Death for Disobedience

Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu put coals of fire in their incense burners and sprinkled incense over them. In this way, they disobeyed the LORD by burning before Him the wrong kind of fire, different than He had commanded. So fire blazed forth from the LORD's presence and burned them up, and they died there before the LORD. Then Moses said to Aaron, "This is what the LORD meant when He said, 'I will display my holiness through those who come near me. I will display my glory before all the people.'" And Aaron was silent. Leviticus 10:1-3

The wrong kind of fire—burning the incense incorrectly. God had a plan and these two sons of Aaron’s didn’t follow the plan. Poof! They were gone. God is serious. Do things my way…or you won’t be doing that again. Not just do it my way…or not at all. Just follow the rules. Makes you want to look very closely at just when, why, how and where God wants things done His way. Aaron’s sons took a short cut and burned the incense their way.

How do we take short cuts in our dealing with God? Are we silent like Aaron? Do we use rote prayers…saying the same thing over and over? Do we not take His commands seriously…and take His name in vain when we get frustrated or upset? Are we truly observing a Sabbath day—and this time of Lent?  Do we honor Him with our whole heart, mind and soul, and love our neighbor as ourselves? Are we living the holy life that God’s expects? He will display His Holiness to all who come near Him.

Prayer ~ Wow Lord, You were serious about doing things Your way in Your Tabernacle. Everything belongs to You…so we need to do things Your way. Open our eyes and hearts that all we do pleases and honors You.

Daily Bible Reading: February 18 – Leviticus 16-18

(Revised and reused from February 18, 2017)

© 2018 Text and Photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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He Won't Abandon You

So we are Christ's ambassadors; God is making his appeal through us. We speak for Christ when we plead, "Come back to God!" For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ. As God's partners, we beg you not to accept this marvelous gift of God's kindness and then ignore it. For God says, "At just the right time, I heard you. On the day of salvation, I helped you."Indeed, the "right time" is now. Today is the day of salvation. We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind. We have been beaten, been put in prison, faced angry mobs, worked to exhaustion, endured sleepless nights, and gone without food. We prove ourselves by our purity, our understanding, our patience, our kindness, by the Holy Spirit within us, and by our sincere love. We faithfully preach the truth. God's power is working in us. We use the weapons of righteousness in the right hand for attack and the left hand for defense. We serve God whether people honor us or despise us, whether they slander us or praise us. We are honest, but they call us impostors. We are ignored, even though we are well known. We live close to death, but we are still alive. We have been beaten, but we have not been killed. Our hearts ache, but we always have joy. We are poor, but we give spiritual riches to others. We own nothing, and yet we have everything. 2 Corinthians 5:20 - 6:10

Come back to God. You may think...come back--I didn't leave Him. Well, He certainly didn't leave you or me. He has promised to never leave us or forsake us.
     - But if from there you seek the LORD your God, you will find him if you seek him with all your heart and with all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the LORD your God and obey him. For the LORD your God is a merciful God; he will not abandon or destroy you or forget the covenant with your ancestors, which he confirmed to them by oath. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 NIV


I will never leave you or forsake you. Written in Hebrew on this ring.

During Lent it is a time to "come back to God" by seeking Him with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. Paul is teaching here in Second Corinthians that this is the time...the day...of salvation. Salvation always comes first. Then look at the list of actions...enduring troubles, hardships and calamities. Yes. Being a Christian is not an easy road to travel, but it is an honor to honor God--to serve Him. Are you serving God...or do you need to "come back to God"?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus, Thank You for being the sacrifice for my sins. I am filled with joy and it doesn't matter what others think about me--because it is an honor to serve You. I know that You will never leave me or forsake me.

Daily Bible Reading – Leviticus 14-15

© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Their Choices Made the Land Desolate

Then the word of the LORD came to Zechariah saying, "Thus has the LORD of hosts said, 'Dispense true justice and practice kindness and compassion each to his brother; and do not oppress the widow or the orphan, the stranger or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.' But they refused to pay attention and turned a stubborn shoulder and stopped their ears from hearing. They made their hearts like flint so that they could not hear the law and the words which the LORD of hosts had sent by His Spirit through the former prophets; therefore great wrath came from the LORD of hosts. And just as He called and they would not listen, so they called and I would not listen," says the LORD of hosts; "but I scattered them with a storm wind among all the nations whom they have not known. Thus the land is desolated behind them so that no one went back and forth, for they made the pleasant land desolate." Zechariah 7:8-14

Are you stubborn like a donkey?

Stubborn hearts—rejecting the wise and kind words of guidance that the Holy Spirit was giving the Israelites. Just like any loving father teaching his children: be kind—play nice. But the stubborn little brats said, “No! I want to do it my way.” Hadn’t they heard of the Golden Rule? Hardening their hearts towards the Lord was not a wise thing. How often do we do that? Sometimes just a little stiffness. I want to do my own thing…my own way. Just like a two year old. Step back. Deep breath. Focus on the Lord. What do you hear Him saying to you? Justice , kindness, compassion? How will you respond? Like the Israelites—who refused to listen—or are your choices turning your heart towards God? If we don’t choose God’s ways will our land become desolate?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, please bless and guide us that we would make good decisions that would result in justice, kindness and compassion for those around us.

Daily Bible Reading – Leviticus 11-13

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

Healthy Foods Menu

Since February is National Heart Month, it is a good time to consider eating good foods and exercising. Exercise at least 20 minutes every day and then feast on the bounty God has provided for us. Here are some healthy heart foods to consider in your menu planning:

·         Chick peas – hummus, minestrone soup

·         Sardines and salmon – high in omega 3’s

·         Leafy greens – contain magnesium essential to a healthy heart – includes spinach, kale, Swiss chard, broccoli, romaine lettuce

·         Wine – adults only, but do serve your kiddos concord grape juice, no sugar added

·         Milk – even almond or coconut milk – high in calcium and Vitamin D

·         Almonds

·         Oats

·         Fresh fruits – in the colors of the rainbow

What can you do with these food items? How about a spinach salad with salmon, almonds, chick peas and a wine and olive oil dressing? A little oatmeal with fresh blueberries, cinnamon, honey, and milk for dessert rounds out the food list. And you thought there couldn’t be just one dish/meal that would have all these foods! So choose some healthy foods and feast on them, not just today or during February, but include good fresh foods at every meal all year around. Shop the outside aisles of your supermarket—that’s where the fresh foods are located. Enjoy a Banquet at the King’s Table.

© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Turn to Our Compassionate God

Lent Day 2

Blow the horn in Zion; sound the alarm on My holy mountain! Let all the residents of the land tremble, for the Day of the LORD is coming; in fact, it is near -- a day of darkness and gloom, a day of clouds and dense overcast, like the dawn spreading over the mountains; a great and strong people appears, such as never existed in ages past and never will again in all the generations to come. .... Even now--this is the Lord's declaration --turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Tear your hearts, not just your clothes, and return to the LORD your God. For He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, rich in faithful love, and He relents from sending disaster. Who knows? He may turn and relent and leave a blessing behind Him, so you can offer grain and wine to the LORD your God. Blow the horn in Zion! Announce a sacred fast; proclaim an assembly. Gather the people; sanctify the congregation; assemble the aged; gather the children, even those nursing at the breast. Let the groom leave his bedroom, and the bride her honeymoon chamber. Let the priests, the LORD's ministers, weep between the portico and the altar. Let them say: "Have pity on Your people, LORD, and do not make Your inheritance a disgrace, an object of scorn among the nations. Why should it be said among the peoples, 'Where is their God? ' " Joel 2:1-2, 12-17

Turn to the Lord--as He requested in this scripture passage--with all your heart, with fasting and mourning. Yes. Lent is a season of fasting--to focus on God--and a time of mourning--for Christ our  Messiah has given up so much for us...and we are unworthy. So don't just turn to the Lord...but return    to Him. Were you once in the midst of God...in a relationship with Him...and you slipped away? Do you hear Him calling you back? Listen closely. I hear Him calling me. Give up your rebellious ways--come back to me--just as when you first loved me.  Yes, Lord, I hear you calling.

Like the butterfly...fly back into the presence of God. Be renewed.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...You are a compassionate God. Please forgive my rebelliousness. Have pity on me--and renew our relationship. Thank you for all that You have done for me--for I don't deserve anything--even your love. 

Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 8-10

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

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Ash Wednesday - A Gift for Me?

Beginning of Lent
[A psalm of David, regarding the time Nathan the prophet came to him after David had committed adultery with Bathsheba.] Have mercy on me, O God, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion; it haunts me day and night. Against you, and you alone, have I sinned; I have done what is evil in your sight. You will be proved right in what you say, and your judgment against me is just. For I was born a sinner--yes, from the moment my mother conceived me. But you desire honesty from the womb, teaching me wisdom even there. Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Oh, give me back my joy again; you have broken me--now let me rejoice. Don't keep looking at my sins. Remove the stain of my guilt. Create in me a clean heart, O God. Renew a loyal spirit within me. Do not banish me from your presence, and don't take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and make me willing to obey you. Then I will teach your ways to rebels, and they will return to you. Forgive me for shedding blood, O God who saves; then I will joyfully sing of your forgiveness. Unseal my lips, O Lord, that my mouth may praise you. You do not desire a sacrifice, or I would offer one. You do not want a burnt offering. The sacrifice you desire is a broken spirit. You will not reject a broken and repentant heart, O God. Psalm 51:1-17

Lent is a time of reflection--a time to recall what Jesus has done or each of us. We are sinful people...since the time of Adam and Eve. The sacrifice of blood is the only way to find forgiveness...and justification from our sins. Jesus was that ultimate sacrifice--a sinless man--the Son of God--who died on a cross that we might be forgiven and ultimately have eternal life. Sounds simple. It is. Simple, yet complicated. This sacrifice of Jesus life for our sins is a gift. We must admit our sins and confess them to God to receive that "gift" of eternal life. It is a humbling action on our part--but so much easier than what Jesus went through hanging on a cross for us. We don't deserve His mercy--but He freely gives it to us. We can not perform any task...or do anything to earn eternal life. Just acknowledge and receive The Gift. Do you accept it? Can you acknowledge Him as your Savior?

Jesus on the Cross at the Holy Family Shrine - near Gretna, Nebraska

Today is Ash Wednesday, a day that typically marking the beginning of Lent for forty days before Ressurection Sunday--Easter. Some churches solemnly have a service in which ashes are placed on people's foreheads to remind us...By the sweat of your brow will you have food to eat until you return to the ground from which you were made. For you were made from dust, and to dust you will return. Genesis 3:19
God desires a humble and broken spirit from us. Are you willing to put God first in your life? I am.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Have mercy on me, Lord, because of your unfailing love. Because of your great compassion, blot out the stain of my sins. Wash me clean from my guilt. Purify me from my sin. For I recognize my rebellion--it is sometimes overwhelming. (Psalm 51). I humbly come before You--confessing that I am a sinner--You are my Lord and Savior. Thank You for sacrificing Your life for mine. 

Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 5-7
Begin Lent - Reflect on what Jesus has done for you. Prepare your hearts for His return.

Happy Valentine's Day

Happy Birthday--Kendall

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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No Worries

More of Jesus' classic words from The Sermon on the Mount...

That is why I tell you not to worry about everyday life--whether you have enough food and drink, or enough clothes to wear. Isn't life more than food, and your body more than clothing? Look at the birds. They don't plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren't you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? Matthew 6:25-27

Does this little gator look happy? He should--God takes care of him just like the birds...and us.

Don't worry...Be happy. Does that start a song going in your head? Those song lyrics weren't written from Jesus teaching for His followers in this scripture passage--nor did Jesus directly quote any Old Testament scripture. There are passages concerning worry and declaring God's provision of food for people and animals alike.

     - Worry weighs a person down; an encouraging word cheers a person up. Proverbs 12:25
     - Who provides food for the ravens when their young cry out to God and wander about in hunger? Job 38:41
     - He (God) gives food to every living thing. His faithful love endures forever. Psalm 136:25
    - For your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom. You rule throughout all generations. The LORD always keeps his promises; he is gracious in all he does. The LORD helps the fallen and lifts those bent beneath their loads. The eyes of all look to you (God) in hope; you give them their food as they need it. When you open your hand, you satisfy the hunger and thirst of every living thing. The LORD is righteous in everything he does; he is filled with kindness. Psalm 145:13-17
God provides--we don't need to worry...just trust God. The person who follows God's plan...lives to please God...is a righteous person. That person shows God's love and helps others--according to God's promises.
    - He (a righteous man) does not exploit the poor, but instead is fair to debtors and does not rob them. He gives food to the hungry and provides clothes for the needy. Ezekiel 18:7
Are you on the giving or receiving end of God's promise to take care of others? No burden...no worries.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Help us not to worry...but to trust You to take care of us. Please show us ways to share Your love with others that they would have no worries.

Daily Bible Reading: Leviticus 1-4

It is Fat Tuesday--get the "fat" out of your house.

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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Who is First...Money or God?

Jesus' classic words from The Sermon on the Mount...
No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money. Matthew 6:24

Have you ever tried to please two very different people at the same time...or tried to even just decide which of two routes to drive in stressful busy traffic? Hard choices to make. That's what it is like to try to please two masters--God and money.

Roll the dice to win...money? Or depend on the Rock--Jesus?

In the Old Testament Moses was given guidance for the Israelites.
    - Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

A good passage that demonstrates loving God, not money is found in the book of Job. Submit--serve--God and don't focus your life or even lust after money. That is just what Jesus was teaching.
    - Submit to God, and you will have peace; then things will go well for you. Listen to his instructions, and store them in your heart. If you return to the Almighty, you will be restored--so clean up your life. If you give up your lust for money and throw your precious gold into the river, the Almighty himself will be your treasure. He will be your precious silver! Then you will take delight in the Almighty and look up to God. Job 22:21-26
Clean up your life. Such a direct message. Be devoted to God...not to money. Put God first in your life. Can you do that?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Give us grace, Lord, that we would focus on You and serve You alone--and not be distracted by the worldly things of this world that all revolve around money. Bless Julia on her birthday, today and always, that she would seek and serve You...even as a three year old.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 39-40

HAPPY 3rd BIRTHDAY SWEET JULIA!

We Love You--God Bless You!!!

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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Is Your Body Filed With Light or Darkness?

More of Jesus' teachings from The Sermon on the Mount...

Your eye is a lamp that provides light for your body. When your eye is good, your whole body is filled with light. But when your eye is bad, your whole body is filled with darkness. And if the light you think you have is actually darkness, how deep that darkness is! Matthew 6:22-23

Have you ever noticed how some people's eyes just shine and glimmer--especially joyful children? Then some other people's eyes are gloomy--vacant--yes, dark. No light--no hope. Jesus did not seem to draw His specific teaching from Old Testament scripture, but here is a "light" example from Proverbs to guide our lives.
     - The life of the godly is full of light and joy, but the light of the wicked will be snuffed out. Proverbs 13:9

We have a choice...walk in darkness or in the light. Jesus is a beacon--a lighthouse showing us the way to live.
    - The people who walk in darkness will see a great light. For those who live in a land of deep darkness, a light will shine. Isaiah 9:2.  Jesus is that light.
     - Jesus spoke to the people once more and said, "I am the light of the world. If you follow me, you won't have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life." John 8:12

Let Him shine in your life.

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Let your light shine in and though us...that we would be a beacon for others. "For You light my lamp; You, LORD my God, illumine my darkness." Psalm 18:28 (NASB)

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 36-38

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What Do You Treasure?

Jesus' classic words from The Sermon on the Mount...

Don't store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21

Will the moth eat your treasure?

What do you treasure? Gold, silver, money, luxury homes, shoes, designer clothes, cars, boats, motorcycles or motor homes? Jesus didn't use specific scripture from the Old Testament but the concept is there.
    - My son, keep my words and treasure my commandments within you. Proverbs 7:1 (NASB)
    - Better is a little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and turmoil with it. Proverbs 15:16 (NASB)
    - Don't wear yourself out trying to get rich. Be wise enough to know when to quit. In the blink of an eye wealth disappears, for it will sprout wings and fly away like an eagle. Proverbs 23:4-5
     - And I will make an everlasting covenant with them: I will never stop doing good for them. I will put a desire in their hearts to worship me, and they will never leave me. Jeremiah 32:40 

In my opinion, the best advice in the Old Testament concerning treasure is about wisdom--found in Proverbs.

     - My child, listen to what I say, and treasure my commands. Tune your ears to wisdom, and concentrate on understanding. Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God. For the LORD grants wisdom! From his mouth come knowledge and understanding. He grants a treasure of common sense to the honest. He is a shield to those who walk with integrity. He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. Then you will understand what is right, just, and fair, and you will find the right way to go. For wisdom will enter your heart, and knowledge will fill you with joy. Wise choices will watch over you. Understanding will keep you safe. Proverbs 2:1-11 

I certainly value and treasure wisdom and understanding--above gold, a fancy house or designer clothes--above anything except the love of God. How about you---what do you treasure?  

     - May he grant your heart's desires and make all your plans succeed. Psalm 20:4

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Please grant wisdom and understanding to me, to my family, friends and neighbors. With wisdom please also help us all to make good decisions---this is the desire of my heart -- and my frequent prayer. Thank You--for always hearing my prayers and valuing relationships with people--with me. That is my treasure, too--relationships. I'll admit I'm struggling with a couple of relationships now--help me Lord to mend fences and renew our bonds. 

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 33-35

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

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Privately Fast

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
And when you fast, don't make it obvious, as the hypocrites do, for they try to look miserable and disheveled so people will admire them for their fasting. I tell you the truth, that is the only reward they will ever get. But when you fast, comb your hair and wash your face. Then no one will notice that you are fasting, except your Father, who knows what you do in private. And your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. Matthew 6:16-18

Have You Got Forgiveness?

Jesus' classic words from The Sermon on the Mount...
If you forgive those who sin against you, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you refuse to forgive others, your Father will not forgive your sins. Matthew 6:14-15

Has anyone "sinned" against you?Have they offended you so deeply that you just can't forgive them? How do you think God feels about your sins against Him? Yet He is willing to forgive all--yes ALL--your sins if you just ask. One caveat is noted in Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Forgive others. God won't forgive your sin until you or give others. Jesus just taught that same principle in what we call The Lord's Prayer. This is a new concept--one that I did not find in the Old Testament.
     - ...and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
There is an Old Testament passage that could be used to include "forgiveness" of others. Solomon wrote about this in Proverbs.
     - Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, When it is in your power to do it. Proverbs 3:27 (NASB)

Forgiveness is a "good" thing--don't keep it to yourself. Freely give it to others...it will be liberating to you both. I just heard an excellent example of "How To Forgive" in a sermon by Pastor Bob Luhn. He suggested praying out loud...

Lord,  I choose to forgive ________ from my heart. 

Choice is the key to our thoughts, words and actions in all of life. Choose wisely. This prayer will release bitterness from your heart--and heal your relationship with another person...and thus heal your relationship with God. God knows you...He knows your heart. Allow Him to set you free from your sins by forgiving others who have offended you.
     - "They will not teach again, each man his neighbor and each man his brother, saying, 'Know the LORD,' for they will all know Me, from the least of them to the greatest of them," declares the LORD, "for I will forgive their iniquity, and their sin I will remember no more." Jeremiah 31:34 (NASB)

The Cross from Medjugorje - shows Jesus devotion and submission--His willingness to die for our sins. 
Of course the first step is knowing Jesus as Lord of your life. Is He your Messiah...your Savior? Ask Him to come into your life...to forgive you from your sins because His death on the cross was for that--the forgiveness of sins of all mankind.
     - For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16
That forgiveness and eternal life is gift from God the Father--you just have to believe to receive that initial forgiveness. Then life goes on...forgive others and you will be forgiven. We're human...we keep on sinning--but hopefully less as we learn more about Jesus and become more like Him. Have you got His forgiveness?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Forgive us our debts as we forgive those who sin against us.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 28-29

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

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Lord's Prayer

Jesus' classic words from The Sermon on the Mount...
Pray like this: Our Father in heaven, may your name be kept holy. May your Kingdom come soon. May your will be done on earth, as it is in heaven. Give us today the food we need, and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us. And don't let us yield to temptation, but rescue us from the evil one. Matthew 6:9-13

In the traditional King James Version...
After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as [it is] in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen. Matthew 6:9-13 (KJV)

This has got to be one of Jesus' most important teachings. Books have been written about this prayer--but here are a few thoughts to consider. Jesus says...pray...talk to God the Father this way...
You are holy--that is pure--worthy of praise. He is telling His followers--and us--who have so much to learn...that the Heavenly Father is just that...heavenly---our spiritual Father. The book of Daniel  mentions God's heavenly eternal Kingdom.
     - After this time had passed, I, Nebuchadnezzar, looked up to heaven. My sanity returned, and I praised and worshiped the Most High and honored the one who lives forever. His rule is everlasting, and his kingdom is eternal. Daniel 4:34
     - So remember this and keep it firmly in mind: The LORD is God both in heaven and on earth, and there is no other.  Deuteronomy 4:39

Jesus taught over and over that the Kingdom of God...the Kingdom of Heaven was at hand as noted in Matthew 3:2; Matthew 7:21; Matthew 8:11; Matthew 13:33; Matthew 25:1; Revelation 11:15 and other places. God's Kingdom is on earth and in Heaven. That is amazing. As members of God's family we don't have to wait until we die to be part of God's Kingdom--it is ours here and now--forever. Additionally, Jesus tells us to "seek first the Kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33). Jesus taught that we should ask God to help us not give in to temptation. Good point--I know that I need God's help for that---how about you?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...As we seek Your Kingdom may we be strengthened by Your love and grace knowing that You care enough about us to teach us a basic skill--prayer. The Kingdom of God is here--open our eyes, hearts and mind to follow God's will daily. Forgive us our sins and give us our spiritual bread every day--just as You taught in this prayer. Amen--so be it.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 25-27

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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Pray Alone With God

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
When you pray, don't be like the hypocrites who love to pray publicly on street corners and in the synagogues where everyone can see them. I tell you the truth, that is all the reward they will ever get. But when you pray, go away by yourself, shut the door behind you, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. When you pray, don't babble on and on as people of other religions do. They think their prayers are answered merely by repeating their words again and again. Don't be like them, for your Father knows exactly what you need even before you ask him! Matthew 6:5-8

Close the door--be alone with God when you pray. Jesus was teaching His followers to do the same thing that Elisha had done when the son of the Shunem woman died.
     - When Elisha arrived, the child was indeed dead, lying there on the prophet's bed. He went in alone and shut the door behind him and prayed to the LORD. 2 Kings 4:32-33
Elsha's prayer was effective--the boy came back to life. Would that have happened if Elisha had stood on the street corner and prayed? Where do you feel closest to God when you pray? Where have you prayed your most effective prayers?

God sees everything. In the book of Job we are reminded of the equality with which God sees and treats all people.
    - He (God) doesn't care how great a person may be, and he pays no more attention to the rich than to the poor. He made them all. In a moment they die. In the middle of the night they pass away; the mighty are removed without human hand. For God watches how people live; he sees everything they do. No darkness is thick enough to hide the wicked from his eyes. Job 34:19-22

I like that God doesn't want us to babble on and on. We should stand in awe of Him.
    - As you enter the house of God, keep your ears open and your mouth shut. It is evil to make mindless  offerings to God. Don't make rash promises, and don't be hasty in bringing matters before God. After all, God is in heaven, and you are here on earth. So let your words be few. Too much activity gives you restless dreams; too many words make you a fool. Ecclesiastes 5:1-3
Jesus recognized that His followers needed to be taught not to be hypocritical--but to honor God with their prayers. Can you be alone with God--close the door and pray to Him?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Like David...I do not spend time with liars or go along with hypocrites. Psalm 26:4. I want to honor You alone, Lord God, with honest, heartfelt prayers.   

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 22-24

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Give Privately

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
Watch out! Don't do your good deeds publicly, to be admired by others, for you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. But when you give to someone in need, don't let your left hand know what your right hand is doing. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you.  Matthew 6:1-4

God doesn't need glasses. The Father sees everything--so give in secret so that only you know and He knows. He will remember...if you give privately. People in the Old Testament reportedly gave freely and generously--but possibly not privately. They were encouraged to seek God because He will remember their actions ...forever.
     - They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor. Psalm 112:9
     - Share your food with the hungry, and give shelter to the homeless. Give clothes to those who need them, and do not hide from relatives who need your help. Isaiah 58:7
Watch your motives...
     - I know, my God, that you examine our hearts and rejoice when you find integrity there. You know I have done all this with good motives, and I have watched your people offer their gifts willingly and joyously. 1 Chronicles 29:17
     - People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. Proverbs 16:2
     - Put me on trial, LORD, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. Psalm 26:2
The Lord judges...and rewards
     - "In due season God will judge everyone, both good and bad, for all their deeds." Ecclesiastes 3:17
     - But I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve. Jeremiah 17:10

Obedience is what the Lord wants...and will reward.
     - Praise the LORD! How joyful are those who fear the LORD and delight in obeying his commands. Their children will be successful everywhere; an entire generation of godly people will be blessed. They themselves will be wealthy, and their good deeds will last forever. Light shines in the darkness for the godly. They are generous, compassionate, and righteous. Psalm 112:1-4

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...I trust You with my life and I ask You to help me be intentionally obedient to You in all ways...even my very thoughts,words, and actions. May my life bring You glory as I seek first Your Kingdom.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 19-21

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

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Love Your Enemies - Love One Another

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have heard the law that says, 'Love your neighbor' and hate your enemy. But I say, love your enemies! Pray for those who persecute you! In that way, you will be acting as true children of your Father in heaven. For he gives his sunlight to both the evil and the good, and he sends rain on the just and the unjust alike. If you love only those who love you, what reward is there for that? Even corrupt tax collectors do that much. If you are kind only to your friends, how are you different from anyone else? Even pagans do that. But you are to be perfect, even as your Father in heaven is perfect. Matthew 5:43-48

Jesus may have been referring to the law as recorded in Leviticus concerning treatment neighbors (fellow Israelites)...and enemies.
  - Do not nurse hatred in your heart for any of your relatives. Confront people directly so you will not be held guilty for their sin. Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against a fellow Israelite, but love your neighbor as yourself. I am the LORD. Leviticus 19:17-18
Additionally,we see this reoccurrence of disobedience towards our Heavenly Father.
    - Are we not all children of the same Father? Are we not all created by the same God? Then why do we betray each other, violating the covenant of our ancestors? Malachi 2:10

Love one another--even in our differences. 

Jesus was giving a new teaching--love your enemies. That was NOT an Old Testament teaching. It goes beyond the "love your neighbor as yourself" instruction. Listen up. New information. Apply that to your life. Who are your"enemies"? Can you love them?

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Thank You for this lesson and Your guidance that all our actions should be loving--going beyond what is expected even of the pagans. How can we just love those who love us? We love and praise You--because You first loved us. Love has to flow into us...before we can love others. Let it be.

Daily Bible Reading: Exodus 16-18

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© 2018 Text and photos by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved. 

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

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An Eye for an Eye?

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have heard the law that says the punishment must match the injury: 'An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.' But I say, do not resist an evil person! If someone slaps you on the right cheek, offer the other cheek also. If you are sued in court and your shirt is taken from you, give your coat, too. If a soldier demands that you carry his gear for a mile, carry it two miles. Give to those who ask, and don't turn away from those who want to borrow. Matthew 5:38-42

Punishment must match the injury.
    - But if there is further injury, the punishment must match the injury: a life for a life, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth, a hand for a hand, a foot for a foot, a burn for a burn, a wound for a wound, a bruise for a bruise. Exodus 21:23-25
     - Anyone who takes another person's life must be put to death. Anyone who kills another person's animal must pay for it in full--a live animal for the animal that was killed. Anyone who injures another person must be dealt with according to the injury inflicted-- a fracture for a fracture, an eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth. Whatever anyone does to injure another person must be paid back in kind. Leviticus 24:17-20

When I was in the third grade I accidentally hit a girl in the face with a tetherball. She turned her face and demanded that I hit her on the other cheek. She had just learned this principle at her church and was so eager to try it out. I just didn't want to do it, but she kept asking me...so I reluctantly slapped that ball towards her. Whack! She was OK with it--but I sure felt guilty. A slap on the face is humiliating--but Jesus says to turn the other cheek. That may humiliate the one who slapped...if they have any compassion at all. If they are truly evil...watch out for a beating. Give...show love, forgiveness, compassion, generosity towards others. That is what Jesus was teaching His followers--just as was taught in the Old Testament.
     - But if there are any poor Israelites in your towns when you arrive in the land the LORD your God is giving you, do not be hard-hearted or tightfisted toward them. Instead, be generous and lend them whatever they need. Deuteronomy 15:7-8
   - Remember, do not charge interest on money you lend him (another Israelite) or make a profit on food you sell him. Leviticus 25:37

Yes is Yes. No is No.

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have also heard that our ancestors were told, 'You must not break your vows; you must carry out the vows you make to the LORD.' But I say, do not make any vows! Do not say, 'By heaven!' because heaven is God's throne. And do not say, 'By the earth!' because the earth is his footstool. And do not say, 'By Jerusalem!' for Jerusalem is the city of the great King. Do not even say, 'By my head!' for you can't turn one hair white or black. Just say a simple, 'Yes, I will,' or 'No, I won't.' Anything beyond this is from the evil one. Matthew 5:33-37

Old Testament scripture that Jesus was referring to was concerning Moses instructions to the leaders of the tribes of Israel.

    - A man who makes a vow to the LORD or makes a pledge under oath must never break it. He must do exactly what he said he would do. Numbers 30:2

It was serious to make a vow--a commitment or covenant. It is still important--and shows integrity and honesty when a person keeps their word. 

God keeps His promises...we should, too. Do you keep your promises, letting your "Yes" mean"Yes" and your "No" mean "No"?                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                         

Prayer ~ Lord Jesus...Help us to keep not only our promises to You...but any promises we make to others, too. May our "Yes" be consistently,intentionally,and definitely "Yes"...as well as our "No" be decidedly and irrevocably "No". May we be known for our integrity and honesty--as a reflection of You.

Is Divorce an Option?

Jesus' words from The Sermon on the Mount...
You have heard the law that says, 'A man can divorce his wife by merely giving her a written notice of divorce.' But I say that a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery. Matthew 5:31-32

Jesus was using scripture found in the Old Testament as given to Moses detailing how the Israelites were to live under God's laws and commands. Obedience was the key. This passage deals with divorce.
     - When a man hath taken a wife, and married her, and it come to pass that she find no favour in his eyes, because he hath found some uncleanness in her: then let him write her a bill of divorcement, and give it in her hand, and send her out of his house. And when she is departed out of his house, she may go and be another man's wife. And if the latter husband hate her, and write her a bill of divorcement, and giveth it in her hand, and sendeth her out of his house; or if the latter husband die, which took her to be his wife; Her former husband, which sent her away, may not take her again to be his wife, after that she is defiled; for that is abomination before the LORD: and thou shalt not cause the land to sin, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance. Deuteronomy 24:1-4

Divorce is still a common occurrence in society in most countries of the world today! According to studies on several websites (Goggle/Bing divorce rates for yourself) the divorce rate here in the United States NOT at the 50% level and rising as we all have been told for many years. It is declining. That should be encouraging to all married couples--especially those who have married for the first time after age 28, those with higher education, those with children and those who have a belief in God. Jesus told His followers right up front--a man who divorces his wife, unless she has been unfaithful, causes her to commit adultery. And anyone who marries a divorced woman also commits adultery. Adultery is one of those big sins listed in the Ten Commandments...and in verses just prior to  this in His Sermon on the Mount. Adultery's punishment was death by stoning.
    - And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death. Leviticus 20:10
Death by stoning or being sent to hell...either way adultery was a serious sin--an offense to God. Do you take your marriage vows..."until death do us part" seriously? I do. There have been times that both my humbly and I have wanted to "throw in the towel" but we'e stuck it out. Commitment--we've made it our goal. God has promised to never leave us or forsake us...and we have promised to never leave or forsake each other or God. It has worked for over 45 years.