Don't Be Deceived

Stop deceiving yourselves. If you think you are wise by this world's standards, you need to become a fool to be truly wise. For the wisdom of this world is foolishness to God. As the Scriptures say, "He traps the wise in the snare of their own cleverness." 1 Corinthians 3:18-19

As Solomon wrote in Proverbs...The instruction of the wise is like a life-giving fountain; those who accept it avoid the snares of death.  Proverbs 13:14 (NLT).  Good advice. Avoid the snares of death. We're all going to die sometime but there can be a lot of misery associated with death--so why unwisely hurry it!  No smoking, fast driving, or fatty meals for me. Like Jesus taught--everything in moderation, but focus on Him--on our Heavenly Father. Amazing love from the Father. Good advice. Don't be deceived. 

And as we live in God, our love grows more perfect. So we  not be afraid on the day of judgment, but we can face him with confidence because we live like Jesus here in this world.  Such love has no fear, because perfect love expels all fear. If we are afraid, it is for fear of punishment, and this shows that we have not fully experienced his perfect love. We love each other because he loved us first.

If someone says, "I love God," but hates a Christian brother or sister, that person is a liar; for if we don't love people we can see, how can we love God, whom we cannot see?

And he has given us this command: Those who love God must also love their Christian brothers and sisters. 1 John 4:17-21 Don't be deceived. Are you listening to God's advice?

Prayer ~ Dear God, may our love grow and we not be deceived. No hate and no fear when we embrace your love.

Lord-please give Liberty a healing touch. Take away her fever and resolve the cause of it. May she wake this morning with renewed strength and her usual perky smile.

© 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.

You are the Temple of God

Do you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you? God will destroy anyone who destroys this temple. For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple. 1 Corinthians 3:16-17

The Temple built by Solomon in Jerusalem was the earthly house of God. His meeting place with mankind. The inner room of the Temple contained the Holy of Holies--with the Ark of the Covenant. 

Then the priests brought the ark of the covenant of the LORD to its place, into the inner sanctuary of the house, to the holy of holies, under the wings of the cherubim. 2 Chronicles 5:7.

 

Only one priest actually met with God once a year in that Holy place. That priest had to be pure and holy--and then just to be sure a gold rope was tied around his leg so that if God found him unholy and he died, then he could be pulled out. Holiness is unto the Lord. Honor the LORD for the glory of his name. Worship the LORD in the splendor of his holiness. Psalm 29:2. 

Do not bring shame on my holy name, for I will display my holiness among the people of Israel. I am the LORD who makes you holy. Leviticus 22:32

Be holy. This is what the Lord requires of us. He makes us holy--but it is our choice--our free will to chose to be holy. God is a gentleman. He won't force us to do anything, although this scripture passage tells us that God will destroy anyone who destroys His temple. We are His temple How do you choose to respond to His offer of Holiness?

Prayer ~ Lord God, You are awesome and holy. Cleanse me and make me pure. Fill me with your holiness. 

© 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

United - June 21

God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; He made us pure and holy, and He freed us from sin. 1 Corinthians 1:30

WoW!  God has been so generous with us--for our benefit! Christ has done so much for us. We are so unworthy--but as God's adopted children, we are worthy--we are valued. Think about that…you are worthy…you are loved beyond belief!

Prayer ~ Lord God, I am in awe of You. I am but a grain of sand on a huge beach--and yet you see me as worth something--something beyond comprehension. Your love. Thank 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.

“Fame”

Remember, dear brothers and sisters, that few of you were wise in the world's eyes or powerful or wealthy when God called you. Instead, God chose things the world considers foolish in order to shame those who think they are wise. And He chose things that are powerless to shame those who are powerful. 1 Corinthians 1:26-27

Mostly we’re just nobodies. A few of us will have our fifteen minutes of fame, like Andy Warhol—but it is not likely that it will be world-wide fame—maybe just in our community or our neighborhood—or within our family. My “fame” amounts to about two seconds when my name was read when I got my Master’s Degree (Environmental Science) and about two minutes of when I won the Volunteer of the Year Award in an organization to which I belonged. Not even close to 15 minutes of fame. How many minutes of “fame” have you experienced? God called us anyway—famous or not.

Jesus had several hours of “fame” as He died on the cross. People—both followers and scorners—came to see Him die. Crucifixion was a painful, agonizing, and humiliating death—but it seems that people came to gawk anyway. Their reaction is recorded in the Gospel of Luke. And when all the crowd that came to see the crucifixion saw what had happened, they went home in deep sorrow. Luke 23:48. Jesus appeared to be “powerless” hanging there on the cross. He could have called on angels to rescue Him—but He didn’t. He obediently became the sacrifice that His Father…our Heavenly Father…required for the sin of mankind. Jesus real fame was probably in the power of His resurrection. Without being raised from the dead His death would have only been a sorrowful time to His followers—but His resurrection is unique to the Christian religion. No other religious leader has been resurrected. Jesus is God—as well as being the Son of God, our Redeemer, Savior, Creator, Healer, Teacher, and friend. One day He will be instantaneously famous around the world when He comes again—to redeem His chosen ones.

BEHOLD, HE IS COMING WITH THE CLOUDS, and every eye will see Him, even those who pierced Him; and all the tribes of the earth will mourn over Him. So it is to be. Amen. Revelation 1:7 NASB  

Therefore, God elevated Him to the place of highest honor and gave Him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11.

Keep your eyes open. Are you ready to bow your knee—and your heart—confessing that Jesus Christ IS LORD!?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, purify our hearts, souls and minds that we would be pure, like You are pure. That we would live our days in praise and thanksgiving to You—for being the sacrifice for our sin. We rejoice with You, in You and for You. You alone are worthy of our praise. Glory be to the Father, to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.

© 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.

God Has a Plan

But to those called by God to salvation, both Jews and Gentiles, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God. This foolish plan of God is wiser than the wisest of human plans, and God's weakness is stronger than the greatest of human strength. 1 Corinthians 1:24-25

Jesus IS the wisdom of God. How wise is that? The ultimate in wisdom—the supreme intelligence. He is the source of wisdom. Jesus created the heavens, the earth, and all that is within them. He has power and wisdom above anything we can imagine. What a plan that God had—such creative

diversity throughout the world…like the languages that keep us separated, as began at the Tower of Babel. Do you see wisdom in God’s creation?

The worldly wisdom is just the opposite of God’s wisdom—the antithesis of the wisdom of God. (See Luke 11:49.) Peter mentioned God’s plan when he spoke to hundreds of people at Pentecost, just after Jesus ascension.

"Men of Israel, listen to these words: Jesus the Nazarene, a man attested to you by God with miracles and wonders and signs which God performed through Him in your midst, just as you yourselves know—this Man, delivered over by the predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God, you nailed to a cross by the hands of godless men and put Him to death. But God raised Him up again, putting an end to the agony of death, since it was impossible for Him to be held in its power. " Acts 2:22-24 NASB.

God has a plan…for you. Now all glory to God, who is able to make you strong, just as my Good News says. This message about Jesus Christ has revealed his plan for you Gentiles, a plan kept secret from the beginning of time. But now as the prophets foretold and as the eternal God has commanded, this message is made known to all Gentiles everywhere, so that they too might believe and obey him. Romans 16:25-26

Prayer ~ Dear God…I think the key is OBEDIENCE. Jesus was obedient…and that is how I should life, too. A life of obedience. I praise You for revealing that to me.

Happy Father's Day!
Honor your father and mother...Exodus 20:12.

Happy Anniversary to Rella & Ron!

Years go by quickly--you are not forgotten. Blessings~

© 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.

Think Again

Portuguese Cross

Since God in His wisdom saw to it that the world would never know Him through human wisdom, He has used our foolish preaching to save those who believe. It is foolish to the Jews, who ask for signs from heaven. And it is foolish to the Greeks, who seek human wisdom. So when we preach that Christ was crucified, the Jews are offended and the Gentiles say it's all nonsense. 1 Corinthians 1:21-23

Are you looking for a sign from heaven…or do you feel that Christ’s death and resurrection are nonsense? Think again…and then ask God for His wisdom and insight so that you will understand more about Him. It is hard for us to comprehend the depth of God’s love for us—giving up His Son as a sacrifice for our sin. And why? What does Jesus’ crucifixion have to do with my sin—my mistakes and attitudes? The way I understand it, the sacrifice of Jesus has everything to do with the forgiveness of my sin—my very sinful nature. When Adam and Eve first sinned God sacrificed animals, using their skins to “cover” Adam and Eve’s naked bodies and their sin. Likewise, Jesus’ sacrifice “covers” my sin. It is neither offensive or nonsense.

Prayer ~ Lord, give me wisdom to understand more of You—and to share, not so much “preach,” with others about the truth of Jesus’ sacrifice—His crucifixion—and the joy of His resurrection. May that joy not be foolishness or nonsense to anyone—but may they grasp the importance of His sacrifice and believe in the impact it makes in their own 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.

Listen to the Prophesy

"The day is coming when you will see what Daniel the prophet spoke about—the sacrilegious object that causes desecration standing in the Holy Place." (Reader, pay attention!) Matthew 24:15 

God gave Daniel such wisdom that even today we read a warning that Daniel wrote so many years ago when he was in Babylon. This prophesy was a warning of the desecration and destruction of the Temple that happened later in 70 AD. Jesus used Daniel’s passage, Daniel 9:20-27, as an example when He was talking with His disciples about the Last Days. The destruction of the Temple has occurred, but the Last Days—in the End of the Age—are still ahead of us. So reader beware, as Jesus said. Listen up. Don’t be misled—be wise and listen to Jesus words. But the one who endures to the end, he will be saved. Matthew 24:13 NASB. Are you being wise, listening, waiting, watching and applying God’s word to your life?   

Prayer ~ Lord, open our eyes once again that we would not be misled by some Antichrist, posing as You. Give us wisdom that we would not only see Your plan, but implement our role in it and serve You by serving others, that they would know and feel Your love, too.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel and his friends honored God by taking care of their bodies. God rewarded them, especially Daniel, with wisdom. Wisdom that lived on—well past Daniel’s lifetime. The key to Daniel’s diet was purity. Of course he didn’t eat any processed food since they didn’t have those in his day. That had to have included no high fructose corn syrup, no monosodium glutamate (MSG), and no trans or processed fats. We have opportunities for poisoning our bodies that Daniel just couldn’t imagine. His goal was to eat fresh fruits and vegetables. How can you purify your diet to eat more like Daniel and his friends? Consider what you have in your kitchen now…and make a plan to get rid of the junk foods, processed foods and the evil poisons like corn syrup, MSG and trans fats. Replace those with fresh foods. That maybe easier than you think at this time of the year. Summer is a great time for visiting farmer’s markets and fresh produce farms or fruit stands.

 

Farm Fresh Smoothie

Choose about one cup per person of fresh fruit, like peaches, cherries, blueberries and strawberries. Wash, remove pits, and chop, into bite-sized pieces. Additional fresh or frozen fruits like bananas, mangos and pineapple can be added. Add ice, if desired, or a cup or two of water. Blend in a blender until smooth. Serve immediately and enjoy. The vitamin content is highest immediately after blending.

© 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.

Focus on the Truth

The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! But we who are being saved know it is the very power of God. As the Scriptures say, "I will destroy the wisdom of the wise and discard the intelligence of the intelligent."(Isaiah 29:14) So where does this leave the philosophers, the scholars, and the world's brilliant debaters? God has made the wisdom of this world look foolish. 1 Corinthians 1:18-20

God knows what He is doing. Those who are recognized as wise…the brilliant debaters…the politicians who are trying to get everyone’s attention these days may not be as smart as they seem. At least in God’s eyes—and in most Christians’ opinion—they aren’t very wise at all. Neither of the two main candidates, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump, seems to have true Christian dedication or a relationship with God. Is the message of the cross foolish to them?

I’ve heard people laugh at both of them. “Which is the lesser of the two evils?” seems to be the question of the day. Both Clinton and Trump are looking a little foolish. As the National Conventions are about a month away we can only pray that there is some change that will give us all hope…a hope for our nation…and for the world that our nation influences. Paul doesn’t paint a very encouraging picture for the church at Corinth. The message of the cross is foolish to those who are headed for destruction! It seems to me that those who are headed for destruction don’t really care about God, hell, or their own demise. They have blinders on—like those on horses that pull wagons. They can only look ahead. That is good for horses so that they don’t get distracted…but for humans—blinders keep people from having a broad vision—from seeing the truth unless it is directly in front of them. Maybe that is an OK thing. We need to see the Truth and focus on it. Jesus is the Truth, the Way and the Life. He is Wisdom. Do you have blinders on that block you from seeing the Truth…or do they help you focus on the Truth? Open your eyes to His Truth.

Prayer ~ Lord God, open my eyes to see more of Your Truth—to see You and to apply Your word and wisdom to 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.

Are You Obligated to Tell Others about Jesus?

I am under obligation both to Greeks and to barbarians, both to the wise and to the foolish. So, for my part, I am eager to preach the gospel to you also who are in Rome. For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, "BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH." Romans 1:14-17 NASB

Paul was committed to telling everyone that Jesus is the Son of God. No matter what their culture or where the people were from…and whether they were wise or foolish…they heard the Good News message from Paul. He was not ashamed to talk about God and His plan for mankind. I know that early in my Christian walk I didn’t always openly share my faith with complete strangers…or even with some friends and family. As I’ve become more spiritually mature I’ve had more of a burden for the unsaved and I want to tell others about Jesus and my relationship with Him. Still it is hard to be bold…like Paul…and communicate the importance of a relationship with Jesus. Not just knowing who He is…but living to rely on and trust in Him. It is encouraging and comforting to know that God loves us so very much and sent His Son to earth to endure persecution and death on a cross for the sin of mankind. Love is a powerful emotion…and so many people don’t feel worth of God’s love…or anyone’s love, but God loves us even in our unworthy state. Evangelism is not one of my spiritual “gifts” but I do feel obligated, like Paul, to reveal Jesus to those who don’t know just who He is. Do you know Jesus as Savior and Lord?

Prayer ~ Jesus—Your name is above all names…I worship and adore You. Fill me with Your grace that I may make decisions that result in righteousness. Please continue to bless, guide and provide wisdom to my family, friends and neighbors that they would be blessed.

© 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.

Set Yourself Apart—Be Holy

For our proud confidence is this, the testimony of our conscience, that in holiness and godly sincerity, not in fleshly wisdom but in the grace of God, we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially towards you. 2 Corinthians 1:12 NASB

Amazing Grace. Where would we be without God’s grace—His unmerited favor—His blessings that we don’t deserve and can’t earn? The wisdom of the world—the smart thinkers—can’t provide the loving assurance that God gives us. Keep on being holy—for God is Holy and expects no less of us. You must be holy because I, the LORD, am holy. I have set you apart from all other people to be my very own.  Leviticus 20:26. As His sons and daughters we ought to live for Him. But by His doing you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification, and redemption… 1 Corinthians 1:30 NASB

Prayer ~ May God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ give you grace and peace. All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ. Even before He made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in His eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into His own family by bringing us to Himself through Jesus Christ. This is what He wanted to do, and it gave Him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace He has poured out on us who belong to His dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that He purchased our freedom with the blood of His Son and forgave our sins. He has showered His kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. Ephesians 1:2-8

Happy 4^th Birthday, Sweet Lydia!

God’s Blessing on your smiling face.

© 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.

Wisdom in the End

Jesus spoke to His disciples about the Signs of the End of Times. But before any of this happens, they’ll arrest you, hunt you down, and drag you to court and jail. It will go from bad to worse, dog-eat-dog, everyone at your throat because you carry my name. You’ll end up on the witness stand, called to testify. Make up your mind right now not to worry about it. I’ll give you the words and wisdom that will reduce all your accusers to stammers and stutters. You’ll even be turned in by parents, brothers, relatives and friends. Some of you will be dilled. There’s no telling who will hate you because of me. Even so, every detail of your body and soul—even the hairs of your head!—is in my care; nothing of you will be lost. Staying with it—that’s what is required. Stay with it to the end. You won’t be sorry; you’ll be saved.  Luke 21: 12-19 The Message

Is this the Gate to your future?
Garden of Gethsemane - Jerusalem

To know what will happen in the future is the desire of so many people. I’ve come to the point where I’m just trusting the Lord…to take care of me, my family, friends and neighbors. Our lives here in the United States are so blessed…and we generally feel so safe. I know a few people who don’t even lock their doors—whether they are home or not. I lock mine—am I not trusting the Lord in that? Who knows? The thing I know is that the Lord has promised to never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5) and I trust Him in that promise. He has not promised that everything will be rosy—but He will provide for our needs. Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things (food and clothes) shall be added to you…Matthew 6:33. The next verse goes on to tell us that each day has enough trouble of its own. That assures me…there will be difficulties ahead. Brace yourself. Don’t worry, be surprised, afraid or bogged down when it comes. Hang in there. You are not alone—everyone has problems. Don’t be anxious is a theme in the Bible. Matthew 6:25, 27, 34 and Luke 10:41. And when the end comes…if we’re still here on earth—don’t worry. The Lord Himself—as the Holy Spirit—will give us words to say—to defend ourselves and Him! Those words will leave our accusers speechless—unable to refute themselves. Remember…He will never leave us or forsake us. That includes not only our bodies—but our souls, minds and thus our voices, too. I am warmed by that thought—like being hugged. I don’t mind being alone—but there is security in knowing that someone is near to protect and give advice. For me, that is God Himself. How about you?

Prayer ~ Lord, thank you for the assurance once again that You will never leave us or forsake us…and that You will be there to defend us…giving us wise words to speak, in Your defense if necessary.

© 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 Servant

So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him. Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom the master has put in charge of the servants in his household to give them their food at the proper time? It will be good for that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions. Matthew 24:44-47 NIV

So if we are doing what is right…as Jesus taught about the faithful servant 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 wisely show me specifically what I can do to prepare myself and help others to get ready, too.

© 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

Where is That Man?

…later, after his family had gone up to the Feast (Feast of Booths), he (Jesus) also went. But he kept out of the way, careful not to draw attention to himself. The Jews were already out looking for him, asking around, “Where is that man?” There was a lot of contentious talk about him circulating through the crowds. Some were saying, “He’s a good man.” But others said, “Not so. He’s selling snake oil.” This kind of talk went on in guarded whispers because of the intimidating Jewish leaders. With the Feast already half over, Jesus showed up in the Temple, teaching. The Jews were impressed, but puzzled: “How does he know so much without being schooled?” John 7:10-15 The Message

Who is this man, Jesus? Where is he? How does he know so much without going to school? Questions that people asked—wondering about Jesus’ wisdom. It says that they were impressed. Are you impressed by Jesus’ teachings? Most of our values, whether people realize it or not, are based on the Judeo-Christian values that are given in the Ten Commandments and by Jesus…love one another and treat others as you would want them to treat you. Jesus went to the Temple even when He said He wasn’t going to go. He was so motivated to teach the people about His Heavenly Father. People were guarding what they were saying about Jesus so that the Jewish leaders didn’t overhear them. They were afraid that the Jewish leaders would want to kill them, as they want to kill Jesus. We must be careful about not speaking out for Jesus. Jesus warned His disciples before He sent them out to talk to the people of Israel. "Therefore everyone who confesses Me before men, I will also confess him before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, I will also deny him before My Father who is in heaven." Matthew 10:32-33. Who wants to be negated or disowned before the Heavenly Father? That would be like having the gates of heaven slammed closed in one’s face. Speak up for Jesus…but like my grandmother would say…if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all.

Jesus was respected for what He wisely taught. Do you respect His teachings? Do you read them every day…and put them into practice in your life? How are you responding to Jesus’ teaching and to know Him today?

Prayer~ Jesus, I rejoice knowing that You created the Feast of Booths or Tabernacles as a joyous time for people to connect with You and with each other. Today as I read Your words in John and in Matthew, please fill my heart and mind with a deeper understanding of You and our Heavenly Father.

© 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 Ready?

Be dressed in readiness, and keep your lamps lit. Be like men who are waiting for their Master when He returns from the wedding feast, so that they may immediately open the door to Him when He comes and knocks. Blessed are those slaves whom the Master will find on the alert when He comes; truly I say to you, that He will gird himself to serve, and have them recline at the table, and will come up and wait on them. …You too, be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour that you do not expect. Luke 12:35-37, 40

Are you ready? We don’t know when Jesus will return. Even Jesus Himself doesn’t know when He’ll return. However, no one knows the day or hour when these things will happen, not even the angels in heaven or the Son Himself. Only the Father knows. Mark 13:32 NLT. The Holy Spirit gives us wisdom when He tells us to be ready. We don’t want to be out seeking more oil for our lamps, i.e. the Holy Spirit—like five of the ten virgins who were waiting for the bridegroom in Jesus’ parable found in Matthew 25:1-13. Nor do we want to be left behind—as in the parable of the two women grinding grain into flour (Luke 17:35). He told that to His disciples after the Pharisees had asked Him about the Kingdom of God. People throughout history have thought that Jesus would return soon…or during their lifetime. More prophesies are lining up…like Israel returning to the Promised Land…and the continual wars and rumors of wars in the Middle East. But still we don’t know if this return of Christ will happen soon or if it will be another hundred years or even 100 days. Whenever it is…be ready. Jesus is getting ready for us in Heaven by building lots of extra rooms for us. There is more than enough room in my Father's home. If this were not so, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? When everything is ready, I will come and get you, so that you will always be with me where I am. John 14:2-3 NLT. So when we get there we won’t have to be like Joseph and Mary with no place to stay…we’ll have a place of our own! We can hope that Jesus’ promise happens soon. He who is the faithful witness to all these things says, "Yes, I am coming soon!" Amen! Come, Lord Jesus! May the grace of the Lord Jesus be with God's holy people. Revelation 22:20-21 NLT

Prayer ~ Praise to the Holy Spirit for He is worthy of praise. Holy Spirit…I think it is possible that You are always ready. I am listening for Your voice to teach me and help me remember to be prepared for the greatest day of my life…the day that I go to be in Heaven. You will be there with me for I am claiming that promise that You will never leave me or forsake me (Hebrews 13:5).

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Daniel was a wise man. When we think of “wise men” in the Bible, we always think of those Wise Men who visited Baby Jesus in Bethlehem. Where were they from? The scripture tells us that they were from the east, but it wasn’t specific as to whether that was Persia, Arabia, or Mesopotamia. Could it have been that they were from Babylon? Perhaps their ancestors had known and been influenced by Daniel and the other Jews who had been taken captive by King Nebuchadnezzar. 

Veggies

One of my favorite ways to eat vegetables is just a simple stir fry. Chop up red, yellow and orange sweet peppers, a small zucchini, several small cremini mushrooms and about a tablespoon of sweet onion into small bite-sized portions, so that there is at least a cup of veggies per person. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a frying pan and add the veggies, along with a clove of garlic, grated on a microplane grater. Stir frequently until the veggies are at a tender yet crunchy state. The less the vegetables are cooked, the more nutrients are retained. Enjoy some fresh fruit, as Daniel and his friends did, for variety and more nutrients.

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

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

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Prepared?

Then the Kingdom of Heaven will be like ten bridesmaids who took their lamps and went to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish, and five were wise. The five who were foolish didn't take enough olive oil for their lamps, but the other five were wise enough to take along extra oil. When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight they were roused by the shout, 'Look, the bridegroom is coming! Come out and meet him!' All the bridesmaids got up and prepared their lamps. Then the five foolish ones asked the others, 'Please give us some of your oil because our lamps are going out.' But the others replied, 'We don't have enough for all of us. Go to a shop and buy some for yourselves.' But while they were gone to buy oil, the bridegroom came. Then those who were ready went in with him to the marriage feast, and the door was locked. Later, when the other five bridesmaids returned, they stood outside, calling, 'Lord! Lord! Open the door for us!' But he called back, 'Believe me, I don't know you!' So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return. Matthew 25:1-13

I love this parable that Jesus told His disciples about the kingdom of heaven. Only found in the book of Matthew, it gives us Protestants a view into the Jewish customs. The Jewish couple is betrothed—promised in marriage to each other, but their wedding doesn’t take place until their home is prepared. The bridegroom goes to his father’s house and adds on a room—or rooms depending on his wealth. When his father says that the home is ready for the bride, he sends the bridegroom to get her. Meanwhile the wedding party, including those ten virgins, have been preparing for the wedding at the bride’s home—helping her get ready.

I just imagine these ten girls all curled up, sleeping while they are waiting for the bridegroom’s procession. "He is coming!" They are awakened suddenly, excited, jumping up and down, bumping into each other, and some discover they don’t have enough oil. The important point is that the five wise girls who planned ahead had enough “oil” to light their lamps and the others didn’t.

The bridegroom arrives at the bride’s home and after observing some religious ceremonies he wisks her away to their new home, at his father’s house—where the wedding ceremony and the festivities take place. The bride’s maids in waiting would come out with oil lamps to light up the entrance as the groom and his guests arrived. After the bridegroom procession entered his father’s house, the doors were shut and no other guests were received. Then the bride and groom would be seated under a colorful canopy and for the next three to five days the father of the groom hosted an elaborate and elegant banquet. The wedding feast. Those who are ready go with the bride and groom—those who aren’t ready miss out altogether. Moral of the story—be ready. The unprepared girls had to go buy more oil—and when they arrived at the wedding feast the door was locked and they were not allowed to enter. Thus they were left out in the cold—the Lord didn’t know them.

The bride symbolically represents the church, the bridegroom is Christ, and the ten virgins are said to be representative of the professing Jewish remnant on earth at Christ’s return. The oil is symbolic for the Holy Spirit—so be wise… keep yourself filled. Be ready—again, BE PREPARED! We don’t know the hour or the day that Christ, the bridegroom, will return and take us to His feast. That is The Banquet we don’t want to miss!

Read the passage in John 14:1-3…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. This is Jesus’ promise to us that He is preparing a place for us in heaven—in His Father’s house—just like the Jewish bridegroom in this scripture in Matthew.

Lord God, thank you for your plan to have Your Son prepare a place just for us. We so look forward to the great wedding feast in Your Heavenly home one day.

© 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.

Honor Your Father

Jerusalem Model - Old City - Temple

Every year Jesus' parents went to Jerusalem for the Passover festival. When Jesus was twelve years old, they attended the festival as usual. After the celebration was over, they started home to Nazareth, but Jesus stayed behind in Jerusalem. His parents didn't miss him at first, because they assumed he was among the other travelers. But when he didn't show up that evening, they started looking for him among their relatives and friends. When they couldn't find him, they went back to Jerusalem to search for him there. Three days later they finally discovered him in the Temple, sitting among the religious teachers, listening to them and asking questions. All who heard him were amazed at his understanding and his answers. His parents didn't know what to think. "Son," his mother said to him, "why have you done this to us? Your father and I have been frantic, searching for you everywhere." "But why did you need to search?" he asked. "Didn't you know that I must be in my Father's house?" But they didn't understand what he meant. Then he returned to Nazareth with them and was obedient to them. And his mother stored all these things in her heart. Jesus grew in wisdom and in stature and in favor with God and all the people.  Luke 2:41-52

Three days later they found Jesus in the Temple. Three days. How many twelve year olds do you know who would sit in a church or other religious building for three days listening and discussing religion with leaders or teachers?  Jesus was an amazing child—it is no wonder that Mary pondered and remembered facts about Jesus life. It must have been a joy for Mary and Joseph to raise Jesus…an obedient child, although he did stay behind when they left Jerusalem after the Passover festival. This passage in Luke tells us that Jesus grew in wisdom, stature and favor with God and other people. God was probably telling the angels in heaven, “That is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased!” I imagine He was beaming with pride at the actions of His Son. That is how it is with fathers when their sons are doing well—when the child is obedient and honors his father. Father’s Day is coming up in a couple of weeks. Now is the time to start planning how you will honor your father. Jesus probably honored Joseph as his early father in ways besides his obedience. How will you show honor to your father…or the fathers in your family this year for Father’s Day?

Prayer ~ Jesus, thank you for being an example to us on how we are to treat our earthly and heaven fathers. Just as You were obedient to Mary, Joseph and to our Heavenly Father, we want to be obedient to our Heavenly Father…and also treat our earthly father with respect…whether he is deserving of it or not. Give us wisdom to be good parents and to guide our children and grandchildren in ways that are pleasing to You now and forever more.

© 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

Healthy Child

When Jesus' parents had fulfilled all the requirements of the law of the Lord, they returned home to Nazareth in Galilee. There the child grew up healthy and strong. He was filled with wisdom, and God's favor was on Him. Luke 2:39-40

Sea of Galilee

Joseph and Mary went through all the steps that Jewish parents had to go through to dedicate and circumcise their new child and ritually purify the mother. Religious laws were legalistic…and even though Joseph and Mary were not rich, they did offer a sacrifice at the Temple that was expected of them. Then according to Luke, they went back to the region of Galilee and the town of Nazareth. The book of Matthew gives the details of them going to Egypt after the Wise Men visited. At any rate, Jesus was brought up to follow Jewish laws and rituals. He was well cared for and grew up healthy and strong. Can’t you just imagine His bronze skin glowing in the sunlight—healthy and strong? God watched over Him—filled Him with wisdom and Jesus in response to His Heavenly Father’s blessing was esteemed. God approved of His Son, Jesus. That is the dream of all parents…to have a healthy child, who grows strong and wise, applying the knowledge that they gain. Kids are such sponges. They soak up the knowledge not only from their schoolwork, but from everything around them. That is why it is so important to monitor what they watch on TV, see on the Internet, or even read in books or magazines. They are so impressionable. Be careful little eyes what you see…be careful little ears what you hear…for the Father up above is looking down in love, so be careful.... We want to have God’s approval, just as Jesus did. Do you have plans for your children, or grandchildren that they would grow in wisdom and understanding and have the esteemed approval of the Lord?    

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, please bless our children or grandchildren with wisdom and give us grace to see beyond ourselves to guide them in the decisions that they make so that they would live lives pleasing to You. May we all bring You 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.

Scoffing at Wisdom

He returned (from the Sea of Galilee) to Nazareth, his hometown. When he taught there in the synagogue, everyone was amazed and said, "Where does he get this wisdom and the power to do miracles?" Then they scoffed, "He's just the carpenter's son, and we know Mary, his mother, and his brothers--James, Joseph, Simon, and Judas. All his sisters live right here among us. Where did he learn all these things?" And they were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. Then Jesus told them, "A prophet is honored everywhere except in his own hometown and among his own family." And so he did only a few miracles there because of their unbelief. Matthew 13:54-58

This scripture passage tell us that the people of Nazareth…were deeply offended and refused to believe in him. They were offended—deeply offended. Scoffing at the wisdom of Jesus who obviously was a good speaker and teacher, they couldn’t believe that anyone that grew up there could be so knowledgeable and wise. Those people in Nazareth had a lot of nerve—self-righteous snobs. Who did they think they were, judging Jesus? He was full of wisdom and unusual power. Were they jealous that they themselves…or their son, grandson, or even nephews didn’t get that wisdom and power? Why should this son of a carpenter have it? Just unbelieving that anyone from Nazareth—that dusty little village—could actually be a great teacher. Doubting drains energy. If no one believed, then no miracles could happen. There were few miracles exercised on that trip to Nazareth.

What does that tell us about faith? I think we have to believe—in Jesus as the Son of God…and that He was a man, incarnate God and man. In that belief the power of Jesus is released…and we can ask for healing, for strength, or for wisdom. Ask and we will receive…

At that time you won't need to ask me for anything. I tell you the truth, you will ask the Father directly, and he will grant your request because you use my name. You haven't done this before. Ask, using my name, and you will receive, and you will have abundant joy. I have spoken of these matters in figures of speech, but soon I will stop speaking figuratively and will tell you plainly all about the Father. Then you will ask in my name. I'm not saying I will ask the Father on your behalf, for the Father himself loves you dearly because you love me and believe that I came from God. John 16:23-27

Ask—it seems pretty simple, but there are a lot of factors involved. Attitude. Action. Faith. God’s will. Just believe. God will take care of you—in His way…at His time. Trust. Trust and Obey.

Prayer ~ Lord, as my day ends…a new day begins for someone in another part of the world. Guide me into a restful sleep…and the person on the other side of the world into decisions that would be pleasing to You. Help us all to have a deeper faith in Jesus. No scoffing for us.

Happy 1st Anniversary to Ben and Elizabeth. 

May God continue to bless 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.

Can You Hear Him? Listen.

One day some teachers of religious law and Pharisees came to Jesus and said, "Teacher, we want you to show us a miraculous sign to prove your authority." ...The queen of Sheba will also stand up against this generation on judgment day and condemn it, for she came from a distant land to hear the wisdom of Solomon. Now someone greater than Solomon is here—but you refuse to listen. Matthew 12:38, 42

Writing in the sand - Israel

Do you refuse to listen to wisdom? Is it the world’s wisdom…or is it God’s wisdom, like that taught by Solomon, that you don’t hear or see? Do you want a “sign” from God…from Jesus…to show you some miraculous thing so that you will believe or will have greater faith? Are you willing to travel a distance to hear a word of God? Is that distance really short…from your chair to the Internet? Jesus is greater than Solomon. Do you hear His wisdom? He is NOT dead. He is still speaking to us. Can you hear Him? Listen. 

Prayer ~ Lord God, open our ears and hearts to listen to Your voice and truly hear You. May the words of Your heart and the meditations of our minds bring glory to You as we focus on applying Your words 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.

Do You Consider Yourself Wise and Clever?

At that time Jesus prayed this prayer: "O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, thank you for hiding these things from those who think themselves wise and clever, and for revealing them to the childlike. Yes, Father, it pleased you to do it this way! My Father has entrusted everything to me. No one truly knows the Son except the Father, and no one truly knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him." Then Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." Matthew 11:25-30

Jesus will give you rest.

Jesus had just spoken to John’s disciples and then a crowd of people about John the Baptist. He also condemned cities He had visited who had not repented. This prayer and invitation to salvation followed. People do think of themselves wise—but what they feel they have is not God’s wisdom. God reveals Himself to whomever He wants and it is not to those who are self-righteous. Jesus said that God shows or reveals, this way of salvation to the childlike…those who are open to accepting the truth. It seems like those who consider themselves wise are creating a barrier between themselves and God—so that they will not learn the truth—Jesus IS the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Jesus told him (Thomas), "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me. John 14:6. The only way to understand the Father God is to understand—to have an open heart to the Son, Jesus Christ.

Jesus knows how weary we humans can be…physically and spiritually. He was once a man Himself—so He can identify with us. Come to Him—give all your troubles, burdens, confusion and grief to Him. He has strong shoulders; He can carry your load. What does giving up your burden have to do with being wise? Only those with God’s spiritual wisdom can truly understand what Jesus was saying—come to Him. Seek and receive salvation in Him. Learn from Him, as He comes alongside of you—yoking Himself to you to carry your problems. Perhaps those who consider themselves wise can’t humble themselves enough to look Jesus in the eye and ask for His help. Do you consider yourself wise and clever…or can you humble yourself and seek Jesus’ help through life?

Jesus teaches those who are teachable. He said...Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. Find rest...sweet rest. Ahhh--aren't we all looking for that? I am. Rest for my tired and weary bones...and for my soul as well. when I am rested I am more useful to the Lord--I can be of greater, more devoted service. How about you?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, take my burden—my trials, temptations, regrets, and unmet expectations—and guide me in Your way—Your everlasting pathway. May others find strength in You as they ask for spiritual wisdom from the Father…not worldly wisdom.

© 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

Have You Ever Considered a Ten Day Test?

"Please test us for ten days on a diet of vegetables and water," Daniel said. "At the end of the ten days, see how we look compared to the other young men who are eating the king's food. Then make your decision in light of what you see." The attendant agreed to Daniel's suggestion and tested them for ten days. At the end of the ten days, Daniel and his three friends looked healthier and better nourished than the young men who had been eating the food assigned by the king. So after that, the attendant fed them only vegetables instead of the food and wine provided for the others. God gave these four young men an unusual aptitude for understanding every aspect of literature and wisdom. And God gave Daniel the special ability to interpret the meanings of visions and dreams. When the training period ordered by the king was completed, the chief of staff brought all the young men to King Nebuchadnezzar. The king talked with them, and no one impressed him as much as Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. So they entered the royal service. Whenever the king consulted them in any matter requiring wisdom and balanced judgment, he found them ten times more capable than any of the magicians and enchanters in his entire kingdom. Daniel 1:12-20

Daniel and the other Jews from Judah had walked about 500 miles to Babylon when King Nebuchadnezzar seized that region. You would think that trek would have given them a tremendous appetite. King Nebuchadnezzar wanted some of the Jewish royal family and nobility to serve in his palace and offered them rich meaty food from his own table and wine to keep them healthy. Daniel was in that group of young men chosen to be put into serve with the king, but he didn’t want to defile himself with royal food and wine. That is where the ten day test came into being. “Keep yourself pure”—no pork or dependence upon the king’s royal food—was Daniel’s goal for himself and his friends. How many of us would give up rich foods offered to us just to honor God’s laws? Have you ever considered a ten day test…just to see if you are healthier on a diet of vegetables and water?

Prayer ~ Lord, give us wisdom to make wise choices when it comes to food. Daniel and his friends were a good example to us—not defiling themselves with rich foods and sweet treats. Help each of us to be strong like Daniel and please give each person reading this blog knowledge and understanding that they can apply to their lives.

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

I’ve often wanted to try a vegetarian diet…but it seemed such a challenge to balance the proteins and use just the right herbs to make the food tasty. Thirty some years ago when I was a young officer’s wife in a Wives’ Club gourmet group, I tried a lentil loaf assuming it would be similar to a meat loaf (one of my husband’s favorites). It was terrible…and my guests and I had a good laugh over our “vegetarian” meal experiment, swearing that we would never fix those recipes again! Over the years I’ve had a few vegetarian cookbooks and have discarded all of them, but there are plenty of vegetarian recipes online. Once again I want to try to incorporate more vegetarian dishes into my repertoire and weekly menus. Like Daniel, you and I can eat fresh fruits and vegetables, preferably raw, although steamed or roasted vegetables can be more easily digested.

Was Daniel’s vegetarian diet really just a mere fast from meat, rich foods and wine? It may have been more about being obedient to God and taking care of this “temple” that He has created in us. With that in mind—I challenge you to consider incorporating more vegetarian dishes into your diet…and taking care of this temple that God has created in you. Share with me your favorite vegetarian recipe and tales of your Daniel adventures in foods. For the next ten Fridays…A Daniel Feast.

© 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

Do You Have Ears to Listen and Understand?

When speaking to a crowd about John the Baptist Jesus said …For before John came, all the prophets and the law of Moses looked forward to this present time. And if you are willing to accept what I say, he is Elijah, the one the prophets said would come. Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! To what can I compare this generation? It is like children playing a game in the public square. They complain to their friends, 'We played wedding songs, and you didn't dance, so we played funeral songs, and you didn't mourn.' For John didn't spend his time eating and drinking, and you say, 'He's possessed by a demon.' The Son of Man, on the other hand, feasts and drinks, and you say, 'He's a glutton and a drunkard, and a friend of tax collectors and other sinners!' But wisdom is shown to be right by its results." Then Jesus began to denounce the towns where He had done so many of His miracles, because they hadn't repented of their sins and turned to God. Matthew 11:13-20

Wisdom. The source of wisdom is Jesus. God has united you with Christ Jesus. For our benefit God made Him to be wisdom itself. Christ made us right with God; He made us pure and holy, and He freed us from sin. 1 Corinthians 1:30. In this Matthew 11 passage Jesus is telling people about John the Baptist—that John was Elijah. Glory! Wisdom is shown to be right by its results. John was the voice of one calling in the wilderness—preparing the way for people to come to Jesus, telling them to repent. But people…this crowd of Jews that Jesus was addressing…didn’t believe John…or Jesus. Jesus also said… Anyone with ears to hear should listen and understand! That was a recurring statement after several parables that Jesus told… "If anyone has ears to hear, let him hear." Mark 4:23 NASB. Listen. Listen…and understand. What does it take for us to listen? We have to focus our attention on someone else…use self-control so that our own thoughts don’t get in the way…or take us off on a tangent. Focus. Listen. Understand? To understand is to comprehend what was said…or read, putting things together to make sense. Jesus explained some of His parables to His disciples using that phrase about understanding. And He was saying to them, "To you has been given the mystery of the kingdom of God, but those who are outside get everything in parables, so that WHILE SEEING, THEY MAY SEE AND NOT PERCEIVE, AND WHILE HEARING, THEY MAY HEAR AND NOT UNDERSTAND, OTHERWISE THEY MIGHT RETURN AND BE FORGIVEN." Mark 4:11-12 NASB.

Do we understand what Jesus said in His parable…in His teachings? Listen and understand. Wisdom will reveal to us whatever it is that Jesus is teaching. Ask for wisdom before you read His Word.

Prayer ~ Lord, give us wisdom that we would listen and understand whatever it is that You are teaching. Open our eyes to see, our ears to hear and our hearts and minds to understand.

© 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

Do You Listen Wisely?

"Anyone who listens to my teaching and follows it is wise, like a person who builds a house on solid rock. Though the rain comes in torrents and the floodwaters rise and the winds beat against that house, it won't collapse because it is built on bedrock. But anyone who hears my teaching and doesn't obey it is foolish, like a person who builds a house on sand. When the rains and floods

The Rock or the Sand?

come and the winds beat against that house, it will collapse with a mighty crash." Matthew 7:24-27

Whether it is a physical house, or a spiritual house…and whether it is for one person, or for a family, a home needs to be built on a strong foundation. In most cities building inspectors come and make sure that the builder has prepared the forms for the foundation properly even before the concrete is delivered. Then again after the concrete foundation is prepared, inspectors come again to be sure that the house has a proper foundation or alignment. When the house is built in a less populated area, maybe the inspections are not as critical—but they are still necessary. When building a “spiritual” home there needs to be a wise mentor who can help build a good foundation—making sure that a deep relationship with the Lord is the basis of that foundation. Church attendance, Bible studies, scripture memorization and Christian fellowship provide additional depth and support to that spiritual relationship.

How are your spiritual and physical homes? There is not much we can do to the physical home foundation once it is formed, but our spiritual foundation can be strengthened with every decision we make to turn our life over more fully to the Lord. Choose today how deeply you want to serve God—in just a casual way—or from the very depth of your soul.

Listen to Jesus' teachings—be wise. Build your home on the Rock.

Prayer ~ Lord, show us the condition of our foundation with you and give us insight and wisdom in how to make that stronger. We love you and we live to serve you. Amen.

© 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.