Building a Strong House--A Strong Home

April 16 – Building a Strong House—A Strong Home

A house is built by wisdom and becomes strong through good sense. Proverbs 24:3

You’ve probably heard the song about building your house on the rock.

The Wise Man Built His House

The wise man built his house upon the rock

The wise man built his house upon the rock

The wise man built his house upon the rock

And the rain came tumbling down

                                                                                   

Oh, the rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

And the wise man's house stood firm.

The foolish man built his house upon the sand

The foolish man built his house upon the sand

The foolish man built his house upon the sand

And the rain came tumbling down

Oh, the rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

The rain came down

And the floods came up

And the foolish man's house went "splat!" [clap hands once]

So, build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

Build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

Build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ

And the blessings will come down

Oh, the blessings come down

As your prayers go up

The blessings come down

As your prayers go up

The blessings come down

As your prayer go up

So build your house on the Lord Jesus Christ.

Such wise advice…build your house, your life on the Lord Jesus Christ.

My son and daughter-in-law are building their own home…on a nice hillside. Their life is built on the Lord Jesus Christ and their home has already proven to withstand the strong winds of this area. The contractor who put on the roof used lots of extra nails—so those shingles are sure be there in thirty years. Day by day they put their trust in the Lord to watch over the workers’ safety and give God the glory for providing the materials and energy to do another day’s work. They have sought out wise experts for specific tasks. Only with wisdom will their house be built. Now about eighty more day…or less until they'll be finished. The end is in sight! Lots of hard work behind them…and ahead of them—but they can claim the promise…For I can do everything through Christ, who gives me strength. Philippians 4:13.

Another promise to claim…For I am about to do something new. See, I have already begun! Do you not see it? I will make a pathway through the wilderness. I will create rivers in the dry wasteland.

 Isaiah 43:19. This is a wilderness where we live…the only trees are those that are planted by people…unless you count the Russian Olive trees—that are actually overgrown shrubs. They have a sharp thorn that is part of their water conservation process, but can be a great stickler to someone attempting to climb it or even walk nearby. 

We have a mighty river in our wilderness…the great Columbia River—alongside which we have a pathway for walking, biking and jogging. For me it is a great place to pray as I go…remembering how great and merciful our God is. Healing, renewing, and making things new and strong.

Prayer ~ Lord God, Your praises are new every morning…For you examine us every morning and test us every moment. Job 7:18. Continue to bless and guide my family, giving them wisdom with each decision they make. Keep them all safe and healthy. We exalt You for You are an awesome God and You are our God, our Lord and Savior, and our Teacher and Comforter. Bless You, O my Lord  

Early to bed and early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.      - Benjamin Franklin

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Almost Tax Day

The wise have wealth and luxury, but fools spend whatever they get. Proverbs 21:20.

Like the ant the wise person socks away some money for a rainy day…for the winter…for the future. That old lazy grasshopper that enjoyed every day of summer in The Ant and Grasshopper Aesop’s tale was a beggar when the winter wind and snow arrived. The ant represents the wise person…and the grasshopper represents the fool. When you were growing up did you save every penny you earned or did you blow it all on candy, gum and cheap toys? What do you do as an adult—spend or save? I managed to save some along the way for a rainy day…and it is a blustery day out there today. Ha ha. Seriously I don’t consider myself especially wise, wealthy or living in luxury, but I’m not like the fool and spend everything I get. 

Taxes are taxes. It doesn’t matter if you are wise and save for the tax day…or if you are foolish and spend the whole paycheck—even before it arrives. Taxes still have to be paid. When confronted by the Jewish teachers about paying taxes, Jesus said…"Well then," He said, "give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God." Luke 20:25. Pay what is due to the US Treasury…and give to God what belongs to Him. That time is upon us now—this year it is actually due on April 18^th…so you have the weekend to finish up your taxes.

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to be responsible and wise about the finances that You provide to us. As it is written in Proverbs 30:8…“give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs.” May all that I think, say and do reflect Your wisdom and draw people to the Way the Truth and the Life…to You, Jesus.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

It is time to plan and prepare for Passover. Passover starts at sundown on Friday, April 22^nd. One of the key dishes for that Sedar is Charoseth that represents the mortar for bricks that the Hebrew used as slaves in Egypt. Sweetness for the joy of the redemption that God provided.

Charoseth

2 crisp apples (1 sweet such as Gala and 1 tart such as Granny Smith), peeled and roughly chopped

1 cup walnuts

1 cup raisins

½ cup fresh orange juice

¼ cup kosher red wine or grape juice

2 Tbsp honey

1 tsp finely grated lemon

1 tsp cinnamon, or to taste

       kosher salt

Heat the walnuts on medium heat in a small sauce pan, stirring occasionally, until fragrant, 8 to 10 minutes. Let cool, then roughly chop.

Meanwhile, combine the raisins and orange juice in a small saucepan; simmer over medium-low heat until most of the liquid is absorbed, 5 to 7 minutes. Let cool, then stir in the wine or juice, honey, lemon zest, cinnamon, and about ¼ teaspoon salt.

In a large bowl, combine the apples and walnuts with the raisin mixture and toss to combine. Cover and let sit for at least 4 hours. Serves 8 – makes 4 cups

Serve with matzah bread during the Seder and enjoy it during the meal, if desired.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Unusually Wise

There are four things on earth that are small but unusually wise:

Ants—they aren't strong, but they store up food all summer.

Hyraxes (similar to rabbit)—they aren't powerful, but they make their homes among the rocks.

Locusts—they have no king, but they march in formation.

Lizards—they are easy to catch, but they are found even in kings' palaces. Proverbs 30:24-28

Unusually wise? I never thought of lizards or locusts being wise…and especially not rabbits. Although with their quick start and slow finish, like the rabbit in Aesop’s fable about the Turtle and the Hare, there is a wisdom that keeps them off of busy highways and from being hit by cars there. Do you identify with any of those animals that Solomon mentioned as wise? I like to think of myself like an ant—always working hard—but although I don’t do much food preservation to store up for the winter, we always have plenty to eat. And our freezer has stuff in it from a couple of years ago—eek. We need to eat that and clean out the freezer at least once a year. Not an unusually wise move to have old food taking up space. I’m making that a goal to eat up and clean out our freezer! How about you? Any goals for this spring? It is time to prepare for the Passover that begins on April 22^nd.  We’ve already had Easter—but Passover is a set day on the Hebrew calendar—the 14^th of Nisan at sundown. Time to get the leaven out of our homes…the sin out of our lives. I’ve been impressed as I’ve been reading up on the Passover—the Pesah—that it is a time of seeking forgiveness. It is a time of Redemption, in remembrance of the time when the angel of death passed over the Hebrew homes marked with the blood of the sacrificed lamb and God brought the Israelites out of Egypt. It is this redemption that the Jews look forward to today as they wait for the appearance of their Messiah. Our Messiah is clearly Y’shua—Jesus. He was the Passover Lamb—and as John the Baptist declared—Behold, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world, John 1:29.  He may have appeared weak to some…but Jesus is unusually wise. He is the living, resurrected Afikomen. Praise be to God. Halleluyah!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, thank you for revealing Yourself to us as the Lamb of God—as our risen Savior, our Messiah. You are wise above all. We praise You!

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Obey or Bring Shame

Young people who obey the law are wise; those with wild friends bring shame to their parents. Proverbs 28:7

I recently prayed (April 10^th blog) for my grandchildren to have good friends who make wise choices. Good Christian friends are so important…they were an important impact for my son. He still has close contact with his friends from his high school youth group. My closest friends were also my church friends. Although there were only 44 in my high school graduating class, I went to a very cliquish school—everyone’s closest friends were their church friends. Most of those who didn’t go to church had ties with someone who did go…or they were part of the “wild” ones who did bring shame to their parents. Wisdom gained from church activities and wise mentors is valuable in teen years. Even before the teen years there is an advantage to having your children associate with other law abiding kiddos-those who have respect for their parents and other adults. Respect for God. That is probably the key to obedience at any age. Did you obey your parents and the law or were you part of the “wild” group who brought disgrace to their families? Does a fire burn within your heart--with wisdom or rebellion?

Pray for your children, grandchildren, extended family, friends’ and neighbors’ children that they would make wise choices. We all have the opportunities day by day, moment by moment to make choices that affect our lives—and show respect to God and others.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I humbly submit myself to You, knowing that not all the choices I make are worthy of You. Please give me wisdom—and be gracious to my children, grandchildren, other young people in my neighborhood and within my circle of influence—that we would honor You in all that we think, say and do. No shame—no disgrace—just dignity and Your love that covers a multitude of sins.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Venting Your Anger?

Fools vent their anger, but the wise quietly hold it back. Proverbs 29:11

God Himself has declared that He is slow get mad. The LORD passed in front of Moses, calling out, "Yahweh! The LORD! The God of compassion and mercy! I am slow to anger and filled with unfailing love and faithfulness.” Exodus 34:6. God wants us to be like Him—like His Son, Jesus. There were plenty of times that Jesus could have let loose a violent anger—like when the Pharisee tried to confront or trick Him. Then there was the one time that Jesus cleansed the Temple of the money changers

Another description of God’s anger is found in the book of Numbers. 'The LORD is slow to anger and filled with unfailing love, forgiving every kind of sin and rebellion. But he does not excuse the guilty. He lays the sins of the parents upon their children; the entire family is affected—even children in the third and fourth generations.' Numbers 14:18.

There have been times—even lately—when I’ve vented my anger and then felt foolish and regretted it. What motivated me to get mad? Unmet expectations. It didn’t accomplish anything but make others feel bad, unloved, and made me look like a raving lunatic. So what if my seven-year old grandson cut down the onions and garlic growing in the garden—although those were the only plants already growing this spring—and he’d been told NOT to play in that garden bed. I would have been a better example to him if I’d quietly held back my anger. I learned to yell from my mother and grandmother. So here we have a third generation learning the fine art of venting anger. God does not excuse the guilty—that is me. He doesn’t excuse sin…but gratefully He does forgive.

Paul gave us wise advice when he wrote to the church at Ephesus about anger. And "don't sin by letting anger control you." Don't let the sun go down while you are still angry, for anger gives a foothold to the devil. Ephesians 4:26-27. Are you venting your anger, holding it in or dealing with it?  

Prayer ~ Lord, please forgive me for venting my anger and may my grandson not learn from my mistakes. Help me to deal with any issues in the future in a calm way—with Your grace and mercy.  

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Plant and Harvest

You cannot separate fools from their foolishness, even though you grind them like grain with mortar and pestle. Proverbs 27:22

Fools beware! Our court system is full of fools—people making poor choices. What are they to do? Their choices and actions have gotten them into trouble…and now if proven guilty, they must face the consequences. Receive their justice. Jesus had to go through at least three trials…but He was innocent. He had friends…family…that He was protecting—for whom He was taking the blame. He was no fool, although He may have looked foolish to the Romans, was despised by most of the Pharisees, and became the scape goat for the general Jewish public. Crucify him! They shouted. Were they the fools? The harvest of souls was just beginning.

This is time to plant—spring. As people gathered around Him, Jesus told many stories in the form of parables, such as this one:

"Listen! A farmer went out to plant some seeds. As he scattered them across his field, some seeds fell on a footpath, and the birds came and ate them. Other seeds fell on shallow soil with underlying rock. The seeds sprouted quickly because the soil was shallow. But the plants soon wilted under the hot sun, and since they didn't have deep roots, they died. Other seeds fell among thorns that grew up and choked out the tender plants. Still other seeds fell on fertile soil, and they produced a crop that was thirty, sixty, and even a hundred times as much as had been planted! Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand." Matthew 13:3-9.

Later He explained this parable to His disciples.

The seed that fell on the footpath represents those who hear the message about the Kingdom and don't understand it. Then the evil one comes and snatches away the seed that was planted in their hearts. The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy. But since they don't have deep roots, they don't last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God's word. The seed that fell among the thorns represents those who hear God's word, but all too quickly the message is crowded out by the worries of this life and the lure of wealth, so no fruit is produced. The seed that fell on good soil represents those who truly hear and understand God's word and produce a harvest of thirty, sixty, or even a hundred times as much as had been planted!" Matthew 13:19-23.

Jesus spoke to His disciples about harvesting…harvesting souls. He said to his disciples, "The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields." Matthew 9:37-38. Are you a worker?

Prayer ~ Lord, in the hearts and lives of those around us may we plant the seed of the truth of the Gospel—of You as our risen savior. As the harvest continues may all of our families, friends and neighbors be included as those who truly hear, understand, and apply Your word to their lives.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Are You Making Wise Choices?

There is more hope for fools than for people who think they are wise. Proverbs 26:12

Think you are wise? God gives wisdom to those He wants when He wants…and to those who ask for it from Him. But does that wisdom really make them “wise”? Wisdom can be a short lived. I think that life is all about choices. Day by day, moment by moment…choices. Choices about how we think, act, feel…say and do. Our lives are shaped by our choices. I am humbled by this thought. The could have, would have, should have choices were turning points in my life. What lies ahead? My choices now will make my future whatever it will be. Will my choices be wise? Wise choices in a dark world. Is there more hope for a fool? What sorrow for those who are wise in their own eyes and think themselves so clever. Isaiah 5:21.

Prayer ~ Lord, in Your mercy, give me wisdom to make good choices…and give my children and grandchild insight into their thoughts, words and actions that they would make wise choices. Especially help my grandchildren to have good friends, who also make wise choices. Bless all these dear children, Lord.

Please also be with dear friends who are struggling with health issues…may Your healing hand be on them—giving them renewed health, peace and strength. May they feel Your presence and know that they are loved.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

No Snow in Summer

Honor is no more associated with fools than snow with summer or rain with harvest. Proverbs 26:1 

Honor. To have integrity in one’s beliefs or to have respect for another. Honor is sought after by all kinds of people—they want to be honored.  That may make them look like a fool…and April Fool’s is past—so they’re the biggest fool at last. Honor just doesn’t suit those who seek it.  Honor is bestowed on those who humble themselves before the Lord and serve others. Honor is given to those who serve and die…that others may live. What does honor have to do with wisdom? It is the wise ones who are honored. No snow in summer—but have you been on a high mountain, like Mt. Rainier, in the summer…covered with snow. Years ago there were even snow caves that were so refreshing to walk into on hot days. I remember basking in the coolness after a hot hike from Paradise. Snow in summer—yes. But no honor for fools.

Prayer ~ Lord, give us wisdom that we would honor You. Honor You in all that we think, say and do. Let us not be known as fools—but as ones of pure white snow—washed clean by the blood of Jesus.

Wisdom Quote: The purpose of life is not to be happy. It is to be useful, to be honorable, to be compassionate, to have it make some difference that you have lived and lived well.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Don’t Waste Your Breath

Don't waste your breath on fools, for they will despise the wisest advice. Proverbs 23:9

Have you ever loathed getting good advice…wise advice…from someone? Sometimes it is kind of hard to take advice from someone—sort of humbling or maybe even humiliating if done in front of others. But did you feel like you’d been foolish?   Likewise, have you ever tried to give someone what you considered wise advice—maybe even shared some relevant scripture—and they just refused to listen? Solomon is telling us here not to waste our breath on such foolish people. Your advice wasn’t foolish—but the ears that it was falling on were foolish.

When I think about breath, I think of the breath of God giving Adam life. Then the LORD God formed the man from the dust of the ground. He breathed the breath of life into the man's nostrils, and the man became a living person. Genesis 2:7. I’m glad that God didn’t consider His breath wasteful when it came to giving humans life—I think that was the beginning of spiritual life. All the other animals God created breathed without God’s breath of life…so the human life is separate, unique and of a spiritual dimension since we are created in God’s image (Genesis 1:26). Is the breath you might “waste” on fools of a spiritual nature? It seems that fools are those who don’t want anything to do with spiritual advice. Pray for them.

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father, we are in awe of Your plan for creation, Your breath of life, and Your plan for a future that we will have with You…if we believe in Your Son as our savior…our Messiah. Give wisdom and insight to all who read this so that they would believe and then share this wisdom with others. May their eyes, ears and hearts be opened to hearing and understanding You, dear God. Heaven will be filled with Your gloriously wise believers—there won’t be any fools among them.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Spring weather brings changes in the air pressure that cause those with arthritis—inflamed joints—to suffer pain. Here’s a little smoothie drink that just might help. It is tasty enough for everyone. Healthy, too.

Pineapple Smoothie

½ large fresh pineapple, including the core

2 celery stalks, chopped

2 Tbsp celeric (celery root), chopped

1 inch piece of fresh ginger root, peeled and grated or finely chopped

Place all the ingredients into a blender and blend until smooth. You may want to add a small amount of water, or you can eat it with a spoon instead of drinking it. For increased immune benefit add a handful of goji berries, soaked, to the blender.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Avoid Fighting

Avoiding a fight is a mark of honor; only fools insist on quarreling. Proverbs 20:3

People quarrel. Cities and states disagree. Nations have disputes—they quarrel. I remember fighting with my sister and brothers. We fought about whose turn it was to do the dishes, feed the dog, take out the garbage or some other chore around the house…but we somehow remained friends. Some people—the fools in this world—just pick a fight just to interact—to make themselves look good. Be careful to avoid fighting. Honor God and you will be honored. Seems pretty simple and straightforward.

Prayer ~ Lord God, open our eyes to see that with Your wisdom we can avoid fighting. We don’t want to be fools who insist on quarreling.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Trust? Yourself or the Lord?

Those who trust their own insight are foolish, but anyone who walks in wisdom is safe. Proverbs 28:26.

Trust…to be secure—to feel safe—confident.

The Israelites trusted themselves and look where it got them.

"Flee, save your lives, that you may be like a juniper in the wilderness. For because of your trust in your own achievements and treasures, even you yourself will be captured; and Chemosh will go off into exile together with his priests and his princes. Jeremiah 48:6-7 NASB

The Bible gives us lots of direction to “trust”—especially to trust in the Lord.

Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Proverbs 3:5.

But those who trust in the LORD will find new strength. They will soar high on wings like eagles. They will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

Those who listen to instruction will prosper; those who trust the LORD will be joyful. Proverbs 16:20.

I am teaching you today—yes, you—so you will trust in the LORD. Proverbs 22:19

Do you have confidence in your own ideas and insights—or do you seek God’s wisdom and feel secure living according to His will and His way?

Prayer ~ Lord, I trust You, Your perfect will and wisdom. Thank you for guiding my life.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Don't Tie Up That Rock

Honoring a fool is as foolish as tying a stone to a slingshot. Proverbs 26:8

What a visual picture. A kid with a rock tied to his slingshot. What an ugly mess that will be when he tries to send that rock into action. Here it comes back to him. Ugh! Imagine what would have happened to David if he had done such a stupid thing. Goliath would have killed him and all the Israelites in a heartbeat. History would have been changed. Any fool who is honored is like that stone…splat. Not a pretty sight.

Prayer ~ Lord, help me to honor You first always in my life—and not some fool…or myself.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Answer Fools?

Be sure to answer the foolish arguments of fools, or they will become wise in their own estimation. Proverbs 26:5.

Solomon just said to not get drawn into foolish arguments, Proverbs 26:4. Now he wrote that we need to answer the fool’s foolish argument so that they don’t feel like they are wise. In another translation these verses may explain this situation in a better way.

Do not answer a fool according to his folly, or you will also be like him. Answer a fool as his folly deserves, that he not be wise in his own eyes. Proverbs 26:4-5 NASB

There it is. Tell it like is. Let that fool know—but once again, don’t get drawn into his foolish argument. Stick to the facts. Listen. That is the key. Say it with a pleasant look on your face.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, guide me as I speak to answer a foolish argument of fools. May we truly listen to each other. I see that as the key to any conversation. Listen. You listened to the woman at the well and it changed her life. May my listening show Your love and concern…and bring others to You.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Foolish Arguments

Don't answer the foolish arguments of fools, or you will become as foolish as they are. Proverbs 26:4.

Know-it-all fools will usually try to drag you into an argument to prove that they are right…they feel they are always right. It’s the sign of a fool. Do you see it invisibly written across their forehead, I’M ALWAYS RIGHT—I’M A FOOL? But we know that no one besides God is ALWAYS right. Usually what difference does it make anyway? Solomon had wise advice for us…don’t get involved with worthless foolish arguments—unless you want to become a fool. Who wants that? So what do you do?

Best thing is not to associate with those fools—but if you can’t avoid them, then be honest that whatever it is that they want to argue about (politics, religion, sensuality or whatever), you do NOT want to discuss. You can always try to steer the conversation to another topic, but it is likely that the fool will still want to dominate that topic. Ugh. Is there anything they aren’t a know-it-all about? Do they know God and His Word? Don’t be a fool about arguing about things you don’t know anything about. Maybe you can find a topic in which they are an expert—and then let them rant on. You’ll only have to listen…not argue.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I want to honor you in all I think, do and say. I don’t want to argue with You…or with anyone. I like peace—Your peace.

What sorrow awaits those who argue with their Creator. Does a clay pot argue with its maker? Does the clay dispute with the one who shapes it, saying, 'Stop, you're doing it wrong!' Does the pot exclaim, 'How clumsy can you be?' Isaiah 45:9.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Be Wise…Listen

Spouting off before listening to the facts is both shameful and foolish. Proverbs 18:13.

Have you ever reached the end of your rope and just let loose your mind and your tongue…before listening to the other person? I have. Ugh! For me it’s one of those open mouth insert foot moments. My Irish temper, which the Holy Spirit has mostly gotten control of, will occasionally burst forth with a rant that even as the word pour forth from my mouth I know I’ll regret. I’m ashamed to admit that with one of my grandsons that happens occasionally. I’ve been praying for control of my tongue…and my emotions—and the Holy Spirit has been good to me. I’ve seen real progress in not losing my temper—and also not just giving in to my grandson’s demands. That means positive growth in our relationship, too. As an adult around a strong willed child, it is important to not only choose your battles, but to be an example in relying on the Holy Spirit. Since my grandson already has a respect for God it helps him to know that we need to listen to God and each other…and it is God who has the right answers. I certainly don’t want to look foolish in front of my grandkiddos—but when a water fight began a couple of days ago, I didn’t let my anger get the best of me. We had a fair fight and both got a little wet. It was OK—it was already over 70 degrees outside. What will the summer bring when the temperature soars to over 100? We’ve already planned to have a fair water fight again—when we’ve both got water pump guns and an ample supply of clean water. No muddy street water in this next showdown—and no spouting off. We’ll listen to each other. No means No and Yes means Yes. Ready, set, go!

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, help me to listen to others around me and not to lose my temper when my expectations aren’t met or when I’m offended. I don’t want to appear to be a fool with angry words spewing forth from my mouth. Let me hear not only the words of the others, but see how they feel in their heart. Let each of us speak as You taught during Your sermon on the mount…Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one. Matthew 5:37. May all that I do and say not bring You shame, but glory and honor.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Foolish or Wise?

Wise people think before they act; fools don't—and even brag about their foolishness. Proverbs 13:16

April Fool’s Day! Don’t be a fool…think before you act. Isn’t that just what we try to teach our children and grandchildren? Think. And then…think again. Peter wrote about some foolish men in Israel.

But there were also false prophets in Israel, just as there will be false teachers among you. They will cleverly teach destructive heresies and even deny the Master who bought them. In this way, they will bring sudden destruction on themselves. Many will follow their evil teaching and shameful immorality. And because of these teachers, the way of truth will be slandered. ... These false teachers are like unthinking animals, creatures of instinct, born to be caught and destroyed. They scoff at things they do not understand, and like animals, they will be destroyed. ... These people are as useless as dried-up springs or as mist blown away by the wind. They are doomed to blackest darkness. They brag about themselves with empty, foolish boasting. With an appeal to twisted sexual desires, they lure back into sin those who have barely escaped from a lifestyle of deception. They promise freedom, but they themselves are slaves of sin and corruption. For you are a slave to whatever controls you. 2 Peter 2:1-2, 12, 17-19

You are a slave to whatever controls you…to whoever or whatever you choose to obey.

Don't you realize that you become the slave of whatever you choose to obey? You can be a slave to sin, which leads to death, or you can choose to obey God, which leads to righteous living. Romans 6:16.

We all have a choices. Who do you choose to obey? God? Yourself? Someone or something else?

Don’t be a fool in your choices.

Prayer ~ Lord, give us wisdom as we think, act and make choices day by day…moment by moment. May our actions reflect your wisdom and not show any foolishness.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

A while back…like twenty years ago while camping with family someone was going to toss an apple cider vinegar book into the fire. But someone else grabbed it and began reading the apple cider vinegar home remedies out loud. We all laughed so hard! It became sort of a tradition to read a few apple cider vinegar remedies around the campfire every year! The book is still hanging around here…somewhere…with the cover ripped off. That is the only part that made it into the fire.

The Bible mentions vinegar several times.

Moses was told by God how people should act if they wanted to set themselves apart for service to God.

Give the following instructions to the people of Israel. "If any of the people, either men or women, take the special vow of a Nazirite, setting themselves apart to the LORD in a special way, they must give up wine and other alcoholic drinks. They must not use vinegar made from wine or from other alcoholic drinks, they must not drink fresh grape juice, and they must not eat grapes or raisins." Numbers 6:2-3.

The Good Samaritan used wine or vinegar on the wounds of the beaten man he encountered on the road to Jericho.

In Psalms it was predicted several hundred years before His crucifixion that Jesus would be offered vinegar or sour wine on the cross…and that is what happened as recorded in Matthew 27, Mark 15, Luke 23, as well as in John 19.

They also gave me gall for my food and for my thirst they gave me vinegar to drink. Psalm 69:21 NASB

Jesus knew that His mission was now finished, and to fulfill Scripture He said, "I am thirsty." A jar of sour wine was sitting there, so they soaked a sponge in it, put it on a hyssop branch, and held it up to His lips. John 19:28-29. The sour wine was a form of vinegar.

The use of vinegar for medicinal purposes was recorded as early as 400 BCE by Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine, who used germ killing vinegar to treat his patients. It is an old folk remedy for health issues ranging from digestive problems to planters warts.

Here’s a salad that is sure to cure whatever is ailing you.

Arugula Salad with Vinegar and Mint Dressing

1 fennel bulb, finely shredded

1 cup arugula leaves

A few cherry tomatoes

5-6 slices of cucumber

1 cup of mint leaves, loosely measured

4 Tbsp olive oil

1 Tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar

Himalayan salt

Combine the fennel, arugula, tomatoes and cucumbers in a bowl.

In a blender, combine the mint, olive oil and apple cider vinegar with a pinch of freshly ground Himalayan salt and blend for about 30 seconds to prepare the dressing. Serve the salad with the dressing.

With this combination of ingredients enjoy a cleansing of your liver and improvement of your entire digestive system. 

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Open Mouth, Insert Foot

Even fools are thought wise when they keep silent; with their mouths shut, they seem intelligent. Proverbs 17:28

Like Mark Twain said… It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt. Consider the writings of the minor prophet, Amos, who warned the Israelites once again not to worship the pagan gods, but to return to worshiping the one true God. Then he wrote:

So those who are smart keep their mouths shut, for it is an evil time. Do what is good and run from evil so that you may live! Then the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will be your helper, just as you have claimed. Hate evil and love what is good; turn your courts into true halls of justice. Perhaps even yet the LORD God of Heaven's Armies will have mercy on the remnant of his people. Therefore, this is what the Lord, the LORD God of Heaven's Armies, says: "There will be crying in all the public squares and mourning in every street. Call for the farmers to weep with you, and summon professional mourners to wail.” Amos 5:13-16.

Good advice—keep your mouth shut. I’ve heard some additional wise words…keep your eyes and ears open and your mouth shut. It is far better to observe and listen before speaking. It goes along with that idiom of putting your foot in your mouth. Oops. That is saying the wrong thing at the wrong time. How very embarrassing. Israel needed to listen to this prophet. God’s army of angels will have mercy on His chosen ones—Israel. Perhaps we all need to listen to this prophet’s advice.

I think I’ll just keep my mouth closed. I don’t offend others that way—and then those around me who are hard of hearing won’t have to ask me what I just said…and I won’t have to yell a response to them. Yelling seems to signify anger…and I’m not mad…or foolish. Most people’s actions speak louder than their words—so hopefully others see Jesus in the way I live. Do those around you see Jesus in you?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, may I keep my eyes and ears open—so that I listen and observe—and keep my mouth shut. I want to honor You in all that I think, do and say…and with my mouth closed I won’t be putting my foot in it.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Are You Known for Your Understanding?

The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive. Proverbs 16:21

Wise people, in applying their wisdom and knowledge, get understanding…even from just listening and observing. They respond with pleasant words. Pleasant—that is an interesting word. Like congenial, pleasing or agreeable. A friend of mine, Rebecca, once told me that her Grandmother encouraged her to always keep a pleasant look on her face. Her family was involved in music ministry so she was often on stage in front of a lot of people. Having a pleasant look on her face elicited a good response from the audience. Her Grandmother gave her wise advice—and those words with the love behind them were very persuasive. Rebecca has a permanent happy look—always pleasant—on her face.  I have found if I smile, my whole outlook changes—my attitude even gains a positive countenance. Rebecca’s Grandmother’s advice is good for me, too. Pleasant expressions and words are good. They may even reflect wisdom and understanding.

Are you known for your understanding? Do you use pleasant words? Do you have a pleasant look on your face right now?

Prayer ~ Dear Lord, help me to keep a pleasant look on my face—no wisdom in a scowl. Please allow me to apply Your wisdom to the knowledge I gain day by day so that I grow in understanding and have spiritual discernment. A pleasant look and pleasing words can only come through Your grace and love. I praise You for caring about me, my family and friends, and neighbors. Caring enough to not only die for us…but be raised from the dead that we would have hope—and eternal life.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Are You Jabbering?

The lips of the wise give good advice; the heart of a fool has none to give. Proverbs 15:7

Be careful with whom you associate. The godly give good advice to their friends; the wicked lead them astray. Proverbs 12:26. Likewise…Walk with the wise and become wise; associate with fools and get in trouble. Proverbs 13:20. Once again this wisdom shows us that we become like those around us—those with whom we most closely associate. Solomon had more wise advice about friends, associates and speaking.

Don't befriend angry people or associate with hot-tempered people…. Proverbs 22:24

My child, fear the LORD and the king. Don't associate with rebels…. Proverbs 24:2

When I wrote to you before, I told you not to associate with people who indulge in sexual sin. ... I meant that you are not to associate with anyone who claims to be a believer yet indulges in sexual sin, or is greedy, or worships idols, or is abusive, or is a drunkard, or cheats people. Don't even eat with such people. 1 Corinthians 5:9, 11.

Too much activity gives you restless dreams; too many words make you a fool. Ecclesiastes 5:3.

Prayer ~ Dear Lord God, guard my mouth that I would not only speak words that would edify You, but that I would give good advice to those around me…wherever I am… using a limited amount of words so that others hear Your message through me, not just hear an endless jabbering of meaningless words.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Wise Speak Wisely

From a wise mind comes wise speech; the words of the wise are persuasive. Proverbs 16:23

Whatever is put into our minds is what comes out. Input=output.

No one can know a person's thoughts except that person's own spirit, and no one can know God's thoughts except God's own Spirit. And we have received God's Spirit (not the world's spirit), so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. When we tell you these things, we do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit's words to explain spiritual truths. 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 2:11-14.

Wisdom speaks from the Lord…to those who are listening…and that is what those who are listening are going to speak. Input…output. We can’t speak about something that we don’t know about—without looking like a total fool. We need to be careful about what we say. We need to be persuasive to lead others to the Lord.

As I’m writing this post I’m watching a movie—Ratatouille—with a couple of my grandkiddos. Inspiring food movie. It’s not often that I watch animated flix—but this one is really good. Along with the scripture today it reminds me..,It's not what goes into your mouth that defiles you; you are defiled by the words that come out of your mouth." Matthew 15:11.

We want to honor the Lord with what we think, do and say. Do wise words come out of your mouth…are those wise words persuasive?  

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus…Your wise words on the cross…after Your resurrection…and especially during Your years of ministry are persuasive for salvation. Healing those physically and emotionally or spiritually sick by just saying a word, “forgiven,” is awesome. One wise word—forgiven. Forgive us, Lord, for not relying on You more…for not listening more closely to Your words of wisdom and applying them to our lives.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Easter - Resurrection Sunday...Leave the Grave Behind

The path of life leads upward for the wise; they leave the grave behind.  Proverbs 15:24

What wise advice. I’ve known people who idolize their dead relatives—spending exorbitant amounts of money on cemetery plots, elaborate caskets, fancy headstones and flowers. Then they spend hours of their time visiting the cemetery—some people of other faiths even share meals with the dead on a regular basis. When we lived in Okinawa, there were Okinawans who would bring food daily…or with some families on a weekly basis, to their ancestors’ grave site. Such devotion. It was like having a family picnic with half of the family in a burial tomb. Seemed weird to us. We might take flowers to our families’ graves—but not food. Leave the grave behind. Even Jesus had advice about the death and burial… He said to another person, "Come, follow me." The man agreed, but he said, "Lord, first let me return home and bury my father." But Jesus told him, "Let the spiritually dead bury their own dead! Your duty is to go and preach about the Kingdom of God." Luke 9:59-60.

Be wise. Follow Jesus’ path of life. Seek first His Kingdom.  

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus—Thank You again for Your obedience in going to the cross—carrying my sin and grief—along with the weight of the world’s sin. What a burden—a heaviness—to endure. So that I may walk along Your way with wisdom I once again ask...Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. Psalm 139:23-24.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Can a Wise Person Deal with an Angry Person?

The anger of the king is a deadly threat; the wise will try to appease it. Proverbs 16:14

Daniel faced an angry King Nebuchadnezzar who had dream that his own wise men couldn’t figure out. With wisdom from God Daniel was able to correctly interpret the dream—thus facing favor from the king and God…I thank and praise you, God of my ancestors, for you have given me wisdom and strength. You have told me what we asked of you and revealed to us what the king demanded. Daniel 2:23. We don’t have a king to face in our country—but who is king of your household or workplace? Are there times when he/she is angry? What do you do to appease that anger? Prayer is the best place to start. Continuing to seek wisdom is always admirable.

Today commemorates the Saturday after Jesus was buried. He lay in the grave…in the earth.

The Empty Tomb - Jerusalem

Interestingly Paul wrote to the Ephesians…"He ascended," what does it mean except that He also had descended into the lower parts of the earth? He who descended is Himself also He who ascended far above all the heavens, so that He might fill all things. Ephesians 4:9-10 NASB. As He lay in the tomb, Jesus’ disciples and other followers could do nothing—it was their Sabbath. In accordance with the Commandments they were not to work (Exodus 20:10), so they had prepared the burial spices on Friday after the burial. What a day of mourning that must have been for them all. They probably felt abandoned, deeply sad and hopeless. Have you ever had a close friend or relative die without hope? Those of us who know Jesus as our Lord and Savior have hope—hope for our own resurrection one day—and that as Jesus promised the thief on the cross, we will one day be with Him in Paradise. And Jesus replied, "I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43. Of course, that could also read…I assure you today, you will be with me in Paradise. Where was that comma--of course there probably wasn't one in the original text. As it was translated…it may be interpreted as…today you will be with me in Heaven…or I’m telling you today, that you will be with me in Heaven (or Paradise--when that time comes).  Which do you think it is? Today’s promise…or a pledge today of promise to be fulfilled?

Prayer ~ Dear Jesus—thank you for all that You gave up…and especially for all that You took on Yourself on that cross. You gave up an earthly life with friends and family…and You bore the sins—the eternal grief—of all humanity on that cross. Each time I’ve had an unkind thought, a bad attitude, or a wrongful comment or hurtful word or action, I’ve added to Your grief—Your burden. Please forgive me—cleanse me from all unrighteousness—and lead me in the path of righteousness—for Your name sake.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Sin on the Cross

Good Friday

Wealth is a crown for the wise; the effort of fools yields only foolishness. Proverbs 14:24

A crown was placed on Christ’s head before He was crucified. A crown of thorns—shoved on His head—causing blood to trickle down His face. The wealth of spiritual knowledge—the source of all wisdom, crowned King of the Jews. Striped of His dignity—yet the most dignified, humble and loving man ever to live. Beaten and spat upon by fools…not realizing how foolish their actions were. Yet He had to go to the cross. He had to bear the sin of the world. His Father had a plan that saves even you and me. Jesus became the sacrificial lamb for your sin…for my sin. Without His sacrifice there would be no one in heaven one day. The purpose of mankind—fellowship with God—would never actually happen. As much as we wish that Jesus could have been spared—it was not to be. We can only believe, repent, and be grateful. Do you see your sin on that cross with Jesus?

Prayer ~ Heavenly Father—how it must have hurt You to allow Your Son to take our place on that cross. Thank You for Your plan of salvation—and Thank You Jesus for Your obedience. Forgive our sin. Guide us and bless us as we seek to please You.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Good Friday is a day of fasting. How can anyone eat when our Savior and our Friend is hanging on a cross—dying for our sins. Remember Christ’s sacrifice as you take the bread and wine or juice in the Sacrament of Communion.

As they were eating, Jesus took some bread and blessed it. Then He broke it in pieces and gave it to the disciples, saying, "Take this and eat it, for this is my body." And He took a cup of wine and gave thanks to God for it. He gave it to them and said, "Each of you drink from it, for this is my blood, which confirms the covenant between God and his people. It is poured out as a sacrifice to forgive the sins of many." Matthew 26:26-28

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

All scripture quoted from the New Living Translation (NLT)

unless otherwise noted.

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

Confidence in Yourself or God?

The wise are cautious and avoid danger; fools plunge ahead with reckless confidence. Proverbs 14:16

Avoid danger. Look around you and be cautious. Be careful about being too self-confident. Jesus told a story about two men praying at the Temple—one was a Pharisee with great self-righteous confidence, the other a tax collector, who considered himself a sinner. The Pharisee prayed about how good he was and how horrible the tax collector was. Then Jesus told how the tax collector repented and confessed that he was a sinner. Jesus concluded the story with…I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted. Luke 18:14. The tax collector was wise in his humble view of himself, whereas the Pharisee was foolish in his inflated self-righteousness.  

Paul and Timothy wrote to the people in the church at Corinth with this message about not depending on their own wisdom. We can say with confidence and a clear conscience that we have lived with a God-given holiness and sincerity in all our dealings. We have depended on God's grace, not on our own human wisdom. That is how we have conducted ourselves before the world, and especially toward you. 2 Corinthians 1:12. That way of living—holiness—is sure to please God. That is what my goal in life is…to live in a way that pleases God. By serving Him, I am serving others, too. By serving others, I am serving Him. Not in a reckless way—but in a way that has purpose. Humble, cautious and confident in God.

It was on this day…the Thursday of Holy Week…at the beginning of the Passover, Jesus had His last meal with His disciples in an upper room of the home of one of His followers. As they gathered around the table together Jesus told them of the sacrifice that He was going to make. During that meal He gave them bread and wine and asked them to remember Him. See Luke 22:7-20. When we take the Sacrament of Communion, we honor Christ and what He did for us. He was the sacrificial lamb of the Passover. He willing gave His life for our sin. One day we, as believers, will humbly stand before Him as He intercedes for us with the Heavenly Father. Christ has washed us white as snow—purified us so that we can stand in the Father’s presence.

Will you be among the believers standing with Christ in Heaven?

Prayer ~ Jesus, my Lord and Savior, even now I humbly stand before You—praising You for the sacrifice You made. Thank You for the wisdom that You have graciously given me that I can be cautious and avoid dangers that so often come upon us humans as we go through life. Fill my life with holiness so that I may honor You in all that I think, say and do.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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

Build Your Home on The Rock

A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands. Proverbs 14:1

Wisdom is a valuable commodity—one that cannot be purchased with money. Building a house takes a lot of planning and calculations. Solomon wrote…Do your planning and prepare your fields before building your house. Proverbs 24:27. Jesus taught those wanting to follow Him that they needed to count the cost of their choice. He compared it to building a building. But don't begin until you count the cost. For who would begin construction of a building without first calculating the cost to see if there is enough money to finish it? Otherwise, you might complete only the foundation before running out of money, and then everyone would laugh at you. They would say, 'There's the person who started that building and couldn't afford to finish it!' Luke 14:28-30. Jesus also said…Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Matthew 7:24.

Building a new home takes planning and consideration of so many details—from the foundation,

framing, windows, HVAC, electrical and plumbing to the color of the roofing material, the cabinets, flooring, and finally the paint. So many details. In life we must consider our “home” with God and the detail involved in building and maintaining that home—in our heart. Are you tearing your house down by ignoring God’s plan for your life…and abandoning or ignoring His will and His ways? Do you need to sweep out a few cobwebs? How about painting on a cheerful attitude? These last few days before Resurrection Sunday—Easter—give us an opportunity to put our life in order and reflect once again on what Christ has done for us.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, forgive my lazy attitude as I once again make improvements in my home for You in my heart—a home build on a solid rock. You are the rock of my salvation. I praise You and thank you for Your obedience to God the Father and your sacrifice on the cross for my sin.

© 2016 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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