Are You Doing What God Wants You to Do?

New Testament:

Jesus replied, "'You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.'" Matthew 22:37

Old Testament:

And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your strength. Deuteronomy 6:5

Are you like the butterfly...flitting from plant to plant?
Or are you seeking God and what He wants you to do?

 Are you doing what God wants you to do? You might just ask…what is it that God wants me to do? How do I show “Loving the Lord”?

Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the LORD require of you But to do justice, to love kindness, And to walk humbly with your God? Micah 6:8 NASB

[From the story of the Good Samaritan] And he (the lawyer) said, "He (the Good Samaritan) who showed mercy on him." Then Jesus said to him, "Go and do likewise." Luke 10:37 NKJV

But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:8-9 NASB

Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit. Matthew 28:19

God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3

It is time…for the time is near. There is no better time than right now…to listen and obey. Repent. Repentance and returning to the Lord is what Lent is about. Focus on Jesus and what He has done for you—that will bring you to turn to Him. Which part are you having trouble doing…listening… obeying…or repenting? I think the key is found in Micah 6:8…walk humbly. If we walk with God…putting Him first and doing things His way then all these other things will fall into place…listen, obey, repent…and we’ll make disciples—bring others to the Lord—that none would perish. I’m sure that is your heart’s desire…that no one would perish. That is what I want…for heaven to be full…and no more people be headed for hell—that lake of fire created for the Devil.

Prayer ~ Lord God, thank you for your patience that no one would perish. I couldn’t bear to think that someone I know would actually burn in hell because I didn’t tell them about You. Time is near. Help me to listen, obey and share You with others…to do what You want me to do.

Daily Bible Reading: March 5 – Numbers 23-25

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Focus and Think

And now, dear brothers and sisters, one final thing. Fix your thoughts on what is true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable. Think about things that are excellent and worthy of praise. Philippians 4:8 

Are you floating off into the sunrise...?
Or are you focusing on God and thinking praises?
Can you do both?

Think. Thinking is a good thing, usually. Our minds keep on working all the time we’re awake and actually while we sleep, too. It is up to us to control what we think about. To be positive and productive we need to think about good stuff and not to dwell on the bad things in life. Jesus challenged people to “think.” Here are some examples:

-    Do not think that I came to abolish the Law or the Prophets; I did not come to abolish but to fulfill. Matthew 5:17

-    Do not think that I came to bring peace on the earth; I did not come to bring peace, but a sword. Matthew 10:34

-   What do you think? If any man has a hundred sheep, and one of them has gone astray, does he not leave the ninety-nine on the mountains and go and search for the one that is straying? Matthew 18:12

-   But what do you think? A man had two sons, and he came to the first and said, 'Son, go work today in the vineyard.' Matthew 21:28 (Read the passage for the rest of the story.)

-   What do you think about the Christ, whose son is He?" They said to Him, "The son of David." Matthew 22: 42 (What do you think about their answer?)

-    For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:44

From the Old Testament comes a scripture that echoes Jesus’ words to the Pharisees.

Think again, you fools! When will you finally catch on? Psalm 94:8

Jesus wants us to think about Him. He wants us to reason and consider…not just be entertained by stuff around us and to wander aimlessly about. Paul directed the people of Corinth to give up childish ways. 

When I was a child, I used to speak like a child, think like a child, reason like a child; when I became a man, I did away with childish things 1 Corinthians 13:11.

That is where we’re at…put away kid stuff and concentrate, think, on the important things of life, like pleasing God and training your children in the right way to live. James writes a challenge in James 4:5…Or do you think that the Scripture speaks to no purpose: "He jealously desires the Spirit which He has made to dwell in us"? James 4:5

Listen up and think. 

Prayer ~ Lord God, help us to focus on You and to think. To think good thoughts, things that are…true, and honorable, and right, and pure, and lovely, and admirable.

(Revised from December 16, 2013 Banquet With The King blog)

Daily Bible Reading: March 4 – Numbers 21-22

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Don’t Be Shaken

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

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

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

There is so much hype—almost to the point of hysteria--on YouTube and in Christian circles now about the Lord’s eminent return. Be careful. Does the person prophesying believe in Jesus as their Savior? That alone does not give them the truth about Jesus. Read your Bible—really study it for yourself. Consider Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 24, including the following verse concerning His return. But of that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone. Matthew 24:36. The Father alone knows. We just have to trust Him. No one knows or can tell us…the rapture will be with the next blood moon…or at the next Feast of Tabernacles. We are told by Jesus to be ready. For this reason you also must be ready; for the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not think He will. Matthew 24:44. 

What will you be doing when Jesus returns? That thought has got me to thinking that I need to be sure that whatever I’m doing, it is honorable—to do only things that are worthy of the Lord—continually.

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

(From June 16, 2015 Banquet With The King blog)

Daily Bible Reading: March 3 – Numbers 18-20

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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What Really Matters

I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ's return. May you always be filled with the fruit of your salvation--the righteous character produced in your life by Jesus Christ--for this will bring much glory and praise to God. Philippians 1:9-11

Sheep in Israel

Are you looking for lost sheep...or are you one?

Each day it is important to be doing what really matters. Doing the things that matter to God should make a difference in our lives…if we care about pleasing God. I do. I want to live to please Him. Over a lifetime what does it really matter how many movies I’ve watched, sporting events I’ve attended, or how many designer clothes I've accumulated. Does it matter? Not really. Those aren’t things I’ll be taking to heaven…or even sharing with others here. Jesus told us to…Seek first His righteousness…. Initially when He sent out His disciples He gave them the commission…

Jesus sent out the twelve apostles with these instructions: "Don't go to the Gentiles or the Samaritans, but only to the people of Israel--God's lost sheep. Go and announce to them that the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Heal the sick, raise the dead, cure those with leprosy, and cast out demons. Give as freely as you have received! Matthew 10:5-8

So we too are to “go to the lost sheep” and encourage them with the hope of Jesus. That is what really matters. The Kingdom of Heaven is near.

The Old Testament gives a prophetic scripture in Ezekiel.

For thus says the Lord GOD, "Behold, I Myself will search for My sheep and seek them out. "As a shepherd cares for his herd in the day when he is among his scattered sheep, so I will care for My sheep and will deliver them from all the places to which they were scattered on a cloudy and gloomy day. "I will bring them out from the peoples and gather them from the countries and bring them to their own land; and I will feed them on the mountains of Israel, by the streams, and in all the inhabited places of the land. "I will feed them in a good pasture, and their grazing ground will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down on good grazing ground and feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. "I will feed My flock and I will lead them to rest," declares the Lord GOD. "I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken and strengthen the sick; but the fat and the strong I will destroy. I will feed them with judgment.” Ezekiel 34:11-16 NASB

What really matters to you?

Prayer ~ Lord, may I always seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness. That is what really matters to me.

Daily Bible Reading: March 2 – Numbers 16-17

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. If we are sick…like I am right now with a cold…it is good to feed that cold…and starve a fever.

Here’s a sore throat remedy that my daughter sent to me. It does help miraculously…and with a reduced cough and throat irritation, I actually feel like eating.

All Natural Throat Soothing Syrup

To one teaspoon of honey add one drop each of Orange, Lemon, Frankincense and Peppermint Essential Oils. I stirred it up with a toothpick and initially divided it between my husband and me. Take as needed.

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Waiting…Hopefully

And we believers also groan, even though we have the Holy Spirit within us as a foretaste of future glory, for we long for our bodies to be released from sin and suffering. We, too, wait with eager hope for the day when God will give us our full rights as his adopted children, including the new bodies he has promised us. Romans 8:23

Hope. We long for the day when Christ returns…calls us home. Hopefully that will be in the Rapture…soon. But the key in waiting is to continue to have HOPE…and patience. God’s timing is not our timing. I remember reading The Late Great Planet Earth in the early 1970’s and I was so sure that Christ would return in my lifetime. Funny thing is…lots of people have had that same hope for centuries. But with the nation of Israel back in the land of Palestine…the Promised Land…things are prophetically coming together for Christ’s return. I hopefully wait and watch the sky…listening for that call of the shofar horn. The salvation is for the Jews…but God has blessed the Gentiles, too. I give glory to God for that…for His love and the hope that He provides. Be encouraged and encourage others is the message that we read in the New Testament.

Such things were written in the Scriptures long ago to teach us. And the Scriptures give us hope and encouragement as we wait patiently for God's promises to be fulfilled. ... Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory. Remember that Christ came as a servant to the Jews to show that God is true to the promises he made to their ancestors. He also came so that the Gentiles might give glory to God for his mercies to them. That is what the psalmist meant when he wrote: "For this, I will praise you among the Gentiles; I will sing praises to your name." Romans 15:4, 7-9

Hope is part of the Old Testament as well.

Let all that I am wait quietly before God, for my hope is in him. Psalm 62:5

And so we wait…patiently and quietly for our Savior to call us home. Are you feeling hopeful? Is Jesus your Messiah? Trust in Him.

Prayer ~ I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit. Romans 15:13.

Daily Bible Reading: March 1 – Numbers 14-15; Psalm 90

Purium - What does this Jewish Holiday mean to you?

© 2018 by Mickey M. Hunacek. All rights reserved.

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

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Is Time an Issue?

But do not let this one fact escape your notice, beloved, that with the Lord one day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day. The Lord is not slow about His promise, as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance. But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, in which the heavens will pass away with a roar and the elements will be destroyed with intense heat, and the earth and its works will be burned up. 2 Peter 3:8-10

God is patient with everyone. He lets us decide if we want to “repent” and turn back to Him…or not...during Lent or anytime. He is a real gentleman—not forcing Himself or His ideas on anyone. He’s in no rush—time isn’t important. Well...an end of time will come for each person with their death or at the Rapture, when the Lord calls His church home, so everyone must decide by then.

God’s grace covers all our sins through Jesus’ sacrifice for us.

Obviously, the law applies to those to whom it was given, for its purpose is to keep people from having excuses, and to show that the entire world is guilty before God. For no one can ever be made right with God by doing what the law commands. The law simply shows us how sinful we are. But now God has shown us a way to be made right with him without keeping the requirements of the law, as was promised in the writings of Moses and the prophets long ago. We are made right with God by placing our faith in Jesus Christ. And this is true for everyone who believes, no matter who we are. For everyone has sinned; we all fall short of God's glorious standard. Yet God, with undeserved kindness, declares that we are righteous. He did this through Christ Jesus when he freed us from the penalty for our sins. For God presented Jesus as the sacrifice for sin. People are made right with God when they believe that Jesus sacrificed his life, shedding his blood. This sacrifice shows that God was being fair when he held back and did not punish those who sinned in times past, for he was looking ahead and including them in what he would do in this present time. God did this to demonstrate his righteousness, for he himself is fair and just, and he declares sinners to be right in his sight when they believe in Jesus. Romans 3:19-26

All have sinned. Pretty straightforward. No one is without sin. What are you doing about that?

We’ve all heard the one day as a thousand…and a thousand years as one day, but is it just related to creation time period? I guess not. Here in this passage it is talking about “the day of the Lord” when Jesus Christ returns for the final time. The earth and sky will be burned up—life as we know it will be over. Those who don’t choose Christ— or choose not to repent—will perish. Where do you stand with the Lord?

Prayer ~ Holy Spirit, give me grace to continually have a repentant heart. I am so thankful that God is patient with me. Help me to always be ready…ready for Christ’s return and ready to give an answer for the hope that I have. May I  sanctify Christ as Lord in my heart, always being ready to make a defense to everyone who asks me to give an account for the hope that is in me, yet with gentleness and reverence…. 1 Peter 3:15

Revised from October 17, 2015 Banquet With The King blog.

Daily Bible Reading: February 28 – Numbers 11-13

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© 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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Run in Obedience…to The Father

However, if you do not listen to me or obey all these commands, and if you break my covenant by rejecting my decrees, treating my regulations with contempt, and refusing to obey my commands, I will punish you. I will bring sudden terrors upon you—wasting diseases and burning fevers that will cause your eyes to fail and your life to ebb away. You will plant your crops in vain because your enemies will eat them. I will turn against you, and you will be defeated by your enemies. Those who hate you will rule over you, and you will run even when no one is chasing you! Leviticus 26:14-17

Jesus said…If you love Me, you will keep My commandments. John 14:15 NASB. He is repeating what was said throughout the Old Testament. Keep God’s commandments. We are told that at least 113 times in the New American Standard Bible translation. Obey…keep God’s commandments.

Know therefore that the LORD your God, He is God, the faithful God, who keeps His covenant and His lovingkindness to a thousandth generation with those who love Him and keep His commandments…. Deuteronomy 7:9 NASB

Serve only the LORD your God and fear him alone. Obey his commands, listen to his voice, and cling to him. Deuteronomy 13:4

God blesses the one who reads the words of this prophecy to the church, and he blesses all who listen to its message and obey what it says, for the time is near. Revelation 1:3 NLT

If…if…I will…I will…I will. God has a plan set out before the Israelites. If they would just listen…and obey. If not they could count on disaster from the hand of God. Punishment. Terror. Disease. Fevers. Stolen crops. Defeat. Worst of all is that God Himself will turn against them. No wonder He says that they will run even when no one is chasing them. Such fear.

Would more laws motivate them to listen and obey? There were so many laws assigned by God that they must have been just totally overwhelmed at this point. The oppressive slave drivers in Egypt must have whipped them into obedience…and now God was just giving them rules to follow. They had choices to make. If you obey…then I will be your God and bless you. If you don’t obey…expect punishment.

Is this guy chasing you? Alligator at Charleston Museum.

Can we expect any less? Yes. We are under God’s grace. His unmerited favor. How blessed we are—to have Jesus pay for our sins, but we are still expected to live a life of holiness--obedience. God wants us to respect Him by showing our obedience to Him and love to others. That way we will never have to run without being chased…unless we run just for exercise. The time is near…are you running to God or away from Him?

Prayer ~ Lord God, as Your child, I am listening to You and trying to do as You say, so I will have a long, good life. You are teaching me wisdom's ways and leading me in straight paths. When I walk, I won't be held back; when I run, I won't stumble. I am taking hold of Your instructions and I won't let them go. I guard them, for they are the key to life. Proverbs 4:10-13.

Daily Bible Reading: February 27 – Numbers 8-10

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© 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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Return to My Father's Home

Return to My Father’s Home

Then Jacob awoke from his sleep and said, "Surely the LORD is in this place, and I wasn't even aware of it!" But he was also afraid and said, "What an awesome place this is! It is none other than the house of God, the very gateway to heaven!" The next morning Jacob got up very early. He took the stone he had rested his head against, and he set it upright as a memorial pillar. Then he poured olive oil over it. He named that place Bethel (which means "house of God"), although it was previously called Luz. Then Jacob made this vow: "If God will indeed be with me and protect me on this journey, and if he will provide me with food and clothing, and if I return safely to my father's home, then the LORD will certainly be my God. Genesis 28:16-21

Franklin D. Roosevelt's home in New York State
Will our home in heaven be like this?

Remember when Jesus was telling the parable of the Prodigal Sons, the younger son returned to his father’s house? Is that story reminiscent this scripture of Jacob’s travels to find his wife Rachel? Jacob had just had a dream of a stairway to heaven. He was talking about returning to his father’s home. Returning home. 

That is what we all need to do during this Lenten season. Return to the home of our Father—our heavenly Father. He is waiting for us…like that Father in the parable—running towards us with open arms. Heaven is our Father’s home—His Kingdom…and we don’t have to wait until we die to enter His Kingdom. It happens when we recognize Jesus as God’s Son—the Messiah and accept Him as our Savior. He is the Good News.

You won't be able to say, 'Here it is!' or 'It's over there!' For the Kingdom of God is already among you. Luke 17:21

"The time promised by God has come at last!" he (Jesus) announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!" Mark 1:15

There it is…repent. Turn around—leave the sins behind. Return home to your Father’s house. Is there something in your life from which you need to turn and head for your Father’s home—into His waiting arms?

Prayer ~ O LORD, you have examined my heart and know everything about me. You know when I sit down or stand up. You know my thoughts even when I'm far away. You see me when I travel and when I rest at home. You know everything I do. You know what I am going to say even before I say it, LORD. You go before me and follow me. You place your hand of blessing on my head. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me, too great for me to understand! I can never escape from your Spirit! I can never get away from your presence! If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I go down to the grave, you are there. If I ride the wings of the morning, if I dwell by the farthest oceans, even there your hand will guide me, and your strength will support me. Psalm 139:1-10. You are an awesome God. You are my God. I am running to You. Thank you for being there with open arms.

Daily Bible Reading: February 26 – Numbers 7

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© 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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Do You Need a Doctor?

Later, Levi held a banquet in his home with Jesus as the guest of honor. Many of Levi's fellow tax collectors and other guests also ate with them. But the Pharisees and their teachers of religious law complained bitterly to Jesus' disciples, "Why do you eat and drink with such scum?" Jesus answered them, "Healthy people don't need a doctor—sick people do. I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners and need to repent." Luke 5:29-32

Reenactment - Jesus and His Disciples

Jesus said…Healthy people don't need a doctor—sick people do. Do you need a doctor? What kind of doctor? A physician to heal your body? A psychologist for your mental stability? Or a specialist—like Jesus—for your spiritual health?

Jesus was the great physician. He could and did it all. He healed the blind and lame (Matthew 15:30), cured the demon possessed (Matthew 8:16) and offered eternal life to everyone who believes (John 5:24). Do you need a doctor…or do you need more of Jesus in your life? How do you get more of Jesus? Pray that the Holy Spirit will reveal more of Jesus and anoint your life with a deeper understanding. Then read God’s Word expecting to receive a blessing, wisdom and understanding. Does that seem too simple to do? Well—if you seek Jesus with all of your heart, you will find Him.

-          - But from there you will seek the LORD your God, and you will find Him if you search for Him with all your heart and all your soul. When you are in distress and all these things have come upon you, in the latter days you will return to the LORD your God and listen to His voice. For the LORD your God is a compassionate God; He will not fail you nor destroy you nor forget the covenant with your fathers which He swore to them. Deuteronomy 4:29-31 NASB

-          - Seek the LORD while you can find him. Call on him now while he is near. Isaiah 55:6 NLT

What a great promise…

-          - I love those who love me; and those who diligently seek me will find me. Proverbs 8:17 NASB

Claim that promise…seek the Lord and find Him. He is worth the search…eternally worth it! And when you find Him…like a treasure…share Him with others. Job’s friend counseled him…

-           - If I were you, I would go to God and present my case to him. He does great things too marvelous to understand. He performs countless miracles. Job 5:8-9

God is still in the miracle business. He still loves and cares about people. Seek Him while you can find Him.

Prayer ~ Lord God, I treasure that You have allowed me to “find” You…to see You in all that I do. You provide me with everything I need and more…from parking places, warm clothes during the cold winter, a comfortable home and loving family. I have it all…and You. I look forward to seeing You face to face one day….and throughout eternity. Please continue to bless me, my family and friends and all who read this blog…and especially search for You in Your Word today.

Daily Bible Reading: February 25 – Numbers 5-6

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© 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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Refresh Your Soul

My child, don't lose sight of common sense and discernment. Hang on to them, for they will refresh your soul. They are like jewels on a necklace. Proverbs 3:21-22

Refresh your soul like this butterfly at the Butterfly Wonderland in Scottsdale, Arizona. 

Common sense and discernment—gifts of Wisdom. Common sense is truly a gift to those who have it. It is practical sound judgment and it simply makes life so much easier. Discernment, like understanding, allows a person to see beyond themselves—to understand things that are happening around them or to other people. Discernment actually helps a person to be sensitive to judging other people’s character and actions. That is a useful ability. A real gift that can be refreshing to one’s soul. Common sense and discernment can give a person confidence in themselves—especially as they see the Lord working in their life. Good reason to “hang on to” those traits—to rely on them—to use those gifts from the Lord God—the very giver of Wisdom. Refreshment is good for the soul…especially during Lent.

Do you see yourself having common sense or the quality of discernment? Do you see those qualities in your children or grandchildren? Is it possible to help them develop those qualities? Yes, it begins with prayer. And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in real knowledge and all discernment, so that you may approve the things that are excellent, in order to be sincere and blameless until the day of Christ; having been filled with the fruit of righteousness which comes through Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God. Philippians 1:9-11. Pray for your family that they would have discernment.

Prayer ~ Lord, be gracious to me, my family, friends and neighbors to fill us with common sense and discernment that can only come from and through You. Give us wisdom to use these gifts wisely for You. Refresh our souls.

(Revised from February 2016—sometimes we just need to revisit a subject…and reuse it.)

Daily Bible Reading: February 24 – Numbers 3-4

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© 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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Happy Birthday Blessing, Debbie J.

May God Continue to Bless You with an Abundance of Creativity!

God’s Actions are Final

What do people really get for all their hard work? I have seen the burden God has placed on us all. Yet God has made everything beautiful for its own time. He has planted eternity in the human heart, but even so, people cannot see the whole scope of God's work from beginning to end. So I concluded there is nothing better than to be happy and enjoy ourselves as long as we can. And people should eat and drink and enjoy the fruits of their labor, for these are gifts from God. And I know that whatever God does is final. Nothing can be added to it or taken from it. God's purpose is that people should fear him. What is happening now has happened before, and what will happen in the future has happened before, because God makes the same things happen over and over again.   Ecclesiastics 3:9-15

Whatever God does is final. He is in control—we have choices…but He is in control. Things happen—history repeats itself. What is it you want…a home in heaven? What is your heart’s desire? During this time of Lent we are to focus on God and turn to Him. What He desires is for us to respect Him…to fear Him—to honor Him above all else and not follow our sinful nature. Consider reading chapter eight of the book of Romans.

So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death. The law of Moses was unable to save us because of the weakness of our sinful nature. So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin's control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins. He did this so that the just requirement of the law would be fully satisfied for us, who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit.  Romans 8:1-4

The big question here is…Do you belong to Christ? If so, you have been set free from the power of sin. Alleluia! That is the very word that springs from my heart when I consider what Jesus Christ has done for me—set me free from sin. Alleluia! That home in heaven is looking mighty good. Come quickly Lord.

Prayer ~ Lord God, in Your grace and mercy may we be obedient to Your word…to Your commands—that we would live to please and honor You here on earth…as it will be one day in heaven.

Daily Bible Reading: February 23 – Numbers 1-2

Friday’s Feast at the King’s Table

As usual every Friday is Feast Day—Feasting at the King’s Table. We can’t live on just spiritual food …nor can we live on bread alone. We’ve got to have some good food to eat and drink blessed by our Lord who provides.

It is always good to start the day with breakfast—the meal to “break the fast” and provide nourishment for the day. So what would Jesus have eaten for breakfast? We know that He ate barley bread—since He fed barley bread from five loaves to 5,000 men plus their families …along with some fish. We can’t just buy barley bread in most grocery stores—so if you want barley bread you may have to make it yourself. For a start…how about some Hot Barley Cereal?

Hot Barley Cereal

3/4 cup pearl barley

2 cups water

2 cups fruit juice

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons honey

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Pinch salt

1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 cup chopped toasted walnuts, dates or almonds

Rinse the barley well in a strainer and place in large saucepan with water, fruit juice, brown sugar, honey, cinnamon, and salt. Bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes until barley is almost tender. Add cranberries or raisins and lemon juice and simmer for another 10-25 minutes until mixture is thick and barley is tender. Stir in nuts and serve immediately with milk or light cream.

Store leftovers in the refrigerator up to 3 days.

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© 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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The Kingdom is So Close

One day Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee, and John baptized him in the Jordan River. As Jesus came up out of the water, he saw the heavens splitting apart and the Holy Spirit descending on him like a dove. And a voice from heaven said, "You are my dearly loved Son, and you bring me great joy." The Spirit then compelled Jesus to go into the wilderness, where he was tempted by Satan for forty days. He was out among the wild animals, and angels took care of him. Later on, after John was arrested, Jesus went into Galilee, where he preached God's Good News. "The time promised by God has come at last!" he announced. "The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News!"  Mark 1:9-15

The time promised by God has come at last! The Kingdom of God is near! Repent of your sins and believe the Good News! That was Good News! The Kingdom of God is near…right at hand. This has not changed. The Kingdom of God is still near…right at your fingertips—so close you can reach out and touch it, if you choose to do that. Jesus brought our Heavenly Father great joy…and we can bring great joy to Him, too, as we “repent”…and turn to Him during this time of Lent. It is our choice. Turn. Run to God—His arms are open to receive us. Can you hear His voice…“You are my dearly loved child, and you bring me great joy”?

Prayer ~ Lord God, I hear Your voice calling me...You are my dearly loved child, and you bring me great joy. I hope that I will always bring You joy, honor, and glory—for You are my dearly loved Father.

Daily Bible Reading: February 22 – Leviticus 26-27

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© 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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Covenant Promise

Then God told Noah and his sons, "I hereby confirm my covenant with you and your descendants, and with all the animals that were on the boat with you--the birds, the livestock, and all the wild animals--every living creature on earth. Yes, I am confirming my covenant with you. Never again will floodwaters kill all living creatures; never again will a flood destroy the earth." Then God said, "I am giving you a sign of my covenant with you and with all living creatures, for all generations to come. I have placed my rainbow in the clouds. It is the sign of my covenant with you and with all the earth. When I send clouds over the earth, the rainbow will appear in the clouds, and I will remember my covenant with you and with all living creatures. Never again will the floodwaters destroy all life. When I see the rainbow in the clouds, I will remember the eternal covenant between God and every living creature on earth." Then God said to Noah, "Yes, this rainbow is the sign of the covenant I am confirming with all the creatures on earth."  Genesis 9:8-17

Why is God’s covenant with Noah important to Lent? Who is turning…coming back into a relationship with others? God is clearly stating that He is confirming His covenant with all living creature on the earth—man and animals. Why is this important? God was disappointed in men—they were a rebellious bunch—except for Noah—so He destroyed them all—except for Noah and his family. God changed His mind…He turned back to allow the human race to continue through Noah and his family. It seems that God gave others the chance to “repent” and turn from their wicked ways. Peter tells us that Noah warned the world of God’s righteous judgment.

And God did not spare the ancient world—except for Noah and the seven others in his family. Noah warned the world of God's righteous judgment. So God protected Noah when he destroyed the world of ungodly people with a vast flood. 2 Peter 2:5

People were given the chance to “repent” but they didn’t…and they were destroyed. God promised to never again send a flood to destroy mankind, but what other devastating event could occur to eliminate the wicked and rebellious people today? Obviously the world has once again reached a level of rebellion and disobedience in God’s eyes. How will their destruction come? Are people willing to change their ways any more than the people in Noah’s time were? Do you see that same rebellion in any areas of your life? Are you willing to turn back to God…to repent? Turning to God is what Lent is all about.

Prayer ~ Lord God, If You can turn back…change Your mind…then I certainly can, too. You have shown me a rebellious area in my life and I willingly hand it over to You. I want to think, say and do only things that please You and bring You glory…so please forgive my rebellious attitude, create in me a clean heart—willing to serve and honor You.

Daily Bible Reading: February 21 – Leviticus 24-25

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© 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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Christ Died to Bring You Safely Home

Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit. So he went and preached to the spirits in prison-- those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood. And that water is a picture of baptism, which now saves you, not by removing dirt from your body, but as a response to God from a clean conscience. It is effective because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority. 1 Peter 3:18-22
Christ suffered for our sins once for all time. He never sinned, but he died for sinners to bring you safely home to God. He suffered physical death, but he was raised to life in the Spirit. So he went and preached to the spirits in prison-- those who disobeyed God long ago when God waited patiently while Noah was building his boat. Only eight people were saved from drowning in that terrible flood. And that water is a picture of baptism, which now saves you, not by removing dirt from your body, but as a response to God from a clean conscience. It is effective because of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. Now Christ has gone to heaven. He is seated in the place of honor next to God, and all the angels and authorities and powers accept his authority. 1 Peter 3:18-22  

Home. There is no place like HOME! We've just returned from eleven weeks visiting our family in South Carolina. It was wonderful to see them--and take part in our grandchildren's lives...but it is so good to be HOME! To be safely home—no sleeping on the floor in the airport when there were mechanical problems this time—a nice comfortable motel—but that wasn’t home.

There is no place like home. Our house where we live now is our earthly home and it is probably nothing like the one that Jesus is preparing for us in Heaven. Jesus told His disciples…

Don't let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me. 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 14:1-3

Home—to the Father’s house. The wayward younger son of the rich father in the parable of the Lost Sons (Luke 15) went home to his Father’s house.  Home. That father is said to represent our Heavenly Father—running to us, welcoming us home. When “home” was mentioned in a video at church yesterday I reflected on how I am at HOME with my church family. That goes back to when I first felt that that particular church was HOME about 25 years ago—singing “Alleluia” and standing next to a sweet older lady who had taken us under her wing. Tears were streaming down my cheeks. I was HOME. I am HOME. This is where I need to be…where God wants me to be…and where I am.

Like that young prodigal son have you turned from anything in your life that is telling you to go to the Father? What could be better than repenting of thoughts, words or actions that don’t please God and spending time with the Father?

Prayer ~ Lord – I humbly come before You acknowledging that I am not who You want me to be. I especially don’t always communicate in a pleasing manner with those around me. Help me not to come across as angry—when I’m only trying to be heard above the roar of life. Help me to smile and welcome others as if I were welcoming You, Jesus, for I love that concept of treating everyone like I would treat You. That would really be showing love for others. I look forward to the day when You call us all HOME. Come quickly, Jesus.

Daily Bible Reading: February 20 – Leviticus 22-23

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© 2018 Text and Photos 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

Show Me the Right Road to Follow

A psalm of David. O LORD, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God! Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others. Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow. Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me. All day long I put my hope in you. Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past. Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD. The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way. The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands. Psalm 25:1-10

I’m studying the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15)—from a book The Prodigal God by Timothy Keller—with my study group from church during Lent. The verses from this passage in Psalm 25 are reminiscent…or maybe I should say “predictive” of the Prodigal sons. We all consider the younger son “rebellious” these verses are applicable when considering the son who demanded his inheritance and then ran off to spend it.

Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth…. he shows the proper path to those who go astray.

The older son was also rebellious, but in a subtle, pretentious, self-righteous way that deceives others.

            …disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others….

Jesus brought Psalm 25 message to life in His Lost Sons parable. This is the time of Lent when it is appropriate to turn to God. Then follow the road that the Lord shows you—the straight path that leads to Him.  

Mark out a straight path for your feet; stay on the safe path. Proverbs 4:26

Both brothers needed to be shown a road to follow. How about you…do you need the Lord to show you a road to follow...a path for your life?

Desert trail - on a road near Ely, Neveda 

Prayer ~ Lord God, I give my life to you. I trust in you, my God!

Do not let me be disgraced, or let my enemies rejoice in my defeat. No one who trusts in you will ever be disgraced, but disgrace comes to those who try to deceive others.

Show me the right path, O LORD; point out the road for me to follow.

Lead me by your truth and teach me, for you are the God who saves me.

All day long I put my hope in you.

Remember, O LORD, your compassion and unfailing love, which you have shown from long ages past.

Do not remember the rebellious sins of my youth. Remember me in the light of your unfailing love, for you are merciful, O LORD.

The LORD is good and does what is right; he shows the proper path to those who go astray. He leads the humble in doing right, teaching them his way.

The LORD leads with unfailing love and faithfulness all who keep his covenant and obey his demands May we live a holy life before You—pleasing You in all that we think, say and do.

© 2018 Text and Photos 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