totally demonstrated their loyalty to You, Jesus, when opened their home to You and your followers. Help us to be loyal, hospitable and reliable to our friends and other Christians.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 4 - Reliable

O LORD, lead me in Your righteousness because of my foes; Make Your way straight before me. There is nothing reliable in what they say; their inward part is destruction itself. Their throat is an open grave; they flatter with their tongue. Psalm 5:8-9  

David prayed to the Lord as he wrote what we read now in Psalm 5. His enemies were not reliable—but David wanted to be reliable and righteous—to live the right way before the Lord. He was asking God to not only lead him, but for God’s path to be straight before him. That path represents righteousness—right living. This reminds us of another famous Psalm that David wrote.

The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name's sake. Psalm 23:1-3

Walking down God’s path of righteousness will certainly be pleasing to God and will help us to be reliable people—those on whom God, our family, our friends and people in need in our community can depend. Can you rely on yourself? Are you reliable to those around you? 

Training Tip – Set up an obstacle course in your backyard or nearby park with whatever you can find around your home—things like empty milk jugs, large wooden blocks, rocks, folding or lawn chairs, even string or rope. Then set up a course along a straight path between two points about equal to the distance on the obstacle course. Time the children as they run through each course or have them run races against each other through the two courses. Ask them, “Which was the better course?” The obstacle course may provide more fun for them, but the straight path will be the faster one—the reliable one. Discuss which paths in life are better…the rocky ones that twist and turn, or the straight and narrow path. 

Lord God, may I walk in the way of righteousness, in the midst of the paths of justice… as written in Proverbs 8:20. I want to be pleasing to You and reliable to my family and friends.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 3 – Respect Yourself

And he (Jesus) answered, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself." Luke 10:27

Love and Respect. You gotta love yourself to respect yourself—gotta love yourself to love others. Think about it. Can you respect others if you don’t respect yourself? It starts and goes beyond the treat others the way you want to be treated…the Golden Rule. Love and respect yourself the way you want others to love and respect you—with honor, honesty, integrity, kindness, wisdom and understanding. You may feel that you aren’t worthy of that. I’m not smart—so ask God for wisdom. Jesus promised that we would get whatever we ask for …see Matthew 21:22: And all things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive. You are worthy…remembering that if you have accepted Jesus as your savior, you are a child of the King…an adopted child of God. (See John 1:12 - But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name….) Do you respect The King? Then you can respect His son or daughter…that would be YOU!  

Training Tip – Do your children like themselves? Do they love themselves? Even a three year old child can have a sad face, when they know they’ve done something wrong. During a teachable time when they aren’t unhappy, play a funny face game. Make a funny face and challenge them to make the same funny face. Use a mirror so that they can see how they look.  Make a series of faces, including an unhappy face. Let them know that when that unhappy face comes from their heart…it is really a deep down sad face. Tell them that you love them no matter what…but that they need to choose to do what is right, to treat themselves and other in nice ways so that their face and their heart are happy. 

Lord Jesus, I love you with all of my heart, soul, mind and strength. Help me to see myself as You see me…and to love myself so that I can love others for You.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 2 – Where is My Respect?

A son honors his father, and a servant his master. Then if I am a father, where is My honor? And if I am a master, where is My respect? says the LORD of hosts to you, O priests who despise My name. But you say, How have we despised Your name? Malachi 1:6  

Honor and respect go hand in hand. Could the Lord say to you, “Where is My respect?” How do you show your respect to the Lord? Do you read His Word daily, pray constantly, follow Jesus’ teachings…put others first, treat others the way you want to be treated…obey the Ten Commandments?

Training Tip – Kids love to sing. Find a song you know or make up a song using scripture to praise the Lord.

And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength. (Mark 12:30) 

Lord God, we love you with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. You alone are worthy of our praise. Help us to show our respect for You and others.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

June 1 – Respect What is Right

Be of the same mind toward one another; do not be haughty in mind, but associate with the lowly. Do not be wise in your own estimation. Never pay back evil for evil to anyone. Respect what is right in the sight of all men. If possible, so far as it depends on you, be at peace with all men. Romans 12:16-18

 

Respect what is right…in the sight of all men. Paul gives the Romans and us such good advice for right living. I question the part of in the sight of all men. We shouldn’t live to please other people—but to do what is right in God’s eyes. Doing what is right—in God’s will—should be most honoring and respectful to the Lord…and thus to others. Being at peace with everyone is just icing on the cake. Peace brings such a calmness—who could not enjoy peace that comes with being in right relationships with God and others? Do you have respect for God and others…and that peace? 

Training Tip – Talk with your family and see what they consider “respect.” Children sometime have odd views of particular words—so it is good to talk about concepts sometimes to make sure you all are on the same page—understanding things the same way. Talk about the 5 W’s and an H

Who should be respected—virtually everyone

Where – everywhere

When – always

Why – because God commands us to “love one another”

What – by showing honor and having a good attitude towards others

How – like “what” by being kind, thoughtful, considerate and obedient.  

Lord Jesus, You were such a good and holy example for us, never paying back evil for evil to anyone. Help us to be more like you, respectful and obedient to our Heavenly Father.

All scripture quoted from the New American Standard Bible (NASB) unless otherwise noted.

© 2013 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.