Are You Pleasing?

Therefore we also have as our ambition, whether at home or absent, to be pleasing to Him. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad. 2 Corinthians 5:9-10

 

Judgement may be kind of scary for some people. They’ll have to face up to their bad deeds…we all will. What have you done in your life that you know was not pleasing to the Lord? Have you asked for His forgiveness for that action or attitude? Facing up to them now I think is a good idea. We all have choices to make. Moment by moment we all make little choices…that can end up influencing big choices at change points in our lives. I’ve been reflecting lately that we can’t look back at what might have been…or how things could have turned out. But God doesn’t want us to “look back.” But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. Look ahead and be ready. I blogged that recently and so I am preaching to myself. Don’t look back—plan and look ahead. My ambition is to serve You, Lord. I need to make good choices for today…that will allow God to work in and through me to serve and help others for the Lord. Day by day—moment by moment. Be pleasing to the Lord.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—work in and through me that I would live a life that is pleasing to You…and make what I think, say and do all be of service to others for You. Attitude is everything. You are worthy of my praise.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Liberty and Freedom

For the Lord is the Spirit, and wherever the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom. So all of us who have had that veil removed can see and reflect the glory of the Lord. And the Lord—who is the Spirit—makes us more and more like him as we are changed into His glorious image. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 NLT

 

Our liberty and freedom are found in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Sure we here in the United States have freedom because of our democracy and wonderful armed forces that keep our country secure and safe. Relatively safe. There are always going to be forces within and beyond all countries of the world that want to cause harm. We can be secure in knowing that it is the Lord who fights our battles for us. As the Spirit of the Lord declared through Jahaziel…Do not fear or be dismayed because of this great multitude, for the battle is not yours but God’s. 2 Chronicles 20: 15. For we are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies, but against evil rulers and authorities of the unseen world, against mighty powers in this dark world, and against evil spirits in the heavenly places. Therefore, put on every piece of God's armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. Ephesians 6:12- 13 NLT. The battle that we face is spiritual…and if God is for us who can be against us? Put on your armor daily…just as it says in Ephesians 6: 10-18. As we yield our lives to Him waiting upon the Lord…for that Day of the Lord…we can be assured that we are being spiritually transformed to be more like Jesus every day. That is freedom. Freedom to choose to be like Jesus. Where do you stand with God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit today? Are you experiencing His freedom?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—Bless and guide our nation and each Christian around the world as we celebrate another year of freedom. Give our leaders wisdom and may all that we do bring glory to You.

 

Happy 4^th of July!

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Is Time Running Out?

This is all the more urgent, for you know how late it is; time is running out. Wake up, for our salvation is nearer now than when we first believed. The night is almost gone; the day of salvation will soon be here. So remove your dark deeds like dirty clothes, and put on the shining armor of right living. Because we belong to the day, we must live decent lives for all to see. Don't participate in the darkness of wild parties and drunkenness, or in sexual promiscuity and immoral living, or in quarreling and jealousy. Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don't let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires. Romans 13:11-14 NLT

 

This year is half over. You may be asking yourself—where has it gone? Time goes so fast…and faster as we get older. So time is literally running out. What have you got planned for today…for tomorrow? Paul was saying to the church at Rome…wake up. The day of salvation—the day of the Lord—The Day is coming and will be here for us before we’re ready if we don’t plan ahead. All this advice that Paul is giving about not indulging evil desires and wild parties is probably wasted on most of us older folks—but it is a word to the wise to pass on to the younger generation. Oh—lustful thoughts may try to drift intoy our mind—but have a plan. Take those thoughts captive and don’t let them into your head. Remember that Jesus taught that to think a sinful act is to do it (see Matthew 5:28). As Paul advised… live decent lives for all to see. Be holy. Share holy thoughts and scripture passages with your family and the person that you are mentoring. We all should be mentored by someone…and mentor someone. As we look towards the Fourth of July—our nation’s birthday—may we realize how blessed we are. Do something today to share God’s love and draw others to Him.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, wake me up. Show me what I need to be doing to get ready for the Day of the Lord. May all that I think, do and say be acceptable—even holy—and an example to others for how we should live our lives.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

Fourth of July is usually a big camping day for our family—but we might just be in our backyard this year. How about you? Here’s a fun and easy idea to try with your kids or grandkiddos that we’ve adapted from The Scout’s Outdoor Cookbook. You’ll need a paper milk or juice half-gallon carton for each hot dog. Remove the spout (plastic variety) from the carton, if there is one.

 

Grandpa’s Flaming Dog

One hot dog per person—or more as their appetite requests.

Bun for the hot dog

Sliced cheddar cheese, if desired

Heavy duty aluminum foil

Newspaper

Wax covered paper milk carton

Fire pit

 

Catsup, mustard, chopped onion and relish condiments to add to the finished dog.

 

Slice the hot dog length wise, just creating a little canal.  Fold or tear the cheese and place in the canal of the hot dog. Place it in the bun and wrap in aluminum foil. Then wrap it in a sheet of newspaper, open the top of the empty paper carton, and place it inside. Put the carton upright in a fire pit and set the newspaper on fire. The carton will catch fire and slowly burn. When the carton is ashes, the hot dog will be done. Remove from the fire pit with tongs. Unwrap and enjoy the hot dog with the usual condiments. 

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

HOPE

And not only this, but also we ourselves, having the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our body. For in hope we have been saved, but hope that is seen is not hope; for who hopes for what he already sees? But if we hope for what we do not see, with perseverance we wait eagerly for it. Romans 8:23-25

 

Faith. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1. For we through the Spirit, by faith, are waiting for the hope of righteousness. Galatians 5:5. Faith and Hope. Those two qualities are so intertwined. There is no faith without hope…and no hope without faith. Faith for what we don’t see and hope for that same unseen thing. In this case it is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ—who we don’t see now—but hope to see Him one day. That Day of the Lord when He returns is the ultimate hope. It will be a wonderful day for those who believe in Jesus…although some people have portrayed it as an awful day. One in which people will be filled with terror because of the destruction of the earth. For Christians we can rejoice in that Day—it will be the day of our home going—our time to be with our adopted father—the Heavenly Father. Going to His Home—Heaven. Cling to your hope. I am waiting eagerly for that day—with great hope.

 

Prayer ~ Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for us, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. 1 Peter 1:3-5.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Are You Being Led by the Spirit of God?

So then, brethren, we are under obligation, not to the flesh, to live according to the flesh—for if you are living according to the flesh, you must die; but if by the Spirit you are putting to death the deeds of the body, you will live. For all who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. Romans 8:12-14

 

We don’t have to live like others in the world—in fleshly ways. Sinful ways. We can chose to live holy lives. Why would we want to do that? Isn’t sin more fun…won’t it make us happy? For just a fleeting moment it may seem like sin will make you happy…and that is what so many people are seeking. Happiness. Think of it like a big lollipop.  It makes you happy for the time that that sweet taste is on your tongue…but then too much of it makes your stomach upset…and too much of it can make your teeth decay. So where is the happiness in an upset tummy or toothache? We can choose better. Therefore, having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all defilement of flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1. Get clean. Get holy. The choice is ours. No sin—like no lollipops—in our lives. Be led by the Spirit.  

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, lead me in the paths of righteousness for Your name sake (Psalm 23:3) and guide me in the way of the Lord that I will be ready for His return. Bless also my family, friends and neighbors that they would seek God with all of their heart, soul and mind; be led by You—and be children of God.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

Are You a Holy Temple?

Do you not know that you are the temple of God and [that] the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which you are. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17 NKJV

 

A Temple of God. Paul was writing to the Christians at Corinth. The Jews there who had become Christians may have been to the Temple in Jerusalem which was still standing when this letter was written in about 56 AD. The Temple, destroyed in 70 AD, was a magnificent gleaming white and gold structure that would have been breathtaking to see. Another temple that the Corinthians would have been familiar with was the sinful temple of Aphrodite where there were reportedly 1000 prostitutes. In this letter Paul was telling the Corinth Christians that their body (and the church body) is the dwelling place—the Temple—of God the Holy Spirit. The Temple in Jerusalem was a consecrated building with the Holy of Holies where God met with human priests once a year. So he was telling them that their bodies should be consecrated and holy for the Lord—not defiled like that of the Aphrodite temple. They—and we—were to take care of their bodies, not destroy them. He repeats the message a couple of chapters later. Don't you realize that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honor God with your body. 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 NLT.

 

What are you doing to make your “temple” honorable, holy and worthy of the Lord?  

 

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, I am Yours—I belong to You. You paid an exorbitant price for me when Your Son Jesus died on the cross for my sin. Holy Spirit, please continue to show me anything in my life that may not be pleasing—then cleanse and renew my spirit. May You find my heart, soul and mind holy and acceptable—a worthy place for you to dwell. Live within and through me.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Grow Up!

Dear brothers and sisters, when I was with you I couldn't talk to you as I would to spiritual people. I had to talk as though you belonged to this world or as though you were infants in the Christian life. I had to feed you with milk, not with solid food, because you weren't ready for anything stronger. And you still aren't ready, for you are still controlled by your sinful nature. You are jealous of one another and quarrel with each other. Doesn't that prove you are controlled by your sinful nature? Aren't you living like people of the world? 1 Corinthians 3:1-3 NLT

 

It’s time to grow up. To apply what we’ve learned spiritually and become mature Christians. If we’re just being spoon-fed…only listening to the sermons on Sunday and not getting into and really studying the meat of God’s Word—on other days of the week, then shame on us. Grow Up! Don’t let your old sinful nature dictate what you think, say and do. Take responsibility for your actions and apply what you have learned from studying God’s Word. What do you want to be doing when Christ returns—if it is in your lifetime? Do you want to know His Word…to have memorized some of it? Do you want to have led at least one person…or maybe a hundred people to the Lord? Or would you rather know the baseball statistics for all the American teams, be able to discuss the latest episode of your favorite TV programs, or chat about the marital dramas of Hollywood actors as noted in the tabloids? I’m sure that for me and my household…we’d rather know the stories, parables, and application of the Biblical truths. Even my six year old grandson would rather read Biblical stories, digging into the solid food of the Word than discuss baseball scores. But he does enjoy a good cartoon or animated children’s adventure show, especially about firemen, now and then!

 

How about you? Do you want to be controlled by your old sinful nature or can you apply spiritual guidance to your life?    

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me to dig into God’s Word in a new and deeper way—giving me new insights and application of spiritual matters.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

 

Not Spiritual?

But people who aren't spiritual can't receive these truths from God's Spirit. It all sounds foolish to them and they can't understand it, for only those who are spiritual can understand what the Spirit means. 1 Corinthians 2:14 NLT

 

Do you consider yourself a “spiritual” person? Are you filled with the Holy Spirit? That is the spirituality that Paul is referring to here when he writes to the people in the church at Corinth. Spirituality may sound foolish still to people—but there are different types of spirituality out there. Be careful with which spirituality you get involved. If it is not the Holy Spirit that is teaching you, then it may likely be an evil spirit that is trying to fool you…to get your attention away from the true Spirit. As John wrote…Dear friends, do not believe everyone who claims to speak by the Spirit. You must test them to see if the spirit they have comes from God. For there are many false prophets in the world. 1 John 4:1 NLT.

 

Those who don’t have the Holy Spirit in them don’t understand God’s Word—His teachings, unless He reveals it to them. Where would we be without that?  I’m convinced that God reveals Himself to us…but not everyone sees. They are too caught up in their own world or just don’t consider themselves worthy enough to know God. God doesn’t see it that way. He wants a relationship with everyone. One of the most known verses in the Bible is John 3:16. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him shall not perish, but have eternal life.” It doesn’t say that God loved only Americans or only Jews…or only…. It says God so loved THE WORLD.  But not everyone in the world responds to God’s love for them. Maybe they just haven’t heard it yet. I missed telling at least four or five people today that God loves them. May God have mercy on them—and send someone tomorrow to introduce them to Jesus if they don’t already know Him. When it comes to the end of the day…I look back and see where I missed opportunities. But God doesn’t want us to “look back.” But Jesus said to him, "No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God." Luke 9:62. Look ahead and be ready. As Peter wrote…sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks you to give an account for the hope that is in you, yet with gentleness and reverence….1 Peter 3:15. Being ready is important. Remember…You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:40. Be spiritual—seeking the Holy Spirit and be ready.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help all my family, friends, and neighbors see how worthy they are of God’s love. We all are spiritual beings…created in God’s image to have a relationship with Him. He is holy—let us be holy, too.

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

You've Got to be Carefully Taught by the Spirit

Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, so that we may know the things freely given to us by God, which things we also speak, not in words taught by human wisdom, but in those taught by the Spirit, combining spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. 1 Corinthians 2:12-13

 

There is a song in the old “South Pacific” movie with lyrics by Rogers and Hammerstein that say we must be carefully taught. They basically had the right idea—children, as well as adults—have to be taught.

You’ve Got to be Carefully Taught

You've got to be taught
To hate and fear,
You've got to be taught
From year to year,
It's got to be drummed
In your dear little ear
You've got to be carefully taught.

The words go on to say that we have to learn to hate those our relatives hate. That’s not hard to pick up. Children follow their parents’ example so easily. Watch what you teach your children!

 

The Holy Spirit teaches us. I love that He combines spiritual thoughts with spiritual words. In the Greek it is pneumatikos as listed in the Strong’s Lexicon. It emanates from the Divine Spirit. The thoughts aren’t just thoughts—but He puts His thoughts into words that our brains can understand. His thoughts are higher than our thoughts. Are you open to His teachings? How will you know His thoughts? If we read God’s Word—does it confirm the thoughts we are thinking? Think about it.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, teach me with Your thoughts that I would understand You more fully.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Feasting on the Truth

I am telling the truth in Christ, I am not lying, my conscience testifies with me in the Holy Spirit, that I have great sorrow and unceasing grief in my heart. For I could wish that I myself were accursed, separated from Christ for the sake of my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh, who are Israelites, to whom belongs the adoption as sons, and the glory and the covenants and the giving of the Law and the temple service and the promises, whose are the fathers, and from whom is the Christ according to the flesh, who is over all, God blessed forever. Amen. Romans 9:1-5

 

Paul spoke these words to the Christians in Rome. He continues at the end of this same chapter with this: What shall we say then? That Gentiles, who did not pursue righteousness, attained righteousness, even the righteousness which is by faith; but Israel, pursuing a law of righteousness, did not arrive at that law. Why? Because they did not pursue it by faith, but as though it were by works. They stumbled over the stumbling stone, just as it is written, "Behold, I lay in Zion a stone of stumbling and a rock of offense, and he who believes in him will not be disappointed." Romans 9:30-33. I pray often for Jews—especially those in Israel. What a blessing and heritage they have in the Lord…but many don’t see that Jesus is their Messiah. Those are the ones for whom I pray. They are still searching for a political leader—a Messiah—that will lead them out of persecution and bondage. But it is a personal spiritual heritage that they have available to them—and with which believing Gentiles have been blessed. Jesus is indeed our own personal spiritual Messiah. It is not by works that we will be saved—just a gift of knowledge applied to our lives. I feel privileged that God has revealed this to me…just as He did to Peter at Caesarea Philippi (Matthew 16:13-20). Like Paul I have grief in my heart for my adopted kinsmen in Christ who have not yet opened their eyes and their hearts to the Lord. Where do you stand with the Lord? And He (Jesus) said to them, "Why are you troubled, and why do doubts arise in your hearts?”  Luke 24:38.Are your eyes open to the truth that Jesus is the Son of God? Can you share that Good News with others?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, as Jesus said...Do not let your heart be troubled; believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father's house are many dwelling places; if it were not so, I would have told you; for I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also. John 14:1-3.

     Remove the things from the hearts and minds my family, friends and neighbors and others around the world whom You love so that they can see Jesus for who He is…The Son of God. I look forward to the day when Jesus returns and we see Him face to face. For now—I worship Him…as well as You and the Heavenly Father—to whom all praise is due. Blessings on all who hear God’s Word and receive it.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

When I think of the Day of the Lord coming…I don’t want to be found being a glutton. We recently went to a buffet and everything was soooo good that I ate three plates full. Well, two of them were salad plates—but that was still gluttonous. What do you want to be found eating when Christ returns? A nice thick grilled steak, beans and rice, or decadent chocolate mousse pie? Humble pie? This is the best time of the year to just enjoy a fresh fruit salad. God created such variety. So be inspired and add all the fruits your family enjoys or be adventurous and try some new ones.

 

Fresh Fruit Salad

Choose the freshest fruits at your nearby produce store or farmers market. Wash, hull or peel and cut into bite-sized chunks as necessary. Pour a little orange juice over the fruit and add some fresh basil or mint leaves, if desired. Serve cold at any time of the day. Enjoy!

 

Blueberries

Strawberries

Watermelon

Cantaloupe

Honeydew melon

Blackberries

Raspberries

Grapes—red, green, black

Cherries—Queen Anne, Bing,

Pineapple

Mango

Banana

Star fruit

Kiwi

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Choices, Choices, Choices

Therefore, dear brothers and sisters, you have no obligation to do what your sinful nature urges you to do. For if you live by its dictates, you will die. But if through the power of the Spirit you put to death the deeds of your sinful nature, you will live. For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. Romans 8:12-14 NLT.

 

Are you led by the Holy Spirit? Do you allow Him to guide your thoughts, words, and actions? This is powerful stuff. The Holy Spirit has the power of life and death. But we have the choice of life or death—that is eternal life or death—by how we chose to live today…moment by moment. We can chose to be like Esau who give up his birthright for a bowl of soup, like Lot’s wife who looked back at Sodom, like Joshua who chose for his family to serve the Lord, like Esther who stood up for her people, or like Peter who denied Christ…and then repented and not only followed Jesus but led others into a relationship with the Lord as their Savior. We choose. We can ask the Holy Spirit to get rid of our sinful nature and live a life of holiness. Holiness unto the Lord. We choose. Live by our sinful nature or get rid of it. What is the logical choice for you? Choose this day whom you will serve.  

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, by Your power and grace I ask You to cleanse my heart, soul and spirit that I would live a life of holiness—holiness unto the Lord. Holiness in service to the Lord. May everything that I think, do and say be pleasing to You.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Are You Adorned with a Quiet Spirit?

Your adornment must not be merely external—braiding the hair, and wearing gold jewelry, or putting on dresses; but let it be the hidden person of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is precious in the sight of God. 1 Peter 3:3-4

 

Forty-three years ago today I did adorn my hair with flowers, wore a lovely long white gown and received from my sweet husband a gold band wedding band. That was outward adornment. The inward adornment in my heart has grown and changed over the years…and I’ve been pleasantly surprised that some people see within me a gentle and quiet spirit. I still see some rebellion that God is dealing with within me…but I have grown and matured in the Lord—with the guidance of the Holy Spirit. God is good—He is the precious one in my life. His imperishable quality of love is what encourages me—so that I can encourage others. I see that as one of my gifts of the Spirit—encouragement. May the words of my mouth and the meditations of my heart be acceptable to You, Lord. Always. When You return, Jesus, I want my thoughts to be Your thoughts…and my words and actions to be pleasing—not to men, but to You. If I am alive on earth when the Day of the Lord happens, I want to be found doing something honorable in Your Sight. How about you?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, continue to work in my heart and life that I would think, say and do pleasing things…and be adorned with a quiet spirit that is precious to You.

 

Happy 43^rd Anniversary to my sweet Honey!

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Don’t Walk Around Dead

But if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you. Romans 8:11

 

Life to mortal bodies. Do you sometimes feel like you are like the dead walking? Either so tired that you can hardly move…or just not motivated to do anything? Here’s a promise that is just for you…God will give LIFE to your mortal body through the Holy Spirit that lives in you! New life. He raised Jesus from the dead…and one day, believing in Him, you will be raised, too. On that Day of the Lord. In the meantime your body can have life and have it abundantly—like Jesus promised in John 10:10...The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly. We don’t have to walk around like we’re dead.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, refresh my life with the abundant life that Jesus promised. Give me new life that I may share the joy and hope of life with my family, friends and neighbors.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Where Will You Spend Eternity?

Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus. For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has set you free from the law of sin and of death. Romans 8:1-2

 

Set FREE! Free as a bird—to soar over the land—over sin and destruction. Soar over death—no fear. No condemnation—no disapproval. We will all have to go through judgment at some point in time, but we who are in Christ Jesus will not be condemned to death—to hell with its fiery lake. Where do you want to spend eternity? Do you know the story of the lame man named Lazarus who frequently begged at the gates of an unnamed rich man?

Jesus said, "There was a certain rich man who was splendidly clothed in purple and fine linen and who lived each day in luxury. At his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus who was covered with sores. As Lazarus lay there longing for scraps from the rich man's table, the dogs would come and lick his open sores. Finally, the poor man died and was carried by the angels to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried, and his soul went to the place of the dead. There, in torment, he saw Abraham in the far distance with Lazarus at his side. The rich man shouted, 'Father Abraham, have some pity! Send Lazarus over here to dip the tip of his finger in water and cool my tongue. I am in anguish in these flames.' But Abraham said to him, 'Son, remember that during your lifetime you had everything you wanted, and Lazarus had nothing. So now he is here being comforted, and you are in anguish. And besides, there is a great chasm separating us. No one can cross over to you from here, and no one can cross over to us from there.' Then the rich man said, 'Please, Father Abraham, at least send him to my father's home. For I have five brothers, and I want him to warn them so they don't end up in this place of torment.' But Abraham said, 'Moses and the prophets have warned them. Your brothers can read what they wrote.' The rich man replied, 'No, Father Abraham! But if someone is sent to them from the dead, then they will repent of their sins and turn to God.' But Abraham said, 'If they won't listen to Moses and the prophets, they won't listen even if someone rises from the dead.' Luke 16:19-31 NLT

So—what do you think? That rich man wanted to order Lazarus to cool him off—but that wouldn’t happen—and Abraham wouldn’t send Lazarus back to warn the rich guy’s brothers. This is a warning to us all. Be ready. We don’t know when we’ll die—but we can decide where we want to spend eternity. Where will you be? Wishing for a cool drink…or basking in comfort and security.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—thank you for this reminder that we have a choice where we will spend eternity. May we choose wisely and follow Christ’s ways that we would spend eternity with Him.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Where is Your Mind?

For the mind set on the flesh is death, but the mind set on the Spirit is life and peace, because the mind set on the flesh is hostile toward God; for it does not subject itself to the law of God, for it is not even able to do so, and those who are in the flesh cannot please God. However, you are not in the flesh but in the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God dwells in you. But if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, he does not belong to Him. Romans 8:6-9

 

I’m sure you’ve heard the phrase “get your mind out of the gutter?” That is not where you want your mind to be when Christ returns! I keep coming back to one of my favorite verses. And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8 NLT. Think about good stuff—honest things—things that God would want you to think about. Does the Spirit of God live in You? Do you want to have pure thoughts? I’ve found that the best thing to do if I find my mind wandering down the wrong path of thought is to focus on scripture…like the Philippians 4:8 passage, or Jesus instructions in Matthew 22:37 NLT…You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind. There is that “mind” thing again. If you are loving God with all your mind, then it won’t be in the gutter. The choice is yours. Where is your mind going today?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, help me to keep my mind on You…to keep my thoughts pure and acceptable, not only just in case today is the Day of the Lord…but just because it is the right and honorable thing to do…and it does feel good to please You.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

R U Ready for the Day of the Lord?

Now we request you, brethren, with regard to the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and our gathering together to Him, that you not be quickly shaken from your composure or be disturbed either by a spirit or a message or a letter as if from us, to the effect that the day of the Lord has come. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2

 

This is the day which the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24. Every day is the day that the Lord has made…but the Day of the Lord will be a very special day. That is THE day that Jesus will return to earth—sometimes called His Second Coming. For those who are living at that time it is said to be a terrible and frightening day. Behold, the day of the LORD is coming, cruel, with fury and burning anger, to make the land a desolation; and He will exterminate its sinners from it. Isaiah 13:9.

 

When Paul writes to the Christians at Thessalonica he tells them not to get upset when the Day of the Lord comes. Solomon in the book of Proverbs talks about the value of having wisdom. It is good advice to listen to and obey while there is still time. Although Solomon doesn’t address the specific Day of the Lord, we can still consider it wise advice. Now therefore, O sons, listen to me, for blessed are they who keep my ways. Heed instruction and be wise, and do not neglect it. Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at my doorposts. For he who finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD. Proverbs 8:32-35. Time? When will the Day of the Lord come? No one except the heavenly Father knows the hour or the day…but we’ve been told to be ready, and now to not get upset. Don’t lose your cool. We all will die at some time…or we’ll be caught up in the rapture. As we get older it is more likely that our own individual “day of the Lord” will come when we go to meet Him—but it shouldn’t be a day of terror—but one of rejoicing. Either way, whether we meet Jesus in death or in the air in rapture when He returns…it should be a day of rejoicing. But it will be that only for those who have experienced the forgiveness of the Lord. Have you experienced forgiveness for your sins…your mistakes in life choices? I’m hoping that you are ready, not disturbed, but rejoicing in the Lord, for this is the day that the Lord has made.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—once again I ask that You would cleanse my heart…and guide each of my family, friends and neighbors to do the same. Everyone is accountable only for themselves. Holy is the Lord and worthy of our praise—our praise from a clean heart.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Are You an Heir?

So you have not received a spirit that makes you fearful slaves. Instead, you received God's Spirit when He adopted you as his own children. Now we call him, "Abba, Father." For his Spirit joins with our spirit to affirm that we are God's children. And since we are his children, we are his heirs. In fact, together with Christ we are heirs of God's glory. But if we are to share his glory, we must also share his suffering. Romans 8:15-17 NLT

 

His Spirit joins with ours to tell us—to testify to us—that we are God’s children. Picture yourself running to your Heavenly Father…who is reaching out to give you a big hug. A warm embrace. You hug Him back whispering, "Abba, Father." Sweet Papa. My precious Daddy!

 

I recently read the book The Return of the Prodigal Son: A Story of Homecoming by Henri J.M. Nouwen, a priest from the Netherlands, who vividly describes both sons and their relationship to their father in Jesus’ parable known as the Prodigal Son, depicted in the painting by Rembrandt, The Return of the Prodigal Son. Rembrandt painted his rendition of the story in about 1667. Nouwen viewed the painting in Saint Petersburg, Russia at the Hermitage Museum and wrote about his deep connection with the artwork in 1992. He clearly conveys the feelings of the father, the wayward son who has returned home willing to be a slave, and the older, loyal yet jealous son who has remained with his father on the family farm. In the Prodigal Son story as told by Jesus it is often interpreted that the father is God the Father, welcoming home his son who he thought was lost, who is throwing a big celebration to rejoice at his son’s return. He draws the older son into the story—reaching out to encourage him to take part in the celebration. That’s how it is with God—He reaches out to all His sons and daughters. You are mine—let’s rejoice and celebrate. It is such an awesome story when you dig into the meaning behind just the basic storyline and visualize the father embracing his sons. Can you interpret it as both were lost and now are found? With which of the characters in the story do you identify? The younger son, the older son, or perhaps the father? As you look at the growth in your spiritual life can you see yourself in each of these characters? At any rate, let’s celebrate. We were lost and now we are found!

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—we rejoice that we have returned to our Heavenly Father…and to You. Please continue to guide and direct us that whatever we think, say and do would be acceptable to You. Direct us moment by moment to make choices that keep us on the straight and narrow path that would continually lead us to You.

 

Friday’s Feast at the Lord’s Table

The father in the Prodigal Son parable told his servants to kill the fatted calf and prepare a feast—his lost son had returned home. What a celebration that must have been! It is like the feast that we anticipate we will one day have in Heaven. What is your favorite food? Will God have that prepared for your homecoming feast? I’m sure He will! He knows us and He loves us! How about instead of a fatted calf we’ll have some buffalo steaks. Grilled to perfection.

 

Buffalo Steaks

Rub with the herb and spice mixture below—or use your favorite fresh chopped herbs, like rosemary and thyme. Pour about a half teaspoon of olive oil over the steaks. Buffalo meat is not as marbled or naturally oiled as beef steak. Let the meat come to room temperature for about an hour. Preheat half of your grill to about 450 degrees for 10-15 minutes. Place the steaks on the cool side of your grill and grill for about 7-8 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the meat. When they’ve about reached your desired doneness, remove from the grill and let sit covered for 10 minutes. They will continue to cook during that time. Serve with freshly ground salt to taste. Enjoy!

 

2 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried oregano

1 tsp dried thyme

Fresh ground pepper to taste

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Ready or Not?

For the day is near, even the day of the LORD is near; it will be a day of clouds, a time of doom for the nations. Ezekiel 30:3

 

In the book They Thought They Had More Time by David Jones, Jones describes visions that the Lord has given him about this Day of the Lord. It was portrayed as a scary time—even for Christians. There are 19 exact matches to the Day of the Lord in the New Living Translation, and 21 in the New American Standard Bible. So what is “The Day of the Lord” you might ask? It is the end of time…the day that the Lord Jesus Christ returns to the earth to take His believers to Heaven. Here are a couple of scriptures that refer to that day.

·         Blow a trumpet in Zion, and sound an alarm on My holy mountain! Let all the inhabitants of the land tremble, for the day of the LORD is coming; surely it is near…. Joel 2:1

·         For you yourselves know full well that the day of the Lord will come just like a thief in the night. 1 Thessalonians 5:2

Jesus Himself tells His disciples to “be ready” ….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 24:44. Read all of Matthew 24 to get the big picture of Jesus’ discussion with His disciples after they asked Him about the sign of His coming and the end of the age. They were expecting Him to return during their lifetime. I’ve felt for years that He would return in my lifetime…but only God the Father knows when He will send Jesus back for His bride…the church. In the meantime the Holy Spirit gives us promptings to be ready…to get ready. And what do we need to do to be ready or get ready? Focus on the Lord. Are you right with Him? In His sermon on the mount Jesus talked about right relationships with others, namely a brother, which could be a sibling or a brother in the Lord. Therefore if you are presenting your offering at the altar, and there remember that your brother has something against you, leave your offering there before the altar and go; first be reconciled to your brother, and then come and present your offering. Matthew 5:23-24. So if we are doing what is right…as Jesus taught about the faithful slave in Matthew 24…and we have our relationships in order, then when He returns we shouldn’t be afraid…but we should be excited, like the bride when her bridegroom arrives to take her to their wedding with all their friends, as described in the story of the ten virgins, Matthew 25. Again…we don’t know the hour or the day that the bridegroom (Jesus) will arrive. Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour. Matthew 25:13. One thing we do want to do is to be obedient to Jesus command to…Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age. Matthew 28:19-20. What are you doing to get ready…to be ready?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, not only nudge my heart to remind me daily to “be ready” but show me specifically what I can do to prepare myself and help others to get ready, too.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Who is Jesus to You? Son of God? Creator?

By this we know that we abide in Him and He in us, because He has given us of His Spirit. We have seen and testify that the Father has sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. Whoever confesses that Jesus is the Son of God, God abides in him, and he in God. 1 John 4:13-15

 

I confess and declare that JESUS IS THE SON OF GOD. Who is He to you?  Be careful not to deny Him. Jesus said…But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven. Matthew 10:33. That would be a very serious thing—to be rejected by the Heavenly Father…that could very well end in eternal torment in hell. Think about it.

 

We recently visited the Arches National Park near Moab, Utah. Awesome place. I had heard that it was beautiful and worth the effort that it takes to get there. Beautiful is just not descriptive enough. God is so creative. As I walked on a couple of the trails and we drove through the park, I imagined Jesus saying to His Father…Dad, I really like red rocks—how about I create some here in this isolated part of the world and then the rocks can erode with the wind and rain to make magnificent arches, towering formations and great walls that people can view and marvel at our creation. I can add some green, gray and tan rocks to make it even more striking. Then with about a hundred different desert shrubs and flowers…and some short trees, it will be exquisite. After a few seconds of consideration His Father responded—Go for it, Son! It sounds like a wonderful creation. Maybe You could show your sense of humor by adding some balancing rocks, canyons that flood when it rains and starry night skies. Since You’re putting it out in the middle of nowhere—humans will have to go out of their way to view what You’ve done. Perfect. How will they know that You created it? The Holy Spirit can tell them when they visit. The creation will declare Your mighty work. For ever since the world was created, people have seen the earth and sky. Through everything God made, they can clearly see his invisible qualities--his eternal power and divine nature. So they have no excuse for not knowing God. Romans 1:20 NLT. No excuse. No reason to not declare that Jesus is the Son of God…the Creator of the Universe. Who do you say that Jesus is?

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit—reveal to me, my family, friends, and neighbors the depth of Jesus’ love for us…and for all creation. May we respond by acknowledging that He is the Son of God.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Spiritual Visions

Now, dear brothers and sisters, let us clarify some things about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ and how we will be gathered to meet him. Don't be so easily shaken or alarmed by those who say that the day of the Lord has already begun. Don't believe them, even if they claim to have had a spiritual vision, a revelation, or a letter supposedly from us. 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2 NLT

 

A spiritual vision? Is that from the Holy Spirit? Test it before you believe it.

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world. By this you know the Spirit of God: every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh is from God; and every spirit that does not confess Jesus is not from God; this is the spirit of the antichrist, of which you have heard that it is coming, and now it is already in the world. 1 John 4:1-3.

There is so much hype in the news and in Christian circles now about the Lord’s eminent return. Be careful. Does the person prophesying believe in Jesus as their Savior? That alone does not give them the truth about Jesus. Read your Bible—really study it. Consider Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24, including the following verse concerning His return. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. Matthew 24:36. The Father alone knows. We just have to trust Him. No one knows or can tell us…the rapture will be with the next blood moon…or at the next Feast of Tabernacles. We are told by Jesus to be ready. 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 24:44. What will you be doing when Jesus returns? That thought has got me to thinking that I need to be sure that whatever I’m doing, it is honorable—to do only things that are worthy of the Lord—continually.

 

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, guide my heart, thoughts, mind and words that whatever I think, say and do is honorable in Your sight—continually pleasing to You, my God, my Lord, my Savior.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Under His Wings

How precious is Your lovingkindness, O God! And the children of men take refuge in the shadow of Your wings. Psalm 36:7

 

Can you visualize God with feathers? Some people like to debate whethere God is male or female—but do they see Him as birdlike? There are several allegories in scripture.

·         Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, that hovers over its young, He (God) spread His wings and caught them, He carried them on His pinions. Deuteronomy 32:11.

 

·         He will cover you with His pinions, and under His wings you may seek refuge; His faithfulness is a shield and bulwark. Psalm 91:4.

 

·         Jerusalem, Jerusalem, who kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to her! How often I wanted to gather your children together, the way a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were unwilling. Matthew 23:37.

It will be exciting to see God, face to face when we get to Heaven. But when that day is, only God the Father knows for sure. One thing we can count on, one promise to claim from the verse in Psalm 36 is that we can “take refuge” in God. We can count on him to protect us…to shelter us from the storms of life. That is a tremendous promise. Life isn’t going to be easy just because we trust Jesus as our Savior and rely on the Holy Spirit to guide and direct us. But in those unsure and stormy times we can count on God—Father, Son and Holy Spirit—to gather us to Himself and we can be sure that He loves us. Love is powerful. His lovingkindness is greater than any human love—stronger than any spiritual force that may try to influence us. God’s love is pure, kind, gentle, not self-seeking. Remember the verse from Philippians. Think on it when you are tempted to do wrong, unsure of others motives, or wavering in your faith. Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things. - Philippians 4:8.

 

Prayer ~ Your lovingkindness is all I want in life, Lord. Shower Your blessings on me, my family and my friends as we take refuge in the shadow of Your wings.

 

© 2015 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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